"A great reference for anyone that enjoys or wants to enjoy the trail." ― Trail Runner Nation Everything a trail runner needs to know, from training to racing - Passionate authors and experienced trail runners - Introduction by Brendan Leonard, creator of Semi-Rad.com Running through pastures and forests, hopping over rocks, and splashing through streams: trail running is humanity’s original form of play―an activity we’ve been doing for millions of years. Adventurous runners of all ages, shapes, and sizes are leaving the pavement behind and seeking new challenges. More popular than ever, trail running is growing rapidly around the world. Trail Running Illustrated offers clear, concise advice on how to get started. Created by two longtime trail runners with a passion for the sport, this book is your key to unlocking a lifetime of exploration and challenges, whether you’re running in your local park or through some of the world’s most remote regions. Doug Mayer and Brian Metzler pack an abundance of useful tips into their informative and entertaining volume. Colorfully illustrated by Marion Schreiber, the book covers everything: choosing the right gear, eating the proper food, finding the best trails, staying healthy, avoiding injuries, developing training programs, and racing ultra-distances. -- Steve Fagin ― Appalachia This new trail running primer will make a fine addition to your bookshelf.... We particularly liked the explanations of the differences between road running and trail running (and the impact of “vert”), the tips for trail running with your dog (including caring for their paws) and how to navigate river crossings in ultras. In every case, there is just enough information to whet your appetite without being overwhelming. -- Anne Francis ― Canadian Trail Running The authors joyfully guide you through one of humanity’s oldest forms of play, with special consideration shown towards beginning trail runners. Beyond that, though, this book is a reminder to old hands not to get so caught up in race times or training schedules that we forget the fun that originally drew us to the trails. -- Laura Clark ― American Trail Running Association Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Trail Running Illustrated: The Art of Running Free" is a comprehensive and thoroughly 'user friendly' instructional guide and manual that will be of enduring value for anyone of any age or background. ― Midwest Book Review Trail Running Illustrated: The Art of Running Free is a great resource for both someone just starting out in the sport and tested veterans of the trails who want something a bit more visual to describe their exploits to friends and family. -- Alex Potter ― iRunFar A great reference for anyone that enjoys or wants to enjoy the trail. ― Trail Runner Nation Doug Mayer has been climbing and trail running in mountain ranges around the world for three decades. Founder of tour company Run the Alps and contributing editor for Trail Runner magazine, he has worked as a producer for National Public Radio’s Car Talk . Brian Metzler is an author and freelance journalist who covers running, running gear, and related sports. He is the founding editor and associate publisher of Trail Runner and Adventure Sports magazines. Brendan Leonard is the creator of Semi-Rad.com and the author of eight books. His work has appeared in Alpinist, CNN, Outside, Men's Journal, National Geographic Adventure, Backpacker, Adventure Cyclist, and dozens of other publications. He is also a contributing editor at Adventure Journa l and The Dirtbag Diaries podcast. Brendan and his wife live in Denver. Marion Schreiber is a freelance art director and graphic designer with a focus on editorial design. She specializes in cookbooks, art books, and reference books and is based in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.