The Impossible Long Run: My Journey to Becoming Ultra

by Janet Patkowa

One day… I wanted to climb a mountain. One day… I wanted to explore the US in an RV. One day… I wanted to backpack in a foreign country. None of these things were happening because it seemed impossible to fit big adventures into a nine-to-five life. Until one day it hit me. One day was not just going to happen. I had to start taking the steps to make it happen and figure out how to fit it in. I got on the internet and searched for something to inspire me. I found the Becoming Ultra project. And thus began my journey to running a 50 mile race.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sports, Adventure, Memoir

197 pages, Paperback

Published June 2, 2019

Reviews

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Im sure it’s because I’m one of the new Becoming Ultra people on the new season of the podcast (EEK!) but I loved everything about this book! I know Scott through the few takings we’ve done and I know how the podcast format works so it was interesting hearing how another runner felt throughout the whole process. Especially since I’m only a month in and am nervous!

Im definitely less nervous knowing I’m “only” running a 50k but I can’t imagine training for a 50 mile race!

[Katherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn’t feel like this book added much value to the podcast - in fact the podcast was probably a better format due to its format.

Janet’s accomplishments are admirable, but this read like a training journal (so much talk about knee pain and then a mysterious stretching fix for her hip pain). Her thought process was very self-congratulatory, with neat endings to every possible issue.

A runner’s version of Eat, Pray, Love, with finishing the ultra a forgone conclusion.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very inspiring. I can see myself and my personality in the author. The way she talks about avoiding group runs because you have to talk to people and her anxiety around running new areas mirror my own feelings.

I have completed a few half marathons, and like the author I decided to skip a full marathon and “go for an adventure” (for me it’s the Disney Dopey Challenge of 48.6 miles across 4 days). I think this book really resonates with me because I understand the demands of training and how much time you sacrifice to put in the work your body needs in order to accomplish your goals. Also like the author, I’ve struggled with knee pain for years so I sympathize with her plight. This book gives me hope that I won’t hurt forever, and it has exhibited the value of a personalized coaching plan and focused PT.

I don’t think I want to run 50 miles in a single day (at least not yet), but this book has clearly shown me that it is possible. I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys running at any distance.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Account

This book was an excellent account of an activity I would have previously called impossible. Janet's writing breaks it down in a way that is clear, concise, and manageble. I loved it.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. If you like to run long distances and are looking for endurance adventures, this book will motivate you to pursue your goals.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed her story and training, but the writing was very elementary.