Review: A Physical Education: How I Escaped Diet Culture and Gained Strength by Casey Johnston
I’ve read countless books that try to tackle the labyrinthine relationship we often have with food and our bodies, but A Physical Education by Casey Johnston isn’t just another title in the sea of diet literature; it’s a lifeline. I found myself drawn in from the very first pages—not only because of Casey’s captivating prose, but because her journey mirrored my own in a way I had never encountered before. As someone who has also danced with the shadows of disordered eating, reading Casey’s story felt like finding a long-lost friend who understands my struggles.
A Physical Education dives deep into the toxic world of diet culture and shines a powerful light on the often-overlooked realm of atypical anorexia, backed by eye-opening statistics that many of us can resonate with. I was moved by the alarming figure that in 2008, nearly 65% of readers in a survey displayed disordered eating behaviors, illustrating that society’s obsession with weight can have pervasive, harmful effects. This stark reality isn’t just a statistic; it’s a narrative full of lived experiences, including Casey’s own.
Casey’s transition from calorie restriction to weightlifting serves as the heart of this book. Her storytelling feels both raw and refreshing as she unpacks her initial obsession with extreme cardio and the myths she—and many of us—held about exercise and dieting. I connected deeply with her realization that weightlifting became a healthier means to assert control over her body, transforming self-critique into personal growth. I couldn’t help but nod in agreement as she recounted her own awkward experiences in the gym, an emotional journey that gently reminded me of my own trepidations when stepping into weightlifting for the first time.
What stands out in Johnston’s writing is her ability to blend deep vulnerability with empowering insights. One quote that lingered with me was her reflection on food: "I learned to view food as fuel rather than something to be restricted." This simple but profound change in perspective resonated with my own transformation and reinforced the message that nourishing our bodies is essential for both physical and mental well-being.
The pacing of the narrative strikes an admirable balance between personal anecdotes and educational content, making it not just a memoir but an enlightening guide for anyone unfamiliar with the world of strength training. Casey’s passion is palpable, especially as she details her encounter with the book Starting Strength—a pivotal moment that solidified not just her commitment to weightlifting but her newfound relationship with food and her body.
In conclusion, A Physical Education is a must-read for anyone looking to escape the chains of diet culture—whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or someone just beginning to explore the world of weightlifting. It’s filled with genuine stories that offer laughter, tears, and an invaluable sense of community. I know I’ll be sharing Casey’s insights with friends at my gym and diving into her newsletter, She’s A Beast, for continued inspiration. This book isn’t just for those like me who see their journey mirrored in its pages; it’s for anyone interested in embracing their strength, redefining their relationship with their bodies, and thriving in a culture that often feels counterproductive to that goal.
If you’ve ever felt disheartened by the messages about body image and self-worth that dominate our lives, this book may well be the breath of fresh air you didn’t know you were seeking.
Discover more about A Physical Education: How I Escaped Diet Culture and Ga… on GoodReads >>