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Fitness

5 inspiring books about women who run

A novel about a 1920s competitive female runner, a memoir about how marathons are like romantic relationships and more.
By Diana Duong
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5 inspiring books about women who run

Running books

Running Like a Girl by Alexandra Heminsley

Swift summary: A lethargic British woman signs up for the London Marathon – even though she's barely run a metre since elementary school.



Best for: People whose bodies seize up after two blocks and think they can't run. (You can.)


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5 inspiring books about women who run

Girl Runner by Carrie Snyder

Swift summary: A former Olympian, now 104, reflects on 1920s Canada, when competitive running was considered out of reach for women.



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Best for: People who prefer a well-paced fictional take on a jog.

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5 inspiring books about women who run

Runner: A Short Story about a Long Run by Lizzy Hawker

Swift summary: An ultra-runner clocks 320 kilometres through the Himalayas, from Everest base camp to Kathmandu.



Best for: People who are ready to graduate from asphalt to mountain peaks.

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5 inspiring books about women who run

Running: A love story by Jen Miller

Swift summary: A meditation on men, marathons and the pain and self-discovery that comes with them both.



Best for: People who find it reassuring to view their relationships as winding marathon routes.

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5 inspiring books about women who run

Night Running: A Book of Essays About Breaking Through (publishes May 2016)

Swift summary: Eleven writers (eight of whom are women) each share a memorable run in the dark.



Best for: People who fear things that go bump in the night — or just need a little motivation to get up before the sun.

5 inspiring books about women who run

Related: Cute new running gear that isn't hot pink Finally — a running shoe built for women Run like a girl: everything you need to hit the pavement

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