From Publishers Weekly
As more people search for helpful hints on how to get and stay in shape, these authors offer their blueprint for success, a formula that's been used by hundreds of prominent figures, including President Bush. They base their philosophy on a quote from President John F. Kennedy: "Physical fitness is the basis for all other forms of excellence." The authors have extensive knowledge of the subject: Neck is a management professor, Mitchell served on Bush's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, Manz is a consultant and author and Thompson teaches a course on fitness for executives. While most of their material is meant to inspire people to start exercising, change their diet and overhaul their mind (using mental imagery and self-observation), their underlying message is that if readers get their bodies into shape, their minds will soon follow. And when their minds are sharper, they become stronger leaders. The copious examples of both individuals and companies who have answered the "fit to lead" challenge validate the book's basic premise (e.g., the founder of Domino's Pizza runs four miles a day; Columbia/HCA Healthcare's CEO uses time between flights to jog around airports). Procrastinators will especially benefit from the chapter "No More Excuses," where the authors give rebuttals for every possible exercise excuse. Even the busiest executive who claims she or he has no time to exercise will find a way to change lifestyle here, and while the book is geared towards business executives, workers of all stripes will find it rewarding.
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Review
"The information in this book can help you gain an advantage in achieving your goals, because the more fit you are, the better chance you have to win in the game of life."
--Frank Beamer, head football coach, Virginia Tech Hokies
"Fabulous book! I'm truly impressed by the straight-to-the-point information that helps sift through all the diet and nutrition myths. I would recommend Fit to Lead to all executives or anyone with a busy schedule. Clearly, this book offers the right ideas for becoming fit, staying healthy, having more energy...all of which create better productivity!"
--Sherry Ann Petta, president and founder, Especially Specialities, Inc.
"Reading Fit to Lead won't do a damn thing for you. Read and follow it, and you will take control of your life, both physically and mentally, forever."
--Arnold J. Kleiner, president and general manager, KABC-TV
"There's no doubt about it. The more fit I am, the more productive I am. If I'm exercising regularly and eating right, then I can better handle the stressors that I have to face every day as a busy executive. Fit to Lead truly contains a detailed program to help me achieve the optimal level of fitness necessary to be a top performer."
--Charles J. Barnard, senior vice president, southwest, regional director, Corporate Real Estate, Bank of America
"Finally, here's a book that acknowledges the vital link between fitness and leadership. Fit to Lead is a must-read for leaders of all organizations, and at all levels, from the mail room to the executive suite. The insights and practical advice provided are sure to improve the quality of life, not only for every reader, but also for the organizations they lead."
--Robert E. Ashcraft, director and associate professor, Center for Nonprofit Leadership and Management, Arizona State University
