THE THOOSA REVIEW

Thoosa reviews the October issue of Men's Running

Having found Women’s Running to be such a great magazine we thought we’d take a sneak peak at the new boys version, the launch edition of Men’s Running. The UK’s first running magazine just for men.

I felt like a bit of a cheat reading this, I’m obviously (I hope obviously!) not the target audience. But I must admit I think women find it easier to read men’s magazines than the other way round. Our magazines seem to be packed with pictures of slim women, providing, apparent, inspiration. Men’s magazines are often packed full of pictures of the same (a weird world). Incredibly this one is not! In fact there were lots of lovely shots of men and their bulging calf muscles, enough to brighten up any grey Monday morning. In addition, it also provides a different approach, a different view of running.

Like its sister edition it’s full of interesting features, nutritional tips and expert knowledge. However, in contrast, instead of a “Weight Loss” section in the Contents page the men’s addition has a “Man vs Food” category, focussing on the “indisputable proof that (some) fat is the future”. Also, visually it seems to have more of an impact, the pictures are more dominant and overall the magazine seems less bitty. If weight loss isn’t your main objective for running then this magazine provides a refreshing alternative.

There are great articles which are definitely not for the exclusive interest of men. Being a huge fan of Ellie Goulding, and because I love running to music, I was really excited to read about her Run Into The Light mixtape. Made in collaboration with Radio 1’s Alex Metric, it’s intended to be the perfect, uplifting accompaniment to a half-hour run. I couldn’t wait to download it.

Most enjoyable was an article written about Chris Brasher. I’m ashamed to admit I knew nothing of this great runner, an Olympian and a true visionary. Having witnessed the New York marathon he, “pressured and persuaded the nation to accept running as a perfectly reasonable hobby”, the London marathon was born, and with it, a whole nation was inspired. The impact that this would have on the concept of running as a past-time, to the nation’s attitude to fitness, to its health, even to how it would raise money for charity cannot be underestimated. Reading about this man truly inspired me, not just to run but in my attitude and approach to my whole day. Exactly the sort of article I want from a magazine.

So, don’t be put off by the title. This magazine was great. Maybe I wouldn’t buy a copy for myself. I do think I’d stick to the Women’s edition. However, if I saw a copy lying around I would definitely read it again. Running is universal, not dependant on gender and inspiration can be found in lots of places, including this magazine.