Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes

It has been a long time since a book inspired me to do more, to become more, to strive harder than I have ever before. Ultramarathon Man has done just this, literally. I already enjoy running quite a bit and am slowly but steadily increasing my endurance. I was going to go out for an 8 mile run but after reading about Karnazes' first Western States 100 I pushed it to 13.1 miles, the longest training run I have ever done. Of course it was my desire, but it was Karnazes' inspirational book that lit a fire under my ass.

I don't mean inspiration as in sappy and that cheesy bravado of "you can do it, I know you can" kind of way. His is the best kind of inspiration, the kind that inspires by doing. To feel as though I experienced his Ultra races at Western States, Badwater, South Pole and the 199 mile Relay is a great achievement, a testament to his abilities as a runner and a writer. Much props must go to Karnazes. In fact almost too much as I oftentimes found myself shaking my head and smiling, saying "this guy is crazy".

Karnazes is history in the making, achieving feats that no other human has ever done. His tenacity is awe inspiring and, more importantly, his view on life is commendable. Even if you are not a runner you should run out and read this book. For it isn't too often that you can pick up a book to read about the trials and tribulations of one man and become inspired to want to do more with your own life.