Anytime Fitness CEO Chuck Runyon's brother died during heart transplant surgery at the age of 17, a tragedy that motivated Runyon to help others recognize and embrace the importance of nutrition and fitness in their lives. Although Working Out Sucks focuses on the day-to-day changes in diet and activity required for health and fitness, Runyon's mission is much larger: he firmly believes that fitness increases self-esteem, which in turn improves one's ability to acquire an education, secure a higher paying job and contribute to society.
Working Out Sucks begins by dismantling common excuses for avoiding healthy choices--lack of time, money or motivation--then showcases inspiring stories of Anytime Fitness clients who have successfully lost weight, explaining how to emulate their successes through the use of vision, skills and community support. Subsequent sections tackle nutrition--specifically regarding carbohydrates, fiber, protein, fat, water and supplements--and ways to incorporate more movement into each day, culminating in a 21-day plan for changing habits that includes recipes and workout itineraries.
Although Runyon's advice is geared toward beginners, even the fittest readers will find value in this accessible guide to a healthier lifestyle. In addition, all proceeds go to Limbs for Life, an organization that helps individuals who need prosthetic care. "Yes, working out sucks," Runyon concedes, "but you shouldn't have to lose a limb to appreciate the ones you have." --Kristen Galles from Book Club Classics