Born to Run is
such a rip-roaring yarn, that it is easy to miss Nike Free Run 2 the book's deeper
achievements. At a second level, McDougall introduces and explores a
powerful thesis--that human beings are literally born to run.
Recreational running did not begin with the 1966 publication of
"Jogging" by the co-founder of Nike. Instead, McDougall argues, running
is at the heart of what it means to be human. In the course of
elaborating his thesis, McDougall answers some big questions: Why did
our ancestors outlive the stronger, smarter Neanderthals? Why do
expensive running shoes increase the odds of injury? The author's
modesty keeps him from trumpeting the novelty and importance of this
thesis, but it merits attention.
Finally, Born to Run presents a
philosophy of exercise. The ethos that Nike Free Run 3 pervades recreational and
competitive running--"no pain, no gain," is fundamentally flawed,
McDougall argues. The essence of running should not be grim
determination, but sheer joy. Many of the conventions of modern
running--the thick-soled shoes, mechanical treadmills, take no prisoners
competition, and heads-down powering through pain dull our appreciation
of what running can be--a sociable activity, more game than chore, that
can lead to adventure. McDougall's narrative moves the book forward,
his thesis provides a solid intellectual Cheap Nike Free Run support, but this philosophy of
joy animates Born to Run. I hope this book finds the wide audience it
deserves.
