1:59

The Sub-Two-Hour Marathon Is Within Reach - Here’s How It Will Go Down, and What It Can Teach All Runners About Training and Racing

What will it take to run a marathon in less than two hours? The world's fastest times for the marathon have been dropping since the distance of 26.2 miles was made official nearly 100 years ago. But after a noticeable decline that occurred for a half century, the times, while still edging lower, have stalled several minutes north of two hours for the past decade.

For the first time, 1:59 examines what it will take for an elite distance runner to go subtwo hours. It will require more than raw talent, optimal body size, and great athletic genes. In order to become marathon's Roger Bannister and smash this elusive record, this runner must follow a healthy diet and an individualized training regimen that takes advantage of specific environmental factors ("live high, train low"). Because precious seconds count over each mile run, other critical considerations include improved running form and economy, sharpened mental focus, and wearing the right type of racing flats (or even going barefoot).

The athlete who finally breaks distance running's most tantalizing barrier will become a worldwide celebrity overnight. Will the runner be a Kenyan, an Ethiopian, an American, or a marathoner from another country? And how soon will it happen?

By providing a unique window into the highly competitive world of elite marathon running, this book also allows running enthusiasts to have a thorough understanding of the true potential of endurance athletes. And in turn, they can apply the same training and racing principles discussed in 1:59 to their own running, whether it's a 10K, half marathon, marathon, or ultramarathon.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©2014 Philip Maffetone (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Excellent content

excellent content specific for the sub 2 hour marathon. Many aspects can translate into other physical activities and general health.

An interesting look at the science behind 1:59

While I'll never even be a 1:59 Half runner, this book lives up to its title that there are things they can teach all runners. It's amazing to see how much the records have fallen since he wrote this - Kipchoge wasn't even on his radar. Some chapters got a little science heavy, but this was an interesting read during some runs this week.

A lot of great information to improve for ever!

Wrench in the machine!

Insight that really makes one evaluate old thinking. Also given in such a way that it is easy to understand.

All things Maffetone in a tidy package.

In providing his insight into the possibility of a one hour and 59 minute marathon, Dr. Maffetone gives you some great training advice. This is not only a great book for those wanting to learn about elite marathoners, it is also a great book for those of us who just want to run faster.

informative well thought out and great dialog

as usual dr. mafetone delivers a scientific approach to explaining how the human anatomy physiology and psychology fit together in an easily digestible way. his approach to running and fitness is as usual objective and factual. great book