First published 2012
Exercise leaves most people guessing. They wonder if their routine works, which classes deliver results, and whether they train enough. New York Times "Phys Ed" columnist Gretchen Reynolds addresses these common concerns with science-backed answers. She draws from current research on exercise's mental and physical effects, combining laboratory findings with real stories from researchers and everyday fitness enthusiasts. Reynolds explains how different types of movement affect the body and determines how much activity people actually need for health, fitness, and weight management. The book serves both serious athletes chasing performance gains and casual exercisers seeking basic fitness maintenance. Reynolds translates complex exercise science into practical guidance, helping readers design effective workouts whether they want faster race times or simply to stay in shape. Her approach cuts through fitness industry confusion with evidence-based recommendations for achieving specific goals.
Genres: science, non-fiction, health, fitness
Vibes: informative, practical, thought-provoking
Tropes: evidence-based, self-help
288 pages · Hardcover · Hudson Street Press