The Art of Running: With the Alexander Technique - Softcover

For millions of regular runners, and for many of those new to the sport, physical and mental barriers can stop progress far short of full potential. Too often, an activity which should be pleasurable and fulfilling instead leads to frustration and injury. The Art of Running is based on the proven principles of the Alexander Technique, which encourage good use of the body and greater awareness of the way it functions. Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields show the reader how to achieve and maintain fitness without injury and how to overcome self-imposed limitations to enjoyable and successful training. The authors' perspective on the sport as an art takes them into areas rarely touched on in conventional coaching manuals. A variety of personal accounts and more than 40 carefully selected photographs enhance this practical and inspirational guide.

Malcolm Balk is a qualified Alexander Technique teacher, specialising in working with runners of all standards, and a Level 4 track coach in Montreal, Canada. Andrew Shields is Sport and Fitness Editor of Time Out magazine in London. He has twice been a runner-up in the British Sports Journalism Awards.