This fascinating book covers the development of the philosophy and practice of physical fitness in the United States. Despite the influence of Theodore Roosevelt's ebullient sportsmanship, McKenzie explains, the country as a whole did not begin to think in terms of exercise until after World War II. President Eisenhower's President's Council for Youth Fitness grew out of concern that draftees were being found unfit for military service. President Kennedy's President's Council on Physical Fitness continued this theme, which was also borne out of concern for businessmen dropping dead of heart attacks and pre-Feminine Mystique housewives consumed with staying slim. From this climate came the exercise classes of early pioneers such as Jack LaLanne, followed by the first few joggers, many of whom became runners. Soon enough, there were aerobics classes, marathons, cycling, Jane Fonda's fitness exercises, and yoga. McKenzie shows that while doctors have figured out how people can stay (reasonably) healthy, some of the medical thinking from 50 years ago was mind-boggling. VERDICT This is a thoroughly researched book. Readers who try to exercise regularly will be interested and perhaps inspired. Recommended.-Susan B. Hagloch, formerly with Tuscarawas Cty. P.L., New Philadelphia, OH (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.