Swift summary: A lethargic British woman signs up for the London Marathon – even though she's barely run a metre since elementary school.
Best for: People whose bodies seize up after two blocks and think they can't run. (You can.)
Swift summary: A former Olympian, now 104, reflects on 1920s Canada, when competitive running was considered out of reach for women.
Best for: People who prefer a well-paced fictional take on a jog.
Swift summary: An ultra-runner clocks 320 kilometres through the Himalayas, from Everest base camp to Kathmandu.
Best for: People who are ready to graduate from asphalt to mountain peaks.
Swift summary: A meditation on men, marathons and the pain and self-discovery that comes with them both.
Best for: People who find it reassuring to view their relationships as winding marathon routes.
Swift summary: Eleven writers (eight of whom are women) each share a memorable run in the dark.
Best for: People who fear things that go bump in the night — or just need a little motivation to get up before the sun.
Related: Cute new running gear that isn't hot pink Finally — a running shoe built for women Run like a girl: everything you need to hit the pavement
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