What is the main message of Choosing to Run?

The main message of Choosing to Run is embracing the process of running and finding joy in the journey.

Who is the author of Choosing to Run?

The author of Choosing to Run is Des Linden.

Personal Development

Choosing to Run Book Summary - Choosing to Run Book explained in key points

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Choosing to Run summary

Name: Choosing to Run
Rating: 3.2 (17 reviews)
Author: Des Linden

Des Linden

A Memoir

3.2 (17 ratings)

18 mins

Topics

Memoirs Success Goals Inspiration Biographies

Table of Contents

Choosing to Run
Summary of 6 key ideas

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What’s in it for me? Discover resilience and triumph in adversity through Des Linden’s inspiring marathon journey.

For many, running is more than a sport – it’s a symbol of life’s struggles and triumphs, a journey of self-discovery and perseverance. To see this, look no further than the remarkable story of Des Linden, a marathon runner whose resilience and determination have captivated the hearts of many. Linden’s story is not just about her physical prowess on the track but also about her inner strength and the mental battles she has faced and overcome.

Des Linden’s name became synonymous with tenacity and grit, especially after her historic win at the Boston Marathon in 2018, where she became the champion and the first American woman to win the race in thirty-three years. This victory wasn’t just about crossing the finish line first – it was a testament to overcoming adversity and embodying the marathon spirit. The Boston Marathon, with its rich history and challenging course, serves as a perfect backdrop for Linden’s inspiring journey. It’s a race that tests not only the limits of physical endurance but also the strength of the human spirit.

In this Blink, you’ll delve into the world of professional marathon running through Linden’s eyes. You’ll witness her transformation from a reluctant young runner to a celebrated marathon champion. Ultimately, this is a story about the power of persistence, the importance of self-belief, and the beauty of finding your path amidst the rigors of competitive sports. Des Linden’s story is a compelling reminder that in the marathon of life, it’s not just the physical strides that count, but also the mental resilience and the courage to pursue your dreams.

From reluctant runner to resilient racer

Des Linden’s marathon journey started as a young girl. She was initially coerced into running by her father, Dennis – a reluctant start that set Linden on a path to remarkable achievements in competitive running. Her parents, demanding yet supportive, shaped her early sports experiences, viewing athletics not merely as recreation but as vital for character development.

At just ten, Linden, underdressed yet undeterred, stood at the Junior Carlsbad race’s starting line. When the race began, she unexpectedly dominated, marking the start of a journey that would define much of her life.

As Linden grew, she found solace in the personal achievement and independence that running offered, a stark contrast to team sports. Her father’s rigorous training instilled resilience and a competitive spirit, but it was the freedom of running that truly resonated with her. It offered a reprieve from her father’s intense supervision.

In high school, Linden’s running talent flourished, transforming from a sport to a medium for self-expression and escape. Choosing Arizona State University and being coached by Walt Drenth marked her first major independent decision.

At ASU, Linden faced new challenges, including confronting body image issues prevalent in women’s track. She learned the balance of pushing her body to its limits while maintaining a healthy relationship with food and self-image.

Post-college, Linden’s commitment to professional running deepened, signifying a dedication to her sport and a quest for personal discovery. Joining the Original Distance Project in Michigan was a pivotal decision, reflecting her past experiences and ambition in athletics.

All these experiences culminated in Linden’s preparation for the renowned Boston Marathon. This event symbolized the culmination of her life's journey in running. Facing harsh weather conditions, Linden demonstrated strategic acumen and resilience. Her performance at the Boston Marathon was the epitome of her evolution as an athlete – from running under the shadow of parental expectations to racing on her own terms, defining her own path to success. This moment in her career highlights how a once-reluctant runner transformed into a figure of determination, independence, and extraordinary achievement in the world of marathon running.

Trials and tribulations in olympic marathon running

Before Linden’s success in the Boston Marathon, she had another significant running milestone. The road to the Olympics for Linden was a blend of triumphs, professional challenges, and the harsh realities of sports politics. Her journey to the 2012 US Olympic marathon trials in Houston marked a pivotal moment when she finished second, securing her a place in the Olympics. This achievement was a mix of surreal success and emotional complexity, especially as she witnessed a close friend miss the Olympic team.

Navigating the intricate dynamics of professional running, Linden often felt like an outsider but bonded over a shared aspiration. This period marked a significant evolution in her career, focusing on the business side and negotiating better contract terms and independence. This shift altered her relationship with her coaches towards a more professional dynamic.

