Sweat: A History of Exercise

Sweat is a cultural, scientific, literary, and personal history of exercise that has been largely overlooked, but Bill Hayes' book brings it to life, chronicling how it has evolved over time and dissecting the dynamics of human movement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Sweat, a captivating work by Jane Fonda, delves into the captivating tale of exercise across millennia. This remarkable book does what great history books should—it brings the past to life in a profoundly human way. The Times praises it as a "cultural, scientific, literary, and personal history of exercise." Author Bill Hayes, known for his versatile writing skills, has masterfully tackled a wide range of subjects, leaving readers delighted. In Sweat, Hayes takes us on a journey through the origins of various forms of exercise, exploring how they have evolved over time. He delves into the intricate dynamics of human movement, offering a fresh perspective on this modern obsession. While many historical figures make appearances in Sweat, the central figure is Girolamo Mercuriale, a Renaissance-era Italian physician who dedicated his life to reviving the ancient Greek "art of exercising." Through his 1569 book, De arte gymnastica, Mercuriale's ideas and illustrations come to life, adding depth and richness to the narrative. As Hayes intertwines his personal experiences with the cultural and scientific history of exercise, from ancient times to the present day, he provides a unique understanding of its significance in our lives in the 21st century. Sweat is a must-read for anyone interested in history, fitness, or the human body, offering a captivating and enlightening journey through time.

Weight: 216g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526662569