The main section of this book provides both recreational runners and ambitious athletes with an in-depth knowledgeable introduction to long-distance running, enabling the reader to draw up a structural plan for success. Plans are provided for races of varying distances, and the readers are shown how to finish these distances successfully. The author also shows how such training is of use to interested marathon runners, and that ultra marathon training is not all that different from that required for normal marathon running. Information is included on correct nutrition, orthopedic problems, typical injuries, and even mental training, thus providing an optimal preparation for successful ultra running.<BR><BR>The book ends with tips on equipment, a bibliography, and useful internet links.<BR><BR>As well as these training aspects, the book also gives an understanding of the fascination of this sport, bringing the scene to life with brief biographies of eight top runners as well as selected running anecdotes.