Overcoming internal battles in a marathon of the mind

Linden’s journey in marathoning intertwines with a profound exploration of mental resilience. Her story is significantly marked by a health scare that shook her world: waking in the middle of the night with a weak heartbeat, leading to a diagnosis of severe hypothyroidism. This condition not only presented physical challenges but also prompted a deep introspection into her life and career as an athlete. It became a catalyst for redefining her relationship with running, shifting from a relentless pursuit of victory to a more balanced approach, acknowledging her body’s limits and needs.

The 2017 Boston Marathon, a race steeped in history and personal significance, ended in a fourth-place finish for Linden. Beyond the physical exertion, this outcome triggered a profound disillusionment with the competitive aspect of marathoning. Confronted with competitors equipped with advanced technological gear and the shadow of doping scandals, Linden found herself questioning the essence and fairness of the sport she devoted her life to.

Embracing holistic growth beyond the track

Linden’s professional running career transcends the boundaries of physical and mental accomplishments, evolving into a journey of holistic personal development. The shift in Linden’s perspective – prompted by the diagnosis of severe hypothyroidism – led her away from structured team training to a more autonomous and flexible approach, emphasizing the importance of rest and recovery. This change not only impacted her training regime but also underscored the significance of listening to her body and aligning her athletic pursuits with personal passions – passions including bourbon tasting, literature, and travel.

Linden’s running journey weaves through the tapestry of global cultures, from the historic avenues of Rome to the plains of Kenya and the vibrant streets of Marrakesh. These experiences enrich her perspective, blending the rigors of athletic training with cultural exploration and personal enrichment. Running in these diverse landscapes provided more than physical training – it offered a gateway to understanding the intricate relationship between an athlete’s journey and the broader context of the world.

Linden’s resolve on the eve of challenge

In the days leading up to her pivotal marathon, Linden confronted a maelstrom of emotions. A crucial workout, more than a mere physical trial, became a symbol of her wavering confidence. Wearing new racing flats, she stepped into the unknown, a metaphor for the uncertainty and anticipation surrounding the race. Despite initial discomfort, the shoes gradually showed promise, mirroring Linden’s journey of adaptation and resilience.

As the marathon loomed, Linden grappled with the weight of her past training inconsistencies, casting a shadow of doubt over her preparations. This emotional exhaustion stripped away the typical pre-race thrill, leaving her in a state of contemplative sobriety. At the pre-race media conference, her candid commentary on team dynamics revealed an underlying conflict, hinting at a deep-seated sense of alienation within her professional environment.

Triumph amidst adversity

In the final strides of the Boston Marathon, Linden confronts her fears, turning a race fraught with challenges into a defining moment of triumph. Familiar with every nuance of the course, she harnesses her deep knowledge to stay focused, despite the looming threat of competitors closing in. As she approaches the race’s final stages, strategic decisions and her attunement to the cheering crowd fuel her resolve.

The marathon’s climax unfolds with Linden surmounting the incline on Mount Hereford, a symbol of her overcoming countless challenges throughout her career. As she turns onto Boylston Street, the realization that victory is within reach dawns upon her. For the first time, Linden, often feeling like an outsider in the world of elite marathoning, finds herself alone on the road, the center of attention in a moment of surreal triumph.

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What is Choosing to Run about?

Choosing to Run (2023) explores the world of professional marathon running, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of long-distance racing. It delves into the mental and physical preparation required to excel in such a demanding sport, highlighting the resilience and dedication needed for success. By blending personal experiences with broader themes of perseverance and determination, it provides a captivating look at the journey of a top-tier marathon runner.

Choosing to Run Review

Choosing to Run (2022) by Des Linden is a captivating memoir that offers a unique perspective on endurance running and overcoming challenges. Here's why this book is worth picking up:

Through Linden's inspiring personal journey, readers are compelled to push their own limits and discover their potential.
With its detailed accounts of grueling races and training regimes, the book provides an intimate look into the world of professional running.
By sharing her experiences and insights, Linden's story is empowering and relatable, making the book a compelling read for both seasoned runners and beginners.

Who should read Choosing to Run?

Amateur and professional marathon runners
Individuals seeking motivation and perseverance strategies
Fans of inspirational athlete biographies

About the Author

Des Linden is an American long-distance runner, celebrated for her remarkable achievement as the first American woman to win the Boston Marathon in 33 years, a feat she accomplished in 2018. Known for her extraordinary endurance and strength in marathon running, she has become a prominent figure in the world of athletics.

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