Running With the Kenyans by Adharanand Finn
Published November 20, 2012

Book info
- Title
- Author Adharanand Finn
- Year
- Genres
Thoughts
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book. I run occasionally, but I’m not so obsessed with it that I was convinced I could read a whole book about running. However, that’s not all this was about. Part memoir, part investigation, the book tracks the author’s trip to Kenya, his preparation for a terrifying-sounding marathon, and his findings about what makes people run fast.
With Kenyan’s so very good at running, we get an insight into the bits and pieces that go into making them fast. Whilst it is about genetics and diet and training and barefoot running and so much more, we don’t get bogged down with too much detail. For me, it was a good insight into the science of being fast, without getting too heavy with the technical knowledge.
It was fun reading about some of the names I’ve seen on TV, Mary Keitany and Lornah Kiplagat, and seeing how incredibly shy they are in real life. It was also great to see the journey that everyone went on, how much passion they put into their running, and how simple things can be if you just concentrate on doing what you love. What with that, and a happy ending, I really enjoyed the read.
Rating: Unrated