5 Best Running Books to Gift This Christmas

Looking for the perfect gift for the runner in your life?

This curated list of running books has you covered, from marathon training guides to breakfast recipes for runners. These picks are packed with inspiration, training tips, and expert advice to motivate and educate runners of all levels.

Whether they’re tackling their first 5K or preparing for an ultra, these thoughtful gifts are sure to delight any runner this holiday season!

1. Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide

Renowned coach Hal Higdon delivers the definitive guide to marathon running in this classic book. Covering everything from building a training base to troubleshooting common challenges, this book is ideal for anyone preparing for their first marathon or trying to improve on a previous performance.

Higdon also includes 5 customizable training plans, catering to runners of all abilities, from novice to seasoned marathoners.

The advice is practical, actionable, and easy to follow, making it a must-have for any aspiring marathoner.

Get this book on Amazon here.

2. Think Like a Runner

Written by world-class running coach Jeff Horowitz, Think Like a Runner focuses on the mental side of running, helping athletes stay motivated and consistent in their training

Packed with tips on setting goals, dealing with seasonal challenges, and preparing for races, this book is designed to make running a lifelong, enjoyable habit.

Whether they’re struggling to stay motivated during the off-season or looking for new strategies to tackle race day nerves, this book offers invaluable insights.

Buy this book on Amazon here‍

3. How to Run the Perfect Race

Matt Fitzgerald, a leading voice in the running world, narrows his focus on pacing in this highly practical book. Mastering pacing is one of the toughest challenges for runners, and this book explains why and how to overcome it.

Fitzgerald explores the science of pacing, strategies for training and race execution, and real-world examples.

With detailed training plans for distances from 5K to marathon, this book empowers runners to race smarter and finish stronger.

Amazon link here

4. Running Your First Ultra

Krissy Moehl simplifies the intimidating world of ultra-running in this approachable guide. Running Your First Ultra is ideal for runners ready to push beyond the marathon distance.

Moehl’s book breaks down everything an ultra-runner needs to know, from gear and nutrition to mental preparation.

It includes training plans for 50K, 50 miles, and 100 miles, and doubles as a journal so runners can track their weekly progress. If you know someone dreaming of conquering an ultra, this is the book to help them succeed.

Buy it here

5. Science of Running

For the analytical runner, Science of Running is a deep dive into the mechanics and physiology of the sport.

Author Steve Magness breaks down complex topics like biomechanics, energy systems, and strength training, all with clear explanations and visuals.

The book offers science-backed strategies to improve performance, making it a great choice for runners who want to understand why certain training methods work.

It also includes detailed training plans for various distances, giving runners tools to apply what they’ve learned.

Get this book on Amazon at this link

Conclusion

A great running book can inspire, educate, and motivate runners at every level.

Whether your loved one is training for their first race or chasing an ultra-marathon dream, these carefully selected books are sure to make their holiday season brighter and their runs even better!

If you are looking for other gift ideas here are 10 budget-friendly gift for runners!