No Need for Speed by John "The Penguin" Bingham

Sarah Longfield
Reviewed: 28 August 2007

REALLY INSPIRING!

I loved this book! It was a really encouraging read and i could relate to nearly everything he said in it and the tips he offered.

KARAN
Reviewed: 30 January 2007

REALLY MOTIVATIONAL

Really easy to read style, makes you feel like it's a friend talking to you rather than a self help manual. Proof it's ok to be slow.

None

Really useful, easy to read format, makes you realise that you are not mad,slow,rubbish or anything else negative you may have thought. Really enjoyd it, helped my running immensely.

Stepford Wife
Reviewed: 07 March 2006

EXCELLENT AND SENSIBLE WAY TO START

Very clear and easy to follow. Encouraging ways into running without being off-putting. Sensible guidance about gear, beginning to run and continuing to run.

I don't feel there are any real weaknesses. It's not for speedsters but that's not who it's aimed at.

It is a very constructive beginners' book about how to fit running into your life. It's inspirational, and even had good thoughtful points to make (or remake) to those of us who have been running for some time. I'd recommend it to anyone who thinks running might be a good idea but is put off by the fact they might be too old/fat/unfit. In fact, I'm going to get my Mum a copy!

Plucky Plodder
Reviewed: 30 November 2005

BRILLIANT BOOK TO ENCOURAGE A PERSON TO START RUNNING - WHA

Clear instructions. Takes care to point out that running is for life and so gives guidance on the pitfalls that can prevent people from continuing to run. Particularly helpful is his sharing of his own experoences which give encouragement to those of us who are older and not as slim as we could be.

A little bit twee and "American" for me a cynical Brit.

Its kept me going since March 2005 when I started running for 30 seconds walk 2 minutes for 30 minutes - can now run 10 miles non stop - and still enjoy it and have had no injuries. So following his guidance has been worth it.

ermintrude75
Reviewed: 21 October 2005

INSPIRATION FOR THE BACK OF THE PACK. NOT FOR RACING SNAKES!

An excellent book for would-be runners who don't know where to start, or those who have started but perhaps feel a bit disillusioned that they're not as fast as they "should be". Wise words from a bloke who has been there (self-confessed overweight lazy smoker) and learned a lot in the process of getting from there to here (a contented back-of-the-pack runner); lots more short tips from other runners of various levels of experience. The writing style is conversational but informative, and the chapters/sections are short enough to digest in snatched moments.

No significant weaknesses, provided you fit into the intended audience. The list of kit seems a little restricted, though, and you may want to do at least part of the 12 weeks intro schedule before you go splashing out on technical tops, to make sure running really is for you. It would have been nice to see a mention of that essential ladies' item, a sports bra!

Whether you're starting from absolute zero, or already a mid- to back of the pack runner / plodder, you will find inspiration and information in this book. Read it well and learn to take joy in your running, however fast. In the words of the Penguin, "waddle on, friends".