Book Review - Exercised by Daniel Lieberman

Exercised by Daniel Lieberman

Exercised is the first book of its kind by a leading scientific expert. Daniel Lieberman is an anthropologist, who examines the concept of exercise and lifestyle from an evolutionary perspective. He concludes that humans never evolved to exercise. They are hardwired for moderate exertion throughout each day, not triathlons or treadmills. Drawing on over a decade of high-level scientific research and eye-opening insights from evolutionary biology and anthropology, Lieberman explains precisely how exercise can promote health.

He considers the ways in which modern, industrialised societies have created a lifestyle that is contrary to evolutionary expectations, and how this has been accompanied by the emergence of new, and unexpected, diseases and health issues. Each chapter seeks to debunk a different myth about activity, lifestyle and the implications for health. This includes considerations of sitting, speed, strength and endurance; and points the way towards more enjoyable and physically active living in the modern world. The place of diet, and the implications of industrialised food, is examined alongside the impact of exercise on a series of diseases of civilisation. This includes explanation of the science behind the emergence of health issues, and provides practical advice on the type and intensity of exercises necessary to achieve positive health impacts.

This book will be appealing to teachers in giving them a clear understanding of the place of exercise in improving life, as well as equipping them to educate children on improved lifestyles.