Eat and Run by Scott Jurek

“Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness” is a memoir by American ultramarathon runner Scott Jurek. In the book, Jurek shares his journey from a small-town Minnesota kid with a love for running to becoming one of the most successful ultramarathon runners in the world. Along the way, he reflects on the physical, mental, and emotional challenges he has faced and overcome, as well as the important role that a plant-based diet has played in his training and recovery.

One of the most striking aspects of Jurek’s story is his relentless determination and drive to succeed. From an early age, Jurek was drawn to running as a way to push himself to the limit and test the boundaries of what he was capable of. This drive served him well as he progressed from high school track and field to college cross-country, and eventually to the world of ultramarathons. Despite facing numerous setbacks and injuries, Jurek always found a way to bounce back and come back stronger.

Another notable aspect of Jurek’s story is his commitment to a plant-based diet. While many endurance athletes rely on animal-based protein sources to fuel their training, Jurek has been a vegan for much of his career, relying on a variety of plant-based sources of protein, carbohydrates, and other nutrients. In the book, he discusses the many benefits of a plant-based diet, including improved recovery, reduced inflammation, and better overall health. He also shares his experiences with finding and preparing plant-based meals while on the road, as well as the challenges he has faced in convincing others of the benefits of this way of eating.

One of the most compelling parts of “Eat and Run” is Jurek’s candid and honest reflection on the psychological and emotional challenges he has faced as an athlete. He writes about the fear, doubt, and anxiety that he has struggled with at various points in his career, and how he has worked to overcome these challenges and find mental and emotional balance. He also shares his experiences with depression and how he has learned to manage this condition through therapy, medication, and other strategies.

Overall, “Eat and Run” is an inspiring and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in endurance sports, plant-based nutrition, or the mental and emotional challenges of high-level competition. Jurek’s writing is engaging and personal, and he provides a wealth of practical tips and advice for runners and other athletes. Whether you’re an experienced runner looking to take your training to the next level, or simply someone who is interested in the inner workings of the mind of a top-level athlete, “Eat and Run” is definitely worth a read.