Rating: 
Summary: Very useful, but not always well-organized.
Review: I have been running for several months before buying this book. I have learnt a lot from it and recommend it to both amateur and serious runners. However, you must read it all before starting to run. At the point, it will probably necessary to re-read it because there is very much information. The section on injuries, shoes, and nutrition are very well done, too bad they are at the end. The section on racing, although apparently intended for very experienced runners, contains information that is useful for intermediate level (such as preparing for a 10K). If you are not accustomed to American measures, have a conversion table by your side while you read!
Rating:
Summary: A must to complete a marathon or qualify for Boston
Review: I have been running since 1964, competitively and for health. My dream had always been to qualify for the Boston Marathon, but I had failed time and again. I joined the Leukemia Society of America's Team in Training while I was undertaking Galloway's marathon training, and I will tell you this...The only time I ever qualified for Boston, was after I devoted a full five months of following Galloway's marathon advice to the letter. And maybe it was also a little grace from God for helping cure leukemia at the same time.
Rating: 
Summary: Want to know something about running...this is the book!!
Review: I have recommended this book to at least 15 people who have expressed an interest in starting to run or just to learn more about running. I don't know of any other book that covers so clearly and to the point what most runners need and want to know. Everything from starting to run all the way through the marathon. I can't tell you how many times I return to Jeff's book to refresh or re-learn the material. The book is written for any level of runner...there is something for each person. I am always amazed at how I can go back to this book and uncover one more idea/tactic for running that produces a tangible difference. I love the sport of running. Jeff's book, although published some time ago, continues to be the sole source for myself and for those that I come in contact with when the subject is running. As a corporate trainer, I know the importance of having a solid source for workshops I facilitate...get the book and I think you will also understand why I feel so strongly about the power of its content!
Rating:
Summary: Technical and common sense
Review: I just turned 50 and have always been active but I'm new to running. I got this book to get a clue and have been very pleased. You can tell that the author has a world of knowledge but he presents it with plenty of common sense making it easy to read and understand. I have read it through twice and will refer to it again as I progress.
Rating:
Summary: Galloway's Greatest Book
Review: I read Galloway's Book on Running and I found it to be very insightful. Although it is one of his earlier books I believe that it is one of the most helpful in terms of how to train and all of the necessary components that are essential to running well are included. I have read all of his books and have found that it is the best one. I have used the book to help me run 32 marathons including 17 in my home state, and his, New Jersey.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent for beginners
Review: I read this book because I was interested in switching from speed walking which I have done for the past year and a half. I was having trouble with breathing, and got easily discouraged. The information in this book has helped me set up a program that is easy on my body, and possible. I also really enjoyed the fact that he addressed the issue of the psychology of running. I often catch myself now telling myself it isn't possible and realize how much I have hampered my own progress. I rented this book from the library, but it has so much information I can use over and over, that it's worth buying.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent for beginners
Review: I read this book because I was interested in switching from speed walking which I have done for the past year and a half. I was having trouble with breathing, and got easily discouraged. The information in this book has helped me set up a program that is easy on my body, and possible. I also really enjoyed the fact that he addressed the issue of the psychology of running. I often catch myself now telling myself it isn't possible and realize how much I have hampered my own progress. I rented this book from the library, but it has so much information I can use over and over, that it's worth buying.
Rating:
Summary: Distinctive and practical advice for runners who have a life
Review: I used Galloway's advice to comfortably run the Portland (OR) marathon three times. The concepts and suggested training schedules are unlike other plans presented elsewhere but they make eminent sense: if you want to run 26.2 miles you need to build your longest runs (every two weeks) to distances very close to that. But you don't need high weekly mileage. This book is full of sound information and is unique in many ways for those who wish to train for the marathon distance and survive the training without injury to body or family time. I did not experience any significant performance drop-off after the 20 mile mark in any of my marathons. I hope to use the program again for the 1999 Portland Marathon. (Fred Delgado)
Rating:
Summary: Required Reading for Runners
Review: I wish I'd read this book BEFORE my knee injury. Galloway writes as an experienced runner and coach. He provides training programs for most levels of fitness and experience. If you want to run, or continue running without injury, take the time to read this book. The first section of the book, "Starting," provides a brief history of running, then moves into five stages of running development (Beginner, Jogger, Competitor, Athlete, Runner). The second section, "Training," considers the physiology of running, planning a training program (including "running slow in order to run fast"), and keeping a log. This section concludes with an discussion about the need for rest and training programs. The third section, "Racing," talks about how to run faster, how to adjust your pace on the race day, how to handle different lengths of races (these include specific training programs), and how to prepare for a marathon. A final chapter considers issues for the advanced competititve runner. Section four, "Tuning," presents augmentations to a strong running program, including form, stretching & strengthening, running drills, will power, and a chapter on women' running, written by the author's wife. The book continues with shorter sections, on injuries, nutrition and diet, shoes, and age issues. An appendix contains references, a reading list, and race pace charts. The book has an adequate index. If you read Runner's World for a few years, you'll encounter much of this information. But it's more handy in one place. Don't pass on this book, your knees will never forgive you....
Rating:
Summary: Best book I've seen on running
Review: I've looked at quite a few books on running and this is the best general book I've seen. It is ideal for the beginner, which is what I was when this book was recommended to me by friends. The focus is on steady progress while minimizing the risk of injury. If you want to finish your first marathon, this is the book for you. You aren't likely to find a method easier than Galloway's 30 week program with alternating hard and easy weeks. If you want to improve your marathon performance, that's covered too. There is a special chapter on women's running written by Barbara Galloway.
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