Robson presents numerous tricks of the mind to move us forward, including visualization and reframing our beliefs about progress.

... one of Robson’s many strengths as a chronicler of science is to take what might seem familiar and show – to his own evident excitement, as well – just how much deeper the rabbit hole goes. You knew about the placebo effect. But did you know it often works, a little mind-bendingly, even when the patient knows they’re taking a placebo?.

At times this self-help element feels like an afterthought. Thinking about how I hope to feel at the end of a run isn’t going to persuade me to get off the sofa.

... absorbing.

... comprehensive if dry.