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RunDisney: The Official Guide to Racing Around the Parks
The first-ever official guidebook by RunDisney, the hugely popular road race division of The Walt Disney Company!
With this comprehensive guide, readers will
The must-have guide ru The Official Guide to Racing Around the Parks is written by Scott Douglas, who writes extensively for Runner’s World magazine, and includes a foreword by Olympian and bestselling author Jeff Galloway. Select expert sidebars by Galloway and Olympian Molly Huddle offer additional tips on training, gear, etiquette, and more.
With this comprehensive guide, readers will
The must-have guide ru The Official Guide to Racing Around the Parks is written by Scott Douglas, who writes extensively for Runner’s World magazine, and includes a foreword by Olympian and bestselling author Jeff Galloway. Select expert sidebars by Galloway and Olympian Molly Huddle offer additional tips on training, gear, etiquette, and more.
- GenresNonfictionTravel
137 pages, Paperback
Published March 5, 2024
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41 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 5, 2024
RunDisney is the official guide for runDisney races, which are, in my opinion, the best races around! But this is also a book with tons of information for every runner, making this is a comprehensive guide for beginning runners and experienced runners looking to up their game.
This book really has a ton of helpful information about how to prepare for running and how to get the most out of your running routine. Topics covered include nutrition, clothing, shoes, the health benefits of running, how to prevent and deal with injuries, and how to get faster and run longer. Not only is there some personal insight from the authors (who have lots of experience and medals to prove their running prowess), but there's scientific data to back their suggestions. The writing style is easy to follow, and the layout is clean and logical.
The last few chapters are specifically about the runDisney races. I've been participating in runDisney events at Walt Disney World since 2016, and they are so much fun! Running is much more enjoyable when you're surrounded by people in costumes and when you get to run through the Disney parks. The book is (obviously) of the same opinion, and these chapters share information about the history of the runDisney events as well as information on all the different races, the challenges, training specifically for these challenges, and how to make the most out of runDisney events. There are also a bunch of fun pictures that really capture the magic of these races and make me want to go back ASAP!
RunDisney is a quick, informative, and fun read about finding the joy in running and making the most of it, especially when you choose to run a runDisney race!
This book really has a ton of helpful information about how to prepare for running and how to get the most out of your running routine. Topics covered include nutrition, clothing, shoes, the health benefits of running, how to prevent and deal with injuries, and how to get faster and run longer. Not only is there some personal insight from the authors (who have lots of experience and medals to prove their running prowess), but there's scientific data to back their suggestions. The writing style is easy to follow, and the layout is clean and logical.
The last few chapters are specifically about the runDisney races. I've been participating in runDisney events at Walt Disney World since 2016, and they are so much fun! Running is much more enjoyable when you're surrounded by people in costumes and when you get to run through the Disney parks. The book is (obviously) of the same opinion, and these chapters share information about the history of the runDisney events as well as information on all the different races, the challenges, training specifically for these challenges, and how to make the most out of runDisney events. There are also a bunch of fun pictures that really capture the magic of these races and make me want to go back ASAP!
RunDisney is a quick, informative, and fun read about finding the joy in running and making the most of it, especially when you choose to run a runDisney race!
June 22, 2024
When I received an arc copy of RunDisney I was pumped! As a previously avid-runner and forever Disney fan, running a Disney marathon or half is on my life-list, so I very much looked forward to diving into the book! I took my time absorbing and enjoying the book over several months and found it so inspiring. While it does of course cover the practicality of running a Disney race that you’d expect, it covered waaaaay more than I expected and I’d generally say it’s a great guide or how-to for beginners and seasoned runners.
The book covers such great information such as picking out what you wear, getting proper shoes, and how to actually start running. I’ve always loved running and reading the book brought me such joy.
Thanks so much to the authors, Hyperion press, and NetGalley for the arc to read. I loved reading it and am grateful!
The book covers such great information such as picking out what you wear, getting proper shoes, and how to actually start running. I’ve always loved running and reading the book brought me such joy.
Thanks so much to the authors, Hyperion press, and NetGalley for the arc to read. I loved reading it and am grateful!
November 14, 2024
Great book with good information. As someone that has never ran a race I hope the tips help as I’m really looking forward to trying a Disney run!
December 23, 2023
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
This is a nicely presented but broad overview of how to do a RunDisney event. The author goes into fitness, getting ready/practices, caring for yourself, and then there is some information about the events themselves. Note that this is an official guide, so recommendations on staying in the area/eating in the area/and other activities all focus on the resort only. Because of the highly graphical nature of this book, I do recommend a physical version over the Kindle version.The book breaks down as follows: introduction, how to start running, how to build endurance and speed, running shoes and other gear, what to eat and drink, how to prevent and treat common running injuries, rundown on Disney events, finding a RunDisney group, running with Disney style, how to conquer a RunDisney challenge, maintaining the magic, gallery of medals, Appendix (listing Disney World and Disneyland Resorts).
Most of the book is about how to properly prepare for a race - from pacing yourself, preventing injuries, female considerations (includes sports bras), equipment/shoes, hydration, etc. There are pointers in there especially for the heat that may occur during the race day. Myths about running - including the one about running ruining knees, are debunked as well. There are warm ups and then cooldowns to help stay injury free before, during, and after the race(s).
The rest of the book is about the race day. All the different types of races are listed, along with dates, medals, and considerations specific to those races. There isn't specific information such as how to sign up, etc. - just overview information. I also wish that there were tip call out boxes specific to each race: things that people often get wrong or wish they knew before they started that particular race. But again, this is an official book, so negatives are avoided throughout. There is good information on how to include your kids in the races and events tailored to them.
In all, a nice comprehensive but easily readable overview of RunDisney events. Like a Birnbaum guide to the parks, this is meant as a friendly overview to get you in the mood and provide some information to help make the process of doing a race better. There are copious amounts of photographs and even tips on the best costumes to wear if you want to DisneyBound your race. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
January 19, 2024
I want to begin by giving a huge thank you to @hyperionpress and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review @thescottdouglas’ newest book, “runDisney.” This guidebook walks you through all the how-to’s to start running, prepare for a marathon, and educate you on everything you could possibly know about Disney’s illustrious marathons. With a scheduled release for March 5th, 2024, and the Walt Disney World Marathon this weekend, there was no better time to share this handbook. I was so inspired that my husband and I signed up for our first runDisney marathon this February!
Douglas, with insights from Jeff Galloway and Molly Huddle, expertly guides readers on becoming runners, from the initial decision to overcoming the post-marathon high, underscoring the uniqueness of each athletic journey. The book covers the extensive benefits of running, providing advice on starting distances, the run-walk-run technique for fatigue management, the importance of consistency, schedule setting, and listening to one's body. It also touches on choosing breathable, suitable attire, the role of diet tailored to various preferences, clarifies weight loss myths, and offers injury prevention strategies (“think PREhab, not rehab” is brilliant!). And all of this is just the first half of the guidebook!
The last half of the guidebook delves deeply into the world of Disney’s marathons, from explaining its origins (30 years this year!) and all their yearlong themes. Douglas skillfully navigates through all the themes, from enchanting Princess-themed runs to the culinary delights of the Wine & Dine Marathon and various other seasonal races. Even more, it explains the variety of distances in the races, ranging from the accessible 5k to more challenging multi-day events stretching up to 19.3 kilometers.
Beyond race logistics, the guidebook serves as an educational tool, providing insights into the communal joy of running with friends, the art of selecting and wearing themed costumes, and strategies for not only facing but also thriving on race day. The guidebook is also a treasure trove of practical information, including a comprehensive glossary covering hotel accommodations, healthy restaurants tailored for runners, and a nostalgic look at the medals from races past.
This book is an excellent introduction for all runners, novices and experts. Even if you don’t plan to join a marathon in 2024, Douglas provides everything you could possibly want to know to be a successful runner, whether competitively or for hobby. Make sure to pick it up when it releases March 5th!
Douglas, with insights from Jeff Galloway and Molly Huddle, expertly guides readers on becoming runners, from the initial decision to overcoming the post-marathon high, underscoring the uniqueness of each athletic journey. The book covers the extensive benefits of running, providing advice on starting distances, the run-walk-run technique for fatigue management, the importance of consistency, schedule setting, and listening to one's body. It also touches on choosing breathable, suitable attire, the role of diet tailored to various preferences, clarifies weight loss myths, and offers injury prevention strategies (“think PREhab, not rehab” is brilliant!). And all of this is just the first half of the guidebook!
The last half of the guidebook delves deeply into the world of Disney’s marathons, from explaining its origins (30 years this year!) and all their yearlong themes. Douglas skillfully navigates through all the themes, from enchanting Princess-themed runs to the culinary delights of the Wine & Dine Marathon and various other seasonal races. Even more, it explains the variety of distances in the races, ranging from the accessible 5k to more challenging multi-day events stretching up to 19.3 kilometers.
Beyond race logistics, the guidebook serves as an educational tool, providing insights into the communal joy of running with friends, the art of selecting and wearing themed costumes, and strategies for not only facing but also thriving on race day. The guidebook is also a treasure trove of practical information, including a comprehensive glossary covering hotel accommodations, healthy restaurants tailored for runners, and a nostalgic look at the medals from races past.
This book is an excellent introduction for all runners, novices and experts. Even if you don’t plan to join a marathon in 2024, Douglas provides everything you could possibly want to know to be a successful runner, whether competitively or for hobby. Make sure to pick it up when it releases March 5th!
February 2, 2024
It's worth noting that this book is largely a generic running book (which is not bad) but it took more than half the book to get to anything RunDisney specific. It has a great breakdown of the current RunDisney events. (Though, it didn't mention the Disneyland races, if that is your thing.)
The Good:
- The running advice is extensive and (for what I've done in the past and can therefore vouch for) great. It walks you through how to start running, common stumbling blocks, what type is gear to buy, and different schedules to up your game.
- When it gets to the RunDisney events, it gives you a rundown of what to expect from the weekend/on race day as well as advice on costumes, what to do post race and where to stay/eat on site.
-The pictures are great! The RunDisney shots make you excited about participating bit it's the images for stretches that are really useful.
The Less Good:
There are three writers and one of them had a voice that - to me - felt a little judgey. Personally, when it feels like a writer is talking down to me, I am less likely to absorb what they're trying to teach me. It wasn't a deal breaker, but at the start of the book I was concerned it might be.
(I received an early copy for review)
The Good:
- The running advice is extensive and (for what I've done in the past and can therefore vouch for) great. It walks you through how to start running, common stumbling blocks, what type is gear to buy, and different schedules to up your game.
- When it gets to the RunDisney events, it gives you a rundown of what to expect from the weekend/on race day as well as advice on costumes, what to do post race and where to stay/eat on site.
-The pictures are great! The RunDisney shots make you excited about participating bit it's the images for stretches that are really useful.
The Less Good:
There are three writers and one of them had a voice that - to me - felt a little judgey. Personally, when it feels like a writer is talking down to me, I am less likely to absorb what they're trying to teach me. It wasn't a deal breaker, but at the start of the book I was concerned it might be.
(I received an early copy for review)
August 30, 2025
I was very excited to have a chance to read this RunDisney guide by Scott Douglas, forward by Jeff Galloway with select sidebars by Jeff Galloway and Molly Huddle. I had a chance to meet Jeff Galloway a few years ago when I ran the Tinkerbell Half Marathon at Disneyland. Although I haven't had a chance to run another race with them yet, I have a lot of friends who do and I love following them when they occur. This book is a great book to read if you've never ran one of the RunDisney events not to mention a great book to also refresh your memory on it. The book isn't just a book about the runs but the background of how to prepare for a run including the proper nutrition, clothing and shoes to purchase and the great benefits running gives you. Even if you don't plan to run one, it's a great read to see how they are done and possibly change your mind and try!
