CAMDEN--Rutgers-Camden head cross country and track & field coach Joe Puleo co-authored his first book, entitled, “Running Anatomy,” which was recently released by Human Kintetics Publishers of Champaign, IL. The 200-page book, which will be available in bookstores by early January, combines four-color anatomical illustrations with text to show exercises to convey proper running form, maximize performance, reduce and rehabilitate injuries, improve gait efficiency and increase overall performance.

“The goal of the book is to provide all runners with a book that can help them improve their running and limit the amount of injuries they suffer through a better understanding of their body,” Puleo said.

The book features numerous detailed illustrations to explain exercises and techniques for strengthening a wide range of muscle groups needed to enhance performance and reduce injuries.

An English major during his undergraduate days at Elizabethtown College, Puleo admits he never thought about writing a non-fiction book. Two years ago, however, the editor selected him for the project, which was a joint venture with Dr. Patrick Milroy. Milroy, who has contributed to Runner’s World Magazine and several other publications, has served as the chief medical officer for the Road Runners Club in Great Britain since 1998.

“It’s been almost two years from when I was selected to write the book,” said Puleo, who has long been impressed with products by Human Kinetics. “The e-books they publish in running are some of the most respected in the industry. I’m really pleased with this book. It has exceeded our expectations.”

With the release of his first book, Puleo is preparing for the next part of his venture.

“We’re putting a book tour together,” Puleo said. “I’ll be going to San Diego and Orlando early in 2010.”

Puleo’s book tour will add to a busy coaching year at Rutgers-Camden. He completed his seventh season with the Scarlet Raptors’ cross country program during the fall and will coach his seventh year of outdoor track in the spring. The founder of Rutgers-Camden’s indoor track program, he currently is coaching the fifth indoor track teams in school history. During his tenure at Rutgers-Camden, Puleo’s squads have produced five All-Americans, including the only cross country and indoor track All-Americans in school history.