Boston Marathon: How to Qualify

by Jeff Galloway

With the Galloway program, it's possible to be in the best shape of your life and still have energy to enjoy family and career. The highly successful training schedules include all the elements needed to qualify based on the Boston Marathon standards. Train using Galloway's successful Run Walk Run(R) Method to achieve maximum performance without risking injury. Galloway's magic mile gives a reality check on progress and sets realistic pacing goals for long runs and the race itself. With Galloway's training expertise, you will be ready to compete at your best on race day. This new edition includes up-to-date information on the Boston Marathon.

212 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2010

Reviews

[Terzah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book to dream on! If anyone can get my aging bottom to Boston, it will be Jeff Galloway. The program he describes isn't easy, and it's long (30 weeks!!), but if I can run strong this summer I'm going to give this a go next year. And if I actually do qualify, I'll upgrade my rating on this book to 5 stars!

[Steve · Rating 1 out of 5]

Let me qualify my review first and then take it for what it is. I'm a long-time runner and have run many 1/2's and a few full's. I was looking to take my training to the next level and set a new PR this spring. I've been reading many running books lately to find a training plan for my next effort. I'm not Boston ready yet, but feel that if you are able qualify for that race, then you are in pretty good shape for your age-group.

This book is NOT about how to qualify for Boston. At best, it's just another running/marathon introductory book with plenty of tips on what to eat, what to wear, shoe choices, injury prevention, etc. There are training plans tailored specifically for what time you need to shoot for, but there is a gross lack of detail in HOW to train during the plans. I'm looking for the science behind the speedwork, leg turnover, etc.

Galloway just tells you to run more. OR to use his run/walk method which will not get me to Boston. In the end, the book does share some valuable information for newer runners, but lacks details on the disciplined training that is required for me to qualify for Boston.

I would highly recommend Pete Pfitzinger's "Advanced Marathoning" instead if you are looking for a plan to take your training to the next level. -S

[Jim Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well-produced book, and nice features about Boston, especially the mile-by-mile tour. Also good training programs. We'll see how good they work!