Thank you to Netgalley and Hyperion Press for this ARC. Thank you so much to Scott Douglas for this read and to Jeff Galloway and Molly Huddle for your input as well.
I received this ARC for my honest opinion. Thank you!
Thank you to Netgalley and Hyperion Press for this ARC. Thank you so much to Scott Douglas for this read and to Jeff Galloway and Molly Huddle for your input as well.
I received this ARC for my honest opinion. Thank you!
February 9, 2024
This book combines run-training advice and information about Disney’s RunDisney events. It includes solid (if standard) training information, advice on selecting shoes and other gear, injury prevention, prepping for race day, etc. I found the training plans and stretch info especially useful.
The Disney-specific material, though, is where this book shines. The writers review the various RunDisney events Disney World hosts (from 5ks to full marathons to back-to-back half and full marathon weekends), to help with logistics and planning. It’s practical and inspiring, with many fantastic photos; Disney really does know how to throw this type of party! I ran/walked Disney half marathons several years ago and wish we had had access to this information as we planned our time there.
RunDisney, the book, would be helpful for someone just starting to run — perhaps with the end goal of participating in one of Disney World’s RunDisney events — and for anyone cheering on a race participant.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC.
The Disney-specific material, though, is where this book shines. The writers review the various RunDisney events Disney World hosts (from 5ks to full marathons to back-to-back half and full marathon weekends), to help with logistics and planning. It’s practical and inspiring, with many fantastic photos; Disney really does know how to throw this type of party! I ran/walked Disney half marathons several years ago and wish we had had access to this information as we planned our time there.
RunDisney, the book, would be helpful for someone just starting to run — perhaps with the end goal of participating in one of Disney World’s RunDisney events — and for anyone cheering on a race participant.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC.
January 8, 2025
Really effective running propaganda because after I finished this, I registered for Disneyland's half marathon in September and now plan to do Walt Disney World's marathon next January.
I'm being 100% serious btw.
But also, this book is just okay. I've run a few half marathons, a 10-miler, and a 10K, and I was hoping to get more in-depth information to improve my training. However, this book is surface-level on every account. Even the chapters on RunDisney races barely have any substantive information on what to expect from the experience... isn't that the book's point?
This may be a helpful starting point for a new runner, but I think runners of all skill levels need to look further for more detailed information. I liked looking at the pictures though!
I'm being 100% serious btw.
But also, this book is just okay. I've run a few half marathons, a 10-miler, and a 10K, and I was hoping to get more in-depth information to improve my training. However, this book is surface-level on every account. Even the chapters on RunDisney races barely have any substantive information on what to expect from the experience... isn't that the book's point?
This may be a helpful starting point for a new runner, but I think runners of all skill levels need to look further for more detailed information. I liked looking at the pictures though!
May 16, 2024
Honestly, I really enjoyed this runDisney guide. Although I have already completed 2 half marathons with runDisney, this book is designed to be a beginners guide to running in general and running at Disney specifically. There are a lot of helpful tips to get started as well as multiple examples related to training, especially using the Jeff Galloway method. As someone who loves to talk people into signing up for races, I actually do feel that I could easily loan this book out so that a newbie knows what to expect. Also, it is written in very straightforward language with tons of great pictures.
January 31, 2024
I loved this book so much that I pre ordered a hard copy. There is so much GREAT information in this book. My family has been running the Princess half marathon since 2011, we have made it our family vacation every year. So many great tips and trick. Well worth the look for a new runner, and even someone who has been running for a while. ( I even got my library to order it)
January 8, 2025
The first half of the book is very solid info for runners new and experienced. That part I would have rated 4 star. The retraction is that there’s very little info about runDisney events. This wasn’t a runDisney book. It was a running book (good for getting started) with a splash of Disney dressing on top.
December 22, 2024
I’m definitely not the target audience for this book, but I think it was a great overview for people new to runDisney and running in general.
September 3, 2025
As a runDisney runner, I can confirm this book was such a good introduction into this world and is a great read for anyone looking to get into the activity.
April 22, 2024
There are some good tidbits of information in here, though I wish the Disney specific sections were longer.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews