The Athlete's Way

Starred review from December 31, 2007
A Triple Ironman record-breaker and the son of a neuroscience researcher, Bergland argues that exercise is as much about the mind as it is about the body, making athletes not just healthier, but happier, smarter and more well-adjusted. An overview of Bergland's own story, “The Brain Science of Sport†and positive psychology provide a detailed but easy-to-follow foundation for his eight-week exercise program and the concepts that shape it, such as “flow†(that “in the zone†state) and “cross talk†(the dialogue between the cerebrum and the cerebellum). Bergland shares his workout secrets, and illustrates simple exercises and stretches targeting the major muscle groups, but emphasizes that the most significant challenge is in committing to the full 56-day regimen; consistency will cause the brain to become “restructured,†literally, giving readers not just a lifelong appetite for exercise but a “happier, more agile, sharper, and less stressed out†mind. Bergland's sincerity, enthusiasm and experience are beyond question, though readers might at times question his sanity (as when chronicling his record-breaking, near-fatal 24-hour treadmill run). Fortunately, Bergland has more realistic expectations for the reader, and provides common sense tips on everything from eating to sleeping to gearing up to developing a positive mindset. Friendly, heartfelt writing; uncompromising attention to detail; and flagless enthusiasm make this book both a comprehensive plan and an encouraging partner for long-term, life-changing fitness goals.