Heminsley did not run. Not ever. There was perhaps a shuffle here or there when absolutely necessary, but voluntarily putting on shoes and pounding the pavement? Absolutely not. Until one day, following a terrible breakup, Heminsley began to walk, and before long, with the encouragement of her family, simple walking morphed into running and then into competing in marathons. It’s not all medals and smiles at the finish line, though, as Heminsley humorously tackles the many thorny issues new runners encounter, from chafing to proper sports-bra fit to injury recovery to restroom emergencies. In this account of one woman’s transition from nonrunner to runner, the most important change that takes place is not losing weight or developing a more-fit physique, but rather the mental transition Heminsley makes to believing she is a runner. This is an amusing and inspiring account, sure to provide the gentle push a newbie runner needs. Helpful tips for first-time runners are appended. --Eve Gaus
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
"Wannabe runners can live vicariously through the witty new memoir
Running Like a Girl. It's packed with get-off-your-butt fitspo from the author's journey from 1-miler to marathoner." (
SELF)
“In
Running Like a Girl, Alexandra Heminsley has the courage to abandon her comfort zone and try something truly daunting and intimidating, running a marathon. In doing so she proves to herself that she is better than she thought she was and is capable of going further than she ever thought she ever could. These are invaluable life lessons that transcend running itself. You will enjoy this book—and learn and laugh in the processes—whether you run great distances, modest distances, or not at all.” (Dean Karnazes, runner and New York Times bestselling author)
"If you've ever wept WHY WOULD I WANT TO RUN?, your answer is here." (Caitlin Moran, author of How to Be a Woman)
"The morning after I finished this book, I got my running shoes on. Funny, wise, and inspirational, Alexandra Heminsley manages to make running seem not just possible, but life-affirming, liberating, and fun." (Jojo Moyes, author of Me Before You)
‘This is not simply a book about running – it’s about discipline, self-knowledge and relationships, and should inspire even the most committed couch potato to strap on their trainers and run.’ (
London Daily Mail)
"If the word marathon brings you out in a cold sweat, then this brilliantly titled book is the perfect antidote to running reluctance… It’s an honest and uplifting account, pitching practical know-how... with insights into the personal doubts and daunts of [Heminsley's] own life. There’s nothing preachy or smug about her stance. Instead, it’s an inspiring reminder of what we’re all capable of if we put our minds to it." (
Marie Claire UK)
"A meditation (slash romp) on running, life and love. Penned in her own inimitable style, the book is a funny tread through the raft of body insecurities and mental anguish we all go through when we put on our trainers." (
Grazia)
"[Heminsley's] honesty is winning: her first run is a disaster. . . . Her sketches of her family members are witty. What's truly excellent about this book, though, is its generosity." (
London Observer)
“With humor and honesty,
Elle UK books editor Heminsley details the anxiety and exhilaration she felt when she decided to try running in her mid-30s…For anyone contemplating running, Heminsley provides valuable insight into the mechanics and emotions inherent in the sport.” (
Kirkus)
"[Heminsley is] a Bridget Jones-like writer. [
Running Like a Girl provides] a realistic look at what it takes to transition from couch potato to amateur endurance athlete,flecked with self-deprecating anecdotes." (
The Washington Post)
"The author is so insightful about how difficult it is to commit to a regular running routine--especially if you don't consider yourself a natural athlete. But Heminsley is also very honest about the emotional rewards of running: how much more confident and happy she feels because she does it regularly. Pick up
Running Like a Girl: Notes on Learning to Run for a great read and plenty of practical tips." (
Health Magazine)