LEARN THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE SPORT – BOOK REVIEW

LEARN THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE SPORT – BOOK REVIEW

Kate Dzienis • June 29, 2020

By Kate Dzienis

Science of Running: Analyse Your Technique, Prevent Injury, Revolutionalise Your Training was released earlier in the year, in February, and explains the hard science that can help runners of all abilities to go faster, endure for longer and avoid injury.

Written by Chris Napier, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver with a PhD in running biomechanics and injury prevent, the publication goes intensely through the muscle groups and bodily systems involved when it comes to being an effective runner.

If you enjoy learning about the science behind our favourite behaviour, then you’ll enjoy seeing, in high colour CGI illustrations, things like how a runner’s stride is broken down scientifically, what goes on under the skin at every stage of the running cycle, and how to correct a non-natural gait for the prevention of injury.

Science of Running looks at the science behind nutrition and hydration and includes custom 360 training programs based on hard science for all levels of athletes, from morning joggers to marathoners and beyond.

Understand the mechanics behind your body’s energy systems and how to train to maximise energy storage and conversion; Science of Running by Chris Napier is definitely a publication worthy of reading and holding onto for future reference.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Published by Penguin Books
Released: Out Now
RRP: $40-$45

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IN OTHER NEWS

By Dave Martin March 14, 2026
AUTRA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Wednesday 15 April 2026
March 12, 2026
AUTRA has been in direct contact with the organisers of the Snowies Trail Run Festival, In2Adventure, regarding a recent situation involving an athlete and the event’s in‑person safety briefing requirements. In2Adventure has confirmed that the situation was discussed directly with the athlete at the time.​ From In2Adventure’s account, and for the purpose of clarifying the public record, AUTRA notes the following points:​ At no stage was the athlete prevented from breastfeeding at the event.​ The organiser states that the following options were offered to enable the athlete to participate while still meeting safety requirements: a quiet and private space where she could breastfeed while still being present at the briefing; the option to receive the required briefing at the 30 km start line after the start; and the option to change her registration to the 21 km event, where the briefing is conducted on the start line.​ At no stage prior to event registration on Saturday night did the athlete contact the organiser to advise of her situation or request alternative arrangements, which limited what could be put in place at the time.​ Face‑to‑face safety briefings have always been a requirement for In2Adventure events.
By Kate Dzienis March 12, 2026
Results for 2026 Lark Hill Party Ultra, Belair Marathon, Mirrim Wurnit Back Paddock Ultra, and Coombabah Trail Run.
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