
Member Reviews

Cory Wharton-Malcolm’s All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit is an exhilarating and insightful exploration of running and the perseverance required to pursue one’s passions. Through a compelling blend of personal anecdotes and cultural analysis, Wharton-Malcolm delves into the intersection of rhythm, resilience, and identity in the world of running.
The book takes readers on a journey through Wharton-Malcolm’s own experiences as a runner. With candid reflections and engaging storytelling, the author sheds light on the dedication and grit needed to excel in the sport. His narrative vividly captures both the physical and mental challenges of running, offering an inspiring look at the effort and commitment required to achieve personal goals.
What sets All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit apart is its honest portrayal of the highs and lows of the running journey. The book not only highlights the triumphs but also addresses the struggles and setbacks that come with pursuing a running career. Overall, All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit is a must-read for both marathoners and beginner runners, providing a heartfelt and motivating look at the journey of following one’s dreams and the people met along the way. Personally I loved that the author narrated this audiobook!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity of listen to this book.

All You Need is Rhythm & Grit by Cory Wharton-Malcolm is a wonderful reminder that it’s never too late to start something new. Wharton-Malcolm introduces the reader to his life, how he fell in love with running, and now what running means to him. The context of Wharton-Malcom’s introduction to running, from suddenly deciding to run a marathon after seeing a colleague, to the catharsis and freedom achieved by confronting grief while running, to the mental and physical health benefits of running. Wharton-Malcolm’s experience with running is comforting and reassuring that anyone can do the same. His extensive advice to new runners is so helpful – from what clothes and shoes to choose, to training, to joining a running club, he provides great and science-backed advice for any new runner.
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audiobook; hearing from the author was so nice. I recommend this book to anyone interested in beginning their own running journey. Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this advanced copy of the audiobook! All opinions are my own.

I love running and I enjoyed listening to the author narrating his book.
Had never heard of the author but after listening to this came across some articles by him too.

This is a book I will recommend at large to folks inside the running community or ones who are interested in joining said community. I really appreciated this unique voice inside running and perspective. Corey narrated the audiobook so it was like hearing from a friend telling you their life story. Now as far as if it’s inspired me to get back into running…. Doubtful but I might try to do it occasionally vs. not at all like currently lol. 🤣 thanks to NetGalley for the AudioArc.

Once again I find myself kicking myself for sitting on an ALC that blows my mind once I finally getting around to listening. I think Cory narrating his own book just added to the perfection.
I didn’t 100% know what I was getting into with this one. These types of books can go either way. Too overwhelming and less motivating, especially while trying to be motivational, or just right. This book fell under the latter. From the beginning I was invest. I was hooked. I even felt emotionally worked up when he spoke about the feeling of the crowd’s support running a half marathon for the first time.
As a former runner, trying to get back into running postpartum, Cory was just what I needed right now. His words, especially his words out loud, really hit home. I felt validated and he reiterated a lot of what I learned as a runner, but with his own experience. It was nice to hear it all still works. And you get the bonus of workouts in the book.
I know Dreamscape Media was amazing enough to provide me with an ALC, but I will definitely be buying a physical copy for my collection. It was too good to not read and annotate.
Thanks so much Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ALC.

This book was a great reminder to take running at my own pace. I appreciated Cory's positive attitude and approach to running. This audiobook gave practical advice such as running workouts and warm up routines and motivation to keep going when it gets hard. It was nice hearing about a running journey from someone who didn't start until well into adulthood.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.
In the accessible and inclusive audiobook, “All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit,” running coach Cory Wharton-Malcolm invites listeners to lace up their sneakers and embark on a transformative running journey. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a complete beginner, this audiobook offers valuable insights, motivation, and practical advice.
What’s It About?
Cory Wharton-Malcolm challenges the notion that running is only for the super-fit or ultra-athletic. Instead, he celebrates running as an egalitarian sport—one that embraces people of all genders, body types, identities, and backgrounds. Through personal anecdotes, Cory shares how running positively impacted his mental and physical health, from overcoming trauma to finding purpose and joy.
Key Takeaways:
Inclusivity: Wharton-Malcolm advocates for a more inclusive running culture. He believes that everyone, regardless of their body size or shape, can benefit from running.
Fueling: The audiobook provides practical tips on fueling during runs. Wharton-Malcolm’s approach is refreshingly real—he acknowledges that different strategies work for different people, even if it involves dipping pizza in Coca-Cola!
Cardio Confidence: Running isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s also about building “cardio confidence.” Cory shares how running helped him tap into resilience and self-assurance.
Why You Should Listen:
Authenticity: Wharton-Malcolm’s honesty about the pains and joys of running makes this audiobook relatable and inspiring.
Motivation: Whether you’re a couch potato or a seasoned runner, his words will nudge you to take that first step (or stride) toward a healthier, happier you.
Narration: As the narrator, Cory Wharton-Malcolm infuses his passion and enthusiasm into every word, making the audiobook engaging and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts:
“All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit” is waiting on the other side of a metaphorical door. Open it, and let Cory guide you toward a more fulfilling running experience—one that celebrates rhythm, resilience, and the sheer joy of movement. 🏃♂️💪

