Running Shoes Are a Girl's Best Friend is a book with motivation and tips for running. Motivation is everything. There are so many reasons to run. Coach Pat Carroll, one of Australia's top distance runners ever: "It is really important to enjoy the journey rather than feel like it is something you have to do." Motivation evolves. Goals change. Many people start running without the plan to become a runner. Many begin with the goal to lose weight and / or gain fitness. You don't need to compete. Says Carroll, "The great thing about running is that everyone can have their own goals and everyone can walk away feeling incredible, whether it be in training or in competition." Running, though it may not be easy at first, makes you feel good. And, surprisingly, fitness improves very quickly. This book tells the stories of 53 women who run. Some have been running for decades, others began more recently. Some run for the simple pleasure it brings, while others race for finish lines.