Reviews
All reviews subject to approval
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
Brian Pasquale
Bill,
I just want to let you know that I finished your book, "Running for the Average Joe." I have to commend you on a job well done. I felt like the book was written not just for runners, but for me, personally. I'm a middle-of-the-pack runner and learned so much - I can't wait for my spring training sessions to begin. I'll keep you posted!
Brian Pasquale
Thursday, September 12, 2019
Hazel Haun
Centennial, CO
I just bought Running For The Average Joe by Bill Watts. I am so motivated to get my running game on! This book is very motivating and gives me training plans which I need and lots of other very helpful information. The author used to be out of shape and it talks about how he turned his life around with running. Great book for all levels. I highly recommend it!
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Miles Skinner
Fargo, ND
Thanks Bill, for the outstanding training plans! I PR'd at my last marathon - from 3:58 to 3:36! I can't wait until my next one!
Monday, July 29, 2019
Dave Petruski
San Diego, CA
Every now and then you come across a new book - not a regurgitated version of someone else's work, but a refreshing book that has original content and an exciting vibe to it. “Running for the Average Joe” provides this and I think many novice and seasoned runners will be able to relate. In his prologue, author Bill Watts notes that his book is for "average" runners, but I found that it expands its useful life to intermediate or advanced runners just as easily.
In the book, Watts tells his tale of what he calls “unruly weight gain and deteriorating health” at a relatively young age. He cites many examples and corresponding anecdotes for health-related issues and the book is a treasure trove of information – everything from diets to training plans.
I’ve read this book cover to cover several times, and each time I’m able to understand more about the author and the struggle for an “average” runner to attain high goals. From what I can tell (from the book and online race results), he peaked in his early 50’s, going from 5 and 6-hour marathons to sub-3 hour marathons. I’ve also been following his recent race results and he has proven over and over how an average runner can excel at any race distance, even as we get older.
If you want to get inside the mind of an average-turned-high performing athlete, buy a copy of “Running for the Average Joe!” His work is passionate and thorough, thoughtful and entertaining. This book is a MUST READ for any runner who has the motivation to excel.
Monday, May 06, 2019
C.J. Voorhees, RDN
I ordered Running for the Average Joe from an online bookstore and was not disappointed. The author covers the entire gamut of running, from history to nutrition, to the science of running. I work in the medical field as a Registered Dietician Nutritionist (RDN) and was very impressed with the chapters on psychology and physiology. I would have liked to see a bit more information on the diet programs in the Nutrition chapter, but overall, the coverage is accurate.
It was very apparent that the author took time for researching the topics before sending it off to print.
The chapters on strength and conditioning, and cross-training are excellent, as well as the section on setting goals.
Finally, the training plans at the back of the book are just as good, if not better than some of the "paid plans" that are available. They're simple, logical and effective. The basic plans guarantee at least two rest days per week. The intermediate plans give you one day of rest and at least one "easy" day. The advanced level plans are just that - if you're looking to compete, these plans will put you at a competitive level if followed as written. The plans do take a bit longer than some of the other training plans that are out there, but they bring you up to speed without too much risk of injury. Many of the other training plans that I've seen push too hard, too fast, and can result in injury.
All in all, a book that is very well done, and I highly recommend it.