Primal Endurance

My Score - 9/10

Key Area's covered: Running by Feel, MAF, Strength, Barefoot

Key Positives: Great blueprint for getting started.

"Primal Endurance" is aimed to be a ground-breaking guide that revolutionizes the way we approach endurance training, offering a refreshing and effective alternative to conventional methods. This book was the original inspiration for changing my training methodology after a few years of constant injuries. Authored by Mark Sisson and Brad Kearns, the book presents a comprehensive blueprint for achieving peak performance while embracing the primal principles of ancestral health. As is my guiding principle, health leads to performance (it might just take a little longer!).

Sisson and Kearns skilfully marry their expertise in endurance training with the ancestral wisdom of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. The result is a holistic approach that prioritizes intuitive training, emphasizing the importance of aerobic development through MAF training and metabolic efficiency over the traditionally high-stress, chronic cardio routines. The authors provide a wealth of practical advice, backed by scientific research, to guide readers on the journey to becoming fat-adapted athletes.

One of the book's standout features is its accessibility. The authors break down complex concepts into easily digestible information, making it suitable for both seasoned athletes and those new to the world of endurance sports. The inclusion of real-life success stories adds a motivational layer to the narrative, illustrating how the primal endurance approach has transformed the lives of individuals seeking sustainable fitness and health.

It is also great to see barefoot shoes and drills being encouraged. We evolved to be barefoot and whilst our feet are too weak from years of cushioning and at risk from modern paths there is no reason some barefoot walking can't be used to improve technique and stave off injury.

"Primal Endurance" doesn't just stop at training methodologies; it also explores the importance of nutrition, sleep, and stress management in achieving optimal performance. The emphasis on a holistic lifestyle approach ensures that readers walk away with a comprehensive understanding of how to thrive in all aspects of life.

In conclusion, "Primal Endurance" was game-changing for my endurance training, it really helped my slow down and encouraged me to use barefoot shoes. Sisson and Kearns have crafted a compelling guide that challenges the status quo, providing a roadmap for athletes to achieve peak performance while embracing the fundamental principles of our primal heritage. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or someone looking to break into the world of endurance sports, this book is an invaluable resource that will reshape your approach to training and elevate your performance to new heights. If I was to recommend a blueprint for people getting started in adapting their training this would probably be it.