Running is an excellent way to keep fit, increase stamina, and clear your mind. But let’s face it, running can be tedious, especially if you have been doing it for a while. Sometimes, you can use something extra to push you through a tough workout, and that’s where running audiobooks come in. In this article, we will explore the best running audiobooks that can help you reach your goals.
Why Running Audiobooks Are Your Perfect Workout Companion
Running alone can be dull even for the most dedicated runners. The sound of your own footsteps can be monotonous and the physical demands can be overwhelming. But fear not, because there is a solution that can make your runs more enjoyable and productive – audiobooks! Audiobooks have become an essential ally for runners, providing a great distraction from the physical demands of running. Also, they offer a wide range of benefits that you can leverage to reach your fitness goals.
Benefits of Listening to Audiobooks While Running
One of the biggest benefits of listening to audiobooks while running is that it makes your workouts more enjoyable by keeping your mind occupied while your body takes care of the physical demands. You can get lost in the story and forget about the miles you’re putting in. This is especially helpful during long runs when fatigue can set in and make the run seem never-ending.
Audiobooks can also help you to run for longer by distracting you from fatigue and the monotony of running. Instead of focusing on how tired you are or how much further you have to go, you can focus on the story and let the miles fly by. This can help you to push through mental barriers and run farther than you thought possible.
Moreover, audiobooks can help you to improve your running form and pace by serving as a metronome, ensuring that you maintain a consistent speed. You can match your footfalls to the rhythm of the narrator’s voice, which can help you to run more efficiently and with less effort. This can help you to conserve energy and run faster and farther.
How Audiobooks Can Improve Your Running Performance
The best audiobooks, particularly those written by expert runners, can offer practical tips, advice, and insights that can transform your running game. These audiobooks can help you to develop better training habits, build resilience and overcome obstacles, and ultimately reach your fitness objectives.
For example, audiobooks on running technique can help you to improve your form and reduce your risk of injury. Audiobooks on nutrition can help you to fuel your body properly for optimal performance. And audiobooks on mental toughness can help you to develop the mindset needed to push through tough runs and achieve your goals.
Overall, running audiobooks are a valuable tool for any runner looking to make their workouts more enjoyable and productive. So next time you hit the pavement, consider grabbing an audiobook to accompany you on your journey.
Top Running Audiobooks for Motivation and Inspiration
To help you on your running journey, we’ve put together a list of the best running audiobooks that cover a range of genres. Whether you need real-life examples of runners who have faced and overcome adversity, engaging fictional tales that will take your mind off the miles, or expert guidance on how to become a better runner, there is something for everyone on this list.
Biographies and Memoirs of Elite Runners
Biographies and memoirs of professional runners are a great way to get a glimpse into the lives and training routines of elite runners. You can learn from their habits and experiences, pick up training tips, and understand how they overcome the physical and mental challenges of running.
One great example is “Born to Run” by Christopher McDougall, which follows the author’s journey to discover the secrets of the Tarahumara Indians, a tribe of runners who are known for their incredible endurance. The book also features stories of other elite runners, including Scott Jurek, who has won multiple ultramarathons, and Barefoot Ted, who advocates for barefoot running.
Inspirational Stories of Overcoming Challenges
Everyone loves a good underdog story, and running is no exception. Inspirational stories of runners who faced and overcame adversity can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. Whether it is a memoir of a runner who overcame a severe injury, a story of a runner who went from overweight to marathoner, or a tale of a runner who ran across a continent, these audiobooks will take you on a journey of perseverance and triumph.
“The Long Run” by Catriona Menzies-Pike is a memoir that tells the story of the author’s journey to become a runner after the sudden death of her father. It is a powerful story of grief, healing, and the transformative power of running. Another great option is “Finding Ultra” by Rich Roll, which tells the story of the author’s journey from being an overweight, out-of-shape lawyer to becoming one of the fittest men in the world, thanks to his dedication to running and a plant-based diet.
Expert Advice on Training and Technique
Every runner can benefit from expert guidance on training and technique. Audiobooks written by experienced runners and coaches can offer valuable insights into how to build a training plan, develop good habits, avoid injury, and improve your running form and technique.
“Chi Running” by Danny Dreyer is a great option for runners who want to improve their form and technique. The book teaches the principles of Chi Running, a technique that focuses on using the principles of tai chi to improve running form and reduce the risk of injury. Another great option is “The Art of Running Faster” by Julian Goater and Don Melvin, which offers practical advice on how to improve your speed and endurance through proper training and technique.
With these audiobooks, you’ll have plenty of motivation and inspiration to keep you going on your running journey. Happy listening and happy running!
Best Fiction Audiobooks for Runners
If you prefer to escape into an imaginary world as you run, fiction audiobooks can be a great pick. They can take your mind off the miles, transport you to different times and places, and keep your energy levels up with suspenseful, uplifting, or heartwarming stories.
One great example of a thrilling mystery audiobook is “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins. This book follows the story of Rachel, a woman who takes the same train every day and becomes obsessed with a couple she sees from the train window. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation and must confront her own demons to solve the mystery.
“The Silent Patient”
If you prefer suspenseful stories with a touch of horror, “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides is a great choice. This book follows the story of Alicia, a famous painter who has been convicted of murdering her husband and has not spoken a word since. Theo, a psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence and the events that led to her husband’s death.
Engaging Science Fiction and Fantasy Tales
Science fiction and fantasy audiobooks can take you to another dimension, making your run feel like a fantastic adventure. With vivid descriptions, quirky characters and mind-bending scenarios, these stories can give your mind a good workout while your body runs.
“Ready Player One”
One great example of an engaging science fiction audiobook is “Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline. This book is set in a dystopian future where people escape their bleak reality by entering a virtual reality world called the OASIS. When the creator of the OASIS dies, he leaves behind a game that will give the winner his entire fortune. Wade Watts, a teenage boy, becomes obsessed with winning the game and embarks on a thrilling adventure that will test his skills, his friendships and his loyalty.
“The Night Circus”
If you prefer fantasy stories with a touch of magic, “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern is a great choice. This book follows the story of Celia and Marco, two young magicians who are pitted against each other in a mysterious and magical competition. As they perform their acts in a circus that only appears at night, they fall in love and must find a way to break free from the competition and their manipulative mentors.
Uplifting and Heartwarming Dramas
If you prefer feel-good stories that will keep you motivated to finish strong, uplifting and heartwarming dramas are the way to go. These audiobooks are ideal for long, slow runs or for moments when you need a mental push to overcome the challenges of running.
“The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society”
One great example of an uplifting drama audiobook is “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. This book follows the story of Juliet Ashton, a writer who receives a letter from a man living in Guernsey, a small island that was occupied by the Germans during World War II. As Juliet learns more about the man and his friends, who formed a book club during the war, she becomes fascinated by their stories and decides to visit the island. What she finds there will change her life forever.
“Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine”
If you prefer heartwarming stories with a touch of romance, “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman is a great choice. This book follows the story of Eleanor, a socially awkward woman who lives a solitary life and has a troubled past. When she meets Raymond, an IT guy from her office, her life takes an unexpected turn and she learns that it’s never too late to start living.
How to Choose the Right Audiobook for Your Run
Now that you know highly recommended running audiobooks to consider, it’s time to think about how to select the right one for your workout. Here are some factors to consider:
Matching Your Audiobook to Your Running Pace
When selecting an audiobook, consider your running pace. If you are doing a tempo run or a HIIT workout, fast-paced, exciting audiobooks can help you to maintain your momentum. Conversely, if you are doing an endurance run, a more relaxed, engaging audiobook might be more appropriate.
Selecting Audiobooks Based on Run Duration
The length of your run should also inform your audiobook selection. If you are doing a short workout, you might choose a standalone chapter or an abridged version of a book. However, if you are running for a more extended period, a full-length audiobook can keep you focused and entertained for the entire workout.
Considering Your Personal Interests and Goals
Finally, select an audiobook based on your personal interests and goals. If you are training for a marathon, opt for training-centric audiobooks. Similarly, if you are interested in a particular genre or topic, consider selecting an audiobook related to that topic, as that will keep you engaged and motivated throughout your workout.
In Conclusion
Running audiobooks can be a great running companion, helping you to stay motivated, focused, and entertained during your workouts. With a wide range of genres and topics to choose from, you can customize your audiobook selection to match your personal goals and interests. By choosing a quality audiobook, you can transform your running experience, making your workout more enjoyable and helping you to achieve your fitness objectives.
FAQs
Why should you consider listening to an audiobook while running?
If you aren’t keen on upbeat music, listening to an audiobook can be a relaxing alternative. By listening to an audiobook and running at the same time, you’re maintaining your productivity by completing two things at once. This can be very helpful for those on busy schedules who struggle to fit reading time and exercise in daily.
What are the best audiobooks to listen to while running?
Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, Eat and Run by Scott Jurek, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami, and Finding Ultra by Rich Roll are great choices.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
