Exercised: The Science of Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health is a book written by Daniel E. Lieberman, an American primatologist and professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard University. The book explores the history of physical activity and exercise, the science behind it, and how it affects our health. Lieberman argues that human beings are not naturally sedentary and that exercise is an essential part of our lives.
In the first chapter, Lieberman discusses the evolution of physical activity and how it has shaped our bodies. He argues that our ancestors were not sedentary and that physical activity was an integral part of their lives. Lieberman also discusses how our bodies have evolved to adapt to physical activity and how it has made us stronger, faster, and more resilient.
In the second chapter, Lieberman looks at the history of exercise and how it has evolved over time. He discusses how exercise has been used for various purposes, including military training, religious rituals, and competitive sports. Lieberman also discusses how exercise has been used to treat various medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
In the third chapter, Lieberman discusses the science behind physical activity and exercise. He explains how physical activity affects our bodies at the molecular and cellular level, how it affects our hearts and lungs, and how it can improve our mental health. Lieberman also discusses how exercise can help prevent and treat various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
In the fourth chapter, Lieberman looks at the benefits of physical activity and exercise. He discusses how exercise can improve our physical health, including our muscles, bones, and cardiovascular system. Lieberman also discusses how exercise can improve our mental health, including our mood, cognitive function, and ability to cope with stress.
In the fifth chapter, Lieberman discusses the risks associated with physical activity and exercise. He explains how injuries can occur and how to prevent them. Lieberman also discusses how excessive exercise can be harmful and how to avoid overdoing it.
In the sixth chapter, Lieberman discusses how to incorporate physical activity and exercise into our lives. He provides tips on how to stay motivated, how to find activities we enjoy, and how to make exercise a habit. Lieberman also discusses how to overcome barriers to exercise, such as lack of time, money, or motivation.
In the conclusion, Lieberman summarizes the benefits of physical activity and exercise and provides a call to action. He argues that exercise is an essential part of our lives and that we should make it a priority. Lieberman also discusses how we can work towards a more active society and how we can make physical activity and exercise more accessible to everyone.
Overall, Exercised is a comprehensive guide to the science of physical activity and exercise. Lieberman provides a wealth of information on the history, science, and benefits of exercise, as well as tips on how to incorporate it into our lives. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or just looking to learn more about the benefits of exercise, Exercised is a must-read.
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