Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek

Eat & Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek is an inspiring memoir that discusses endurance running, plant-based nutrition, and personal transformation. Jurek, one of the most accomplished ultramarathon runners in history, shares his journey from a small-town kid in Minnesota to a world-class athlete dominating grueling races like the Western States 100, Badwater 135, and Spartathlon.

The book explores Jurek’s humble beginnings, growing up in a blue-collar family with a mother suffering from multiple sclerosis. His early life was shaped by hardship, but he developed a relentless work ethic that fueled his passion for running. Initially a skeptic of plant-based diets, Jurek eventually embraced veganism and found that it enhanced his endurance, recovery, and overall performance.

Alongside his personal story, Eat & Run provides practical advice on running and nutrition, including plant-based recipes and training tips. Jurek also reflects on the mental and emotional challenges of ultrarunning, emphasizing the importance of mindset, resilience, and pushing beyond limits.

As a whole, the group really enjoyed this book, with two people rating it 10/10. Eat & Run was so impactful that one member was convinced to start running and had even signed up for a race later in the week. Another (who had previously read it) had considered this book his bible while he trained for ultras, cooked vegan, and attested to the same growth and recovery that Jurek proclaimed.

Specific questions we discussed:

• What were your initial impressions of Scott Jurek? 

• What do you think drives Jurek to push his body to such extremes? 

• The book blends memoir, training philosophy, and nutrition advice. Did you enjoy this mix?

• Do you agree suffering is a key part of life and running?

• Did your perspective on veganism and athleticism?

• What do you think of the recipes included in the book? Have you tried or would you try any of them?

• Were you surprised that Jurek transitioned to a plant-based diet despite initial skepticism? 

We discussed the theme "Sometimes you just do things!" and the mindset and drive of an ultrarunner: is it nature or nurture that makes a successful ultrarunner?

Furthermore, we chatted about the physical vs mental aspect of running, the way running can be addictive, and how running can alter the consciousness. All of us have had varying experiences and relationships with running and eating plant-based, so it was wonderful to relate to each other and bond over this common activity. And of course, having our monthly food theme as vegan meant delicious dishes to snack on: white bean & kale salad, Thai curry, vegan cheesecake, and Minnesotan chili (courtesy of Scott Jurek's recipe).

Group mean rating: 8/10