Runner's World Run Less Run Faster: Become a Faster, Stronger Runner with the Revolutionary 3-Runs-a-Week Training Program
About this product
The groundbreaking plan that helps runners of all levels to improve their race times while actually training less—NOW REVISED AND UPDATED marathon training plans for the NEW qualifying times for the 2027 Boston Marathon along with 5K, 10K and half-marathon training plans.
In today’s busy, fast-paced world, all runners have the same objective: to run the best they can with the limited amount of time at their disposal. Bill Pierce and Scott Murr made that goal possible with their revolutionary FIRST (Furman Institute of Running and Scientific Training) training program. FIRST’s unique training philosophy makes running easier and more accessible, limits overtraining and burnout, and substantially cuts the risk of injury while producing faster race times. The key feature of the detailed training plans for 5k, 10k, half-marathon, and marathon is the 3PLUS2 program, which consists of:
• 3 quality runs, including track repeats, the tempo run, and the long run, which are designed to improve endurance, lactate-threshold running pace, and leg speed
• 2 aerobic cross-training workouts, such as swimming, rowing, or pedaling a stationary bike, which are designed to improve endurance while helping to avoid burnout
With tips for goal-setting, recovery, injury rehab and prevention, strength training, and nutrition, Run Less, Run Faster has changed the way runners think about and train for competitive races. This revised third edition includes a new preface, training plans tailored to the new qualifying times for the Boston Marathon, new exercise photos, charts that will help runners adjust training practices to their elevation and climate, and updated nutritional recommendations. Read more
Editor's Take
Readers on Goodreads and The StoryGraph generally describe this book as a practical, motivating training guide with clear plans and useful structure. Several reviewers say the 3-runs-a-week approach feels effective and time-efficient, especially for runners balancing training with busy schedules.
Some reviewers note drawbacks: the plans can feel less flexible for beginners, and slower runners may need to adapt the pace charts. A Reddit discussion about the FIRST method says some runners achieved strong personal bests after following the program, while a few blog reviews mention that the method is demanding but rewarding if the cross-training and recovery pieces are followed closely.
- Amazon reviewers are not directly visible in the gathered results, but the wider review pattern is mostly positive.
- Goodreads reviewers emphasize clarity, motivation, and effective training structure.
- Reddit users report solid race improvements and mixed views on fit for different ability levels.
- Review blogs describe it as a smart, efficient program, with some caution about needing to adapt details.
Price History
Specifications
| Publisher | Rodale Books |
| Publication date | January 19, 2021 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 352 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0593232232 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0593232231 |
| Item Weight | 13.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | 6.06 x 0.91 x 9.17 inches |
| Part of series | Runner's World |
| Best Sellers Rank | #87,995 in Books ( See Top 100 in Books ) #31 in Sports Medicine (Books) #35 in Track & Field Sports #69 in Rugby (Books) |
| Customer Reviews | 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (311) |
