In this engaging collection of essays, author and athlete John Jerome celebrates the simplicity and freedom of running. With contagious passion, he strips away fads and myths to offer basic guidelines for participants, from beginning joggers to those preparing for marathons. For years Jerome recorded his thoughts and experiences during his daily training. As he ran, he discovered not only physical benefits, but philosophical ones as well. His wry reflections take you on a joyous journey through the most elemental aspects of the sport-stretching, falling, sweat, bugs, the food police, and more. A fount of prescriptions and wisdom, The Elements of Effort offers a disarming collection of ideas to mull over as you participate in your daily run. So grab your cassette player, lace up your running shoes, and enjoy narrator L.J. Ganser's entertaining performance.