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Exercised

The Science of Physical Activity, Rest and Health
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( 9,054 ratings, 1,001 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In Exercised by Daniel Lieberman, the author explores the science of human physical activity, debunking myths about exercise and revealing how our bodies are naturally adapted to physical activity. Lieberman provides historical and evolutionary context, offering insights into how modern lifestyles contrast with those of our ancestors. The book blends research with engaging storytelling to make the case for rethinking our cultural perspectives on exercise.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're curious about the science behind physical activity and want to understand how evolution shapes our exercise habits. It offers engaging insights into why we move the way we do and how it benefits our health.

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Exercised

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In Exercised, Daniel Lieberman dives deep into the heart of our modern attitudes towards exercise, scrutinising the reasons behind our often conflicted relationship with physical activity. Through an engaging narrative backed by years of evolutionary biology and anthropology research, Lieberman challenges the conventional wisdom about why we exercise and how we do it. His insights reveal a startling truth: humans are not naturally inclined to engage in voluntary exercise purely for fitness. Instead, our ancestors engaged in moderate, necessary physical exertion as a part of daily survival.

In industrialised nations, the rapid shift to sedentary lifestyles has led to an alarming rise in obesity and chronic diseases such as diabetes. Commonly, the prescribed antidote is regular exercise. However, many of us grapple with integrating fitness routines into our busy lives, often falling prey to myths, misconceptions, and societal pressures that breed anxiety and finger-pointing.

Exercised stands out as a ground-breaking work by a preeminent scholar. Lieberman eloquently deconstructs the myth that we are biologically programmed for sustained, intense physical activities like marathons or rigorous gym sessions. He argues that our bodies are optimized for natural, everyday movements that were vital for our ancestors’ survival, not modern feats of extreme fitness.

Leveraging more than a decade of pioneering scientific research, Lieberman meticulously explains how exercise can indeed enhance health, but only when approached correctly. He dispels prevalent myths about sitting, speed, strength, and endurance. For instance, he addresses the often demonised act of sitting, elucidating how it, in moderation, is not as detrimental as popularly believed. Lieberman also covers the benefits and appropriate levels of various forms of exercise, offering a balanced viewpoint that encourages sustainable and enjoyable physical activity.

Exercised skilfully navigates through complex scientific data and presents it in an accessible manner, making it a must-read for anyone looking to understand the true nature of human physical activity and how to cultivate a healthier lifestyle without guilt or undue stress. The book is a valuable resource that guides readers towards a more informed and harmonious approach to physical fitness in today’s fast-paced world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Exercised by Daniel Lieberman has been praised for its engaging and informative style, offering a compelling mix of scholarship and wit. Reviewers highlight its myth-busting insights into physical activity, its entertaining approach to health advice, and its ability to change perspectives on exercise and wellbeing. The book is noted for being both illuminating and enjoyable, with practical tips conveyed in a humorous, empathetic manner.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141986364

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 June 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 32.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 340g

Pages: 464

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About the Author

Daniel Lieberman is Edwin M. Lerner II Professor of Biological Sciences and a professor of the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University. He is a leading figure in the field of human evolution and its relevance to health. He is renowned for his research on the evolution of running, which he also enjoys himself - sometimes barefoot, earning him the nickname 'the Barefoot Professor'. He has published over 150 peer-reviewed articles, many of them in Nature and Science. His previous books include The Story of the Human Body. He lives in Massachusetts.

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