“Stephen Madden’s engaging, open, and funny book about how it changed his life—but kept him resolutely who he is—did away with all that: He finds the human side of the sport, the activity, and the community. A perfect introduction to a worldview that can change yours.” - Will Leitch, founder of Deadspin, contributing editor for New York magazine, and author of God Save the Fan and Are We Winning?
“Too few people are able or willing to plumb the depths of what sport, suffering, and physical challenge really mean to us. Here Stephen Madden gets far beyond any simple notions of winning, losing, going faster, or getting stronger, and goes to a place where triumph and failure become primal elements of life. What’s as impressive is that he comes back with such a well-told tale.” - Bill Strickland, editor-in-chief of Bicycling Magazine and author of Ten Points
“A book that seemed to be about tough-minded, solitary self-improvement for masters-of-the-universe types turned out to be a story about sharing, community, and love. That’s right! ...Turns out in sports, according to Madden, winning isn’t everything: It still matters how you play the game.” - Alex Gibney, Academy Award-winning writer and director of Taxi to the Dark Side
“The numerous workout anecdotes will entertain the CrossFit faithful, but Madden’s well-written personal narrative may appeal to a more general fitness audience.” - Booklist
“Even if you’ve never lifted a kettlebell, you’ll be fascinated by Madden’s view of the challenges and psychology behind the phenomenon.” - Self Magazine
“Madden’s entertaining and inspiring fitness memoir is ultimately about life, love, and so much more.” - Reader’s Digest
“Surprisingly personal and compelling…Madden’s epiphanies are genuine, and well rendered…. He may be subpar as an athlete. He’s far, far above that as a writer.” - SportsIllustrated.com