Strength Training for Runners and Hurdlers- John Jesse book review

Posted On Wednesday, 27th April 2011 at 07:18

This book was written over 30 years ago but it is extremely relevant in its portrayal of training methods for runners and hurdlers.

At the time John Jesse was ahead of his field in using resistance training methods to condition both himself and his athletes.

Like his excellent book on wrestling physical conditioning, this book systematically looks at the needs of runners, the basics behind strength and conditioning and then links the two.

The chapter on common questions from runners is extremely useful as I get asked similar ones every week. Despite all the extra information out there, unless the individual runner understands and processes it, then it is worthless.

I especially like the chapter on foot and ankle strengthening. The muscles and tendons in the foot are often neglected during resistance training programmes, but are essential parts of the running process. If used correctly, the ankle and foot tendons utilise elasticity to create more speed and to make running more efficient.  The author offers diagrams that show how to make home gym equipment tailor made for runners.

The chapter on injury prevention should be read by all athletics coaches, as the track and field athletes that present themselves to me are almost always broken. The author shows a great understanding of posture and its effect on training, as well as non athletic lifestyles that lead to poor posture. This is even more true today. If this information was available 30 years ago, why are the same mistakes being made?

This is an easy to read book. Some of you might think you know it all already, but I find reading books like this allows a different perspective and makes me look at my common practices and perceptions with a fresh pair of eyes.

Sometimes we are overwhelmed with new information or gadgets that we lose perspective of what is actually working.