I was provided a copy of The Runner’s Brain for the purposes of a review. All opinions expressed here, as always are my own.

While my running continues to remain on hold, I’ve had some extra time to catch up on my reading. One interesting book I recently finished, is The Runner’s Brain by Dr. Jeff Brown – because what else does a sidelined runner read about except running 😉 I have always been fascinated with the mental side of sports, so when Runner’s World reached out to me with the opportunity to review this book, I couldn’t wait to dive in.

In The Runner’s Brain, Dr. Brown lays out the science behind the critical role your brain plays in your running performance, and makes the case for how you can think your way to better running.

The book addresses a range of topics from goal setting and visualization, to running through challenges and dealing with treadmill training. In chapters 18 and 19, Dr. Brown also includes Worksheets for a Healthy Mind and Body and a 7-Day Fit Brain training plan, both of which I’m looking forward to putting into practice when I get back out on the road. The Runner’s Brain offers something for everyone, with easily digestible chapters, so you can focus in on the topics of most interest to you. In a sport often described as 90% mental, this book can be a useful tool in helping you manage your strongest and most important muscle.

How do you manage the mental side of running?

My running is still on hold….

I swear the minute you’re told you can’t run, the weather seems to be perfect and it feels like there are runners everywhere.

I’ve been trying to take advantage of my “free” time to get more yoga in – there’s no “yoga high,” but I’m sure my hamstrings will thank me.

I’m also refocusing my time on house projects and getting the paper creep under control. School has only been back in session a few weeks and I can no longer see my kitchen counter. 

How do you keep yourself occupied when you can’t run?

I’m linking up again with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud