TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

In For The Long Run

ADVERTISEMENT

By MARY SHEDDEN | The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 28, 2007

Diets weren't the only craze on the bestsellers list in 1978.

James Fixx's "The Complete Book of Running" took the fitness world by storm in 1978. Participation in road races and marathons skyrocketed. Jogging became one of the most popular modes of exercise for Americans determined to get fit.

But unlike the now outdated Scarsdale Medical Diet, "The Complete Book of Running" seems to stand the test of time. Its advice, though admittedly annoyingly passionate about the sport, remains solid today, says Mark Misner, a veteran runner and personal trainer.

"A lot of people who influenced me still live by it," says Misner, owner of Body By Design — Personal Trainers of Tampa.

Fixx's life story was a big part of the book's appeal. He was a two-pack-a-day smoker and 60 pounds overweight when he began running. His passion related to the masses; addressed people of different ages and interests; and hit on today's critical training mantras, such as proper stretching and wearing the right shoes.

Fixx's untimely death in 1984 of a heart attack while running did dampen some of the book's popularity. But Misner said he would gladly welcome another running book, TV show or software programs if it could have a similar impact.

"Anything that can influence in a positive manner that isn't a quick fix, I'm all for it," he says. "As a community, we need it. As a nation, we need it."

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT