That was the question on my mind, when I was considering a subscription. Isn't there only so much you can say about socks, shoes, and long runs? I took a chance anyways.
Now, I eagerly anticipate new issues, and read 'em cover to cover in about a day. I agree with that other reviewer who says it's too short!
So who is this magazine for?
Well, it's true that this magazine seems focused on beginning/intermediate runners. Running mortals. But I can't imagine expert runners, not enjoying it though. At that point, you're eating, drinking, breathing running, you may as well do some light reading. I can't picture what an "expert" running magazine is. Analyzing splits of recent races? Articles on strategies of how to beat Haile in that next 10k, Paul? This is what a coach is for, anyways.
Fundamentally, I think Runner's World is aimed at people who want to embrace a running lifestyle.
Content
The magazine sticks almost exclusively to street running and racing. Occassionally, it'll talk about ultra-marathons (like a recent article on the Comrades Ultra), or make mention of trail running, but that is not its focus. The issues seem to follow themes, for example after Ryan Hall broke the American half-marathon record, we were treated to advice on half-marathon training, where to find unique halfs, lots of speed training advice. The standard road race distances: 5k, 10k, half and full marathon (training guide, advice, etc) usually get covered within a year. It's true that there may be more focus on the longer races, but in truth, training for those races take a bit more planning, attention, and dedication. There's more to talk about.
There is usually one or two human interest story in each issue.
In addition to cover and feature stories, there are monthly columns are as follows:
Human Race
A short column on runners who achieve something different than just a new best time, or record (eg. Hajime Nishi's conservation efforts, or Jeanne Stawiecki being the first woman to complete the 7-7-7 challenge).
Training
Articles on how to get faster, how to run longer, or how just to maintain fitness during lull periods.
Mind + Body
A great column that may teach you a new better way to stretch, how to overcome mental blocks, or even how to know when to quit.
Personal Record
Personal stories about running. Sometimes funny, sometimes thought provoking.
No Need for Speed
John Bingham's column from the back of the pack, reminding us that we can run for fun.
Gear
A very useful tool for learning about new gear. Did you know cotton is the devil? Neither did I until I ran until I bled.
Racing Report
I skim this. It's mostly a roundup of recent races and time, but also includes a calendar of upcoming races (I usually use www.theschedule.com for that).
I'm a Runner
A great Q&A column with celebrities who are runners. I really enjoy learning who I share this interest with!
Quality
I have picked up some really useful tips from the magazine. Learning about tempo running, and track workouts has been key for gaining some speed. Learning that each run should have a purpose, I'm ok with my long runs being slow, and that's helping me stay injury free. I learnt exercises on how to prevent "runner's knee". All of this helps to keep you running, and to hit your goals.
The human interest stories are terrific reading. From "My Dog Saved My Life", July 2007, that had me in tears over Danelle Ballengee's tale of being saved by her canine running partner after shattering her pelvis in a fall, to "Henry II" in Sept 2007, about Henry Rono who ended up homeless after setting world records, and his current attempt at redemption.
The gear reviews really help to keep you informed. You got to make your own choice, of course, but knowing features up front, or even learning about products and brands you didn't know existed can really save time.
The recipes in the magazine are fantastic!! Nutritious, delicious, and they look great, it reinforces the point of running being a "lifestyle".
Oh, and I even like the ads. They're often quirky, and really have an understanding of the target audience.
Summary
Runner's World offers great tips, and advice, whether you follow it or not. There's usually something valuable there to take away. The stories are interesting, very readable, and often motivating or inspirational. All in all, Runner's World will help make your world, a runner's world. For $19.99 a year, that's pretty cheap! So I'll stick around and see how much longer than can continue to talk about socks, shoes, and long runs and still be interesting.
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