Ten years ago, Martinus Evans got some stern advice from his doctor: 'Lose weight or die.'

First defensive, but then defiant, Evans vowed that day to run a marathon, though his doctor thought he was crazy. Since then, Evans has run eight marathons and hundreds of other distances in his 300-something body, created his own devoted running community, and has been featured on the cover of Runner's World.

This book is a blueprint for those who may not fit the image of a 'traditional' runner - that is, someone who is larger in size, less athletic, out of shape, or dealing with any kind of health issue that slows them down - to feel empowered to lace up their shoes and embrace the body they have right now.

As Evans says, the incredible benefits of running - better sleep, strong muscles and bones, better cardiovascular and mental health, and a sense of community - can and should be available to all of us.