I've been running consistently for about a year or so now, though have done virtually no reading on it. I just shove on my shoes and away I go. Partially I feel like that is due to really wanting to listen to my own body and not trying to fit my running into what someone else thinks I should be doing. So, I wasn't sure about this book. But I actually really liked it and got a lot of good information from it.
I think why I liked this book so much is that it's very much the story of the author and he reiterates this many times and really stresses figuring out what works best for you and doing that, and then he gives some helpful tips that you can take or leave. It was a quick read, divided into several different sections. From showing a variety of different ways to structure your running week to nutrition to suggested strength training and more.
After reading this book I'm actually really motivated to be more intentional in my running practice and to make some short and longer term goals.
Definitely a good read if you are looking at starting to run or are stagnating a bit (that would be me!).

All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit (How to Run Now, for Health, Joy, and a Body That Loves You Back) by Cory Wharton-Malcolm
Narrated by Cory Wharton-Malcolm
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Health, Mind & Body, Nonfiction (Adult), Sports
Expected Publication Date: May 7, 2024
All You Need Is Rhythm & Grit by Cory Wharton-Malcolm is an inspirational book for runners at all stages.
First off, I loved the narration by the author. You could tell he had fun with this book and his personality shone through. Plus, I loved his accent! This felt more like a conversation with an old friend than a monologue.
This is a great resource, especially for someone who is thinking about starting to run. I loved hearing about his experiences and he shared some great tips!
This is a quick read and I recommend giving it a chance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audiobook of All You Need is Rhythm & Grit by Cory Wharton-Malcolm.
I really enjoyed what Cory brought to this book. He did a great job narrating the book.
You go through Cory's firsthand experience of becoming a runner. He gives you lots of tips and tricks. For example - buy running socks...they make them for a reason (blisters), if you enjoy running in the evening but plan on running in a race make sure to do a few runs in the morning because that is usually when they are scheduled, running is good for you not just physically but also mentally.
Getting back into running or for a first-time runner it can be daunting. Running is for everyone, not just those who are just fit and active.
Thanks for the audiobook!

This book was a fantastic encouraging book on getting into running. I am an avid runner, having run everything from local 5Ks to 55K ultramarathons over the last few years. Along with that, I've read countless running books and find myself always looking for another to recommend. This book was great not only for seasoned runners but also for those looking for the encouragement to start running. Cory tackles all aspects of running from the difficulty getting out the door to the many ailments that runners can suffer from and how to treat (or prevent them). I would highly recommend this book for others looking to get into running!

Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio arc! I started running 6 months ago and this book was a great reminder of why I love running and how much more I can do as a recreational runner! Very practical for people who are getting into running. It gives you warm ups, cross training tips, drills, etc. Plus, I loved the community focus!

3.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book early. This is part motivational, part how-to start and improve your running. I don't know Cory Wharton-Malcolm, but from what I gathered he started running as a means of losing weight, but what he found in the sport is so much more than weight management. He gives a ton of information about different kinds of running, races, training styles, dietary choices, etc. as well as advice on what kind of entertainment (or lack thereof) to have when running, how to get better, etc. I would say this is more of a how-to book with encouragement along the way that you don't have to have anything special to be a runner- you just have to run. Its so good for your physical and mental health- just do it. This book is not really for me in this stage of life because I have a lot of things going on that don't allow me to be the runner I want to be (hey-kids!) but it was still fun to read about and may help me coach my kids better when they get older. I also didn't love how much impact diet culture has on this book and his worldview. Weight management is a side effect of running for some, but its not a guarantee or a reason to run in my opinion. He emphasizes listening to your body, which is great, but also talks about weight more than I would like. Overall this is a good book, just had a few things I didn't love and of course its not the most applicable for me right now, but I knew that going in.

The timing of this book is perfect as I have just restarted the couch to 5k for the 3rd time but never actually achieved 5k despite completing the program.
The book is read by the writer and unlike many who narrate their own books he is perfect, enthusiastic but natural and very clear.
I wasn't sure if I could listen through an entire book about running but actually completed it in one session while sewing. It held my interest and I will listen to some parts over again especially the exercise tips. I wish I had bookmarked them!
This is not just a book about running, it's about improving your physical health in general and very importantly your mental health. It's about meeting people who have a common interest or running on your own. I need to try the tip about running without listening to the audio books that I use to trick myself into thinking I am enjoying the run. That way I will see how I feel and sound and just experience the run. I am a bit sceptical that this will work for me as I am a hobby runner and don't enjoy it so far but I am willing to give it a try.
Some of the book is way beyond where I can ever see myself, I never intend to run more than 10k let alone a marathon, but it was interesting nonetheless.
The only downside was not having access to the pdf that is mentioned and contains the exercises rather than just listening to them.
Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscapeab for the DRC. It was much appreciated.

This audiobook was a win for me!
As someone who is trying to become a runner, I’ve given multiple books / audiobooks a go to attempt to motivate me or teach me that I can in fact run. None of them worked until All You Need is Rhythm & Grit.
This is one of the first books about running where I didn’t feel like I was listening to or reading an instruction manual. The author / narrator was engaging and it felt more like I was having a conversation with a friend. The informational aspects of the book were given in a way that was easy to digest while thinking about my own life and habits in the moment.
Not only was the content easy to digest, I was able to listen to the audiobook while walking / jogging. It was nice to be able to attempt some of the tips and tricks while actually listening to the book.
Coach Cory is also very personable and his narration style is fantastic. I found myself googling his podcast and looking him up on Apple Fitness.
This book truly is perfect for someone who is trying to become a runner, or just become more athletic in general.

Despite a huge mountain of TBR in front of me, I couldn't help myself to request this ARC audiobook. Then I ignored all the other ARCs I already have and other books I needed to read, and dove right into this book. Boy, was I glad to have "met" this book!
I would say this book would be perfect for anyone who is curious about picking up running. It's for beginners who might have never even thought of running is for them. As an avid runner myself, I love this book because it is very approachable. Your shape and size and age and fitness do not matter. As Coach Cory says, running is for everyone, and it is such a wonderful tool to expand your horizons. You will find it is a great stress buster, it will lift your mood and it will help you sleep better. It is one of the least expensive sports to start (although you can spend a lot of money if you want to enter races or collect gadgets), you don't need partners or teams (although I can attest running communities are truly awesome wherever you go as Coach Cory mentions in the book), and you can do it pretty much anywhere. I LOVE running. I used to hate running though. So I understand you all haters of running. Coach Cory wants you to know how awesome running is, and I can't agree more.
The audiobook is awesomely narrated by Coach Cory, and it will motivate you.
I listen to this audiobook while running myself, but I really liked the section where he talks about "shut off everything and listen to yourself run" - this is a very good reminder and the biggest take away for me. I have read a number of running books in the past, there is nothing earth-shatteringly new in this book - and that is by design. It's written for beginners.
One aspect I really wished to be included in the book is running forms. Having poor postures can result in injuries, and I wished that there was more focus on running forms so that beginners won't start with bad postures and get injured. However, I also understand how important to just start running without thinking too much about it including postures and outfits and whatnot as well. There are a lot of resources including other books and videos online, so I would highly encourage to at least get a few tips on running forms before running.
Thank you Cory for getting this book out there! It is my top book thus far in 2024 publication.
An advance copy of this audiobook was provided courtesy of Dreamscape Media and NetGalley in exchange with my honest opinions.

Review of “All You Need is Rhythm & Grit: How to Run Now―for Health, Joy, and a Body That Loves You Back”
Cory Wharton-Malcolm
Audio Available May 7/2024
Check it Out on Goodreads!!
Disclaimer: Please note that I received an Audio ARC from Netgalley and Dreamscape Media, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“All You Need is Rhythm & Grit” by Cory Wharton-Malcom is a game-changer, teaching readers the power of embracing their emotions, staying prepared, and finding success through proper training and individuality in running.
This book isn’t just about running—it’s about mental and physical wellness. Wharton-Malcom encourages readers to acknowledge and express their feelings, emphasizing that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. With workout routines and practical advice, he shows how running can be a transformative journey for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or body type.
From preparing effectively to crossing the finish line, Wharton-Malcom emphasizes the importance of visualization, pacing, and perseverance. Through his own experiences and those of others, he demonstrates that running is not just about physical endurance but also about resilience and community.
“All You Need is Rhythm & Grit” is a vibrant and inclusive guide that celebrates the joy of running while promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to harness the power of running to improve their overall well-being and embrace their true potential.
Get it at…
📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo
Amazon Canada
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo
Kindle
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible
Libro.FM

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced audiobook copy. I truly enjoyed this book. I am not a runner or in good physical shape so I was looking for something that would help me get motivated. And this book is just what I needed.