Our Favorite Fitness and Wellness Books
September 29, 2023
October is National Book Month, and we wanted to get in on the celebration by highlighting some of our staff’s favorite books related to some of our favorite topics – health, sports, wellness… and more! Scroll to the bottom of this article for our best local bookstore recommendations to pick up these books for your cozy fall reading session.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Recommended by Gabby Rouhlac, Fitness Concierge Manager (Downtown Brooklyn)
“People are drawn to "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck" because it challenges conventional wisdom and encourages a mindset of self-acceptance. The book's blunt and straightforward approach resonates with me, providing a refreshing perspective on personal growth and happiness. Furthermore, it's a relatable and engaging read for those seeking a more authentic and fulfilling life.”
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Recommended by Miri Vela, Digital Marketing Manager
“A look at the inner workings of habit formation with practical systems to gradually implement new positive habits or eradicate negative ones. My favorite thing about the book is it focuses on the compound impact that making small, daily changes can have, making it a very gentle and sustainable approach.”
Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Recommended by Lesley Kiger, General Manager (Chelsea)
“This book is one of my favorites! It‘s a story of sports, competition, love and motivation - perfect for female athletes, or anyone looking for inspiration to achieve their goals.”
Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Recommended by Keeth Smart, Senior Vice President, Club Operations
“I recently read and enjoyed David Goggins’ first book – Can’t Hurt Me. It is a bit of a self-help/fitness/military motivation book, which I enjoy. The key takeaway from the book is that most people can overcome any obstacle if they are willing to put in the hard work and not listen to the naysayers.”
Shoe Dog by Phil Night
Recommended by Keeth Smart, Senior Vice President, Club Operations
“One of my favorite business books of all time is Shoe Dog, by Phil Knight. I highly recommend it. The key takeaway from this book is that building a business is hard and has some elements of luck involved. In addition, whenever Phil Knight felt a bit of stress or pressure he went for long runs to clear his head. Basically, he focused on his mental health to ensure he ran a strong company.”
Black Pain by Terrie M. Williams
Recommended by Lartif Thorton, Member Services Manager
“Excellent read. Details how depression within the black community goes unnoticed and undiagnosed due to cultural norms and the perceived shame in seeking therapy.”
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Recommended by Jennifer Walsh, Sales Director (Chelsea Piers CT)
“It's a great memoir dealing with mental health, parenthood, self-identity, etc. Plus, she's married to a pro female soccer player so...sports! It shines a light on setting boundaries both with work but also with your personal life and learning to listen to what you need and to trust yourself.”
The Art of Learning by Josh Waitzkin
Recommended by Orest Ludwig, Level 4 Personal Trainer (Chelsea)
“This book helps you continue to learn effectively. He pulls from his experience playing chess (he was actually the inspiration behind the movie “Searching for Bobby Fischer!”) and practicing Tai Chi and mixed martial arts and how they affected his learning.”
The Dry Challenge by Hilary Sheinbaum
Recommended by Leah Vallario, Marketing Associate
“We recently hosted Hilary Sheinbaum in our Brooklyn clubs where she showed us all of the amazing non-alcoholic beverage options and discussed her personal journey with the dry challenge. It has inspired me to want to do the challenge myself, and I knew this book would help me with the journey. Whether you want to try the dry challenge yourself, are sober curious or just want to improve your relationship with alcohol, this book offers a fun, interactive and intentional guide for any hurdle you may face.”
Why We Swim by Bonnie Tsui
Recommended by Andriana Spence, VP of Marketing
“Why We Swim is a lovely non-fiction book that goes through different parts of the world and how people there came to swim. The author, Bonnie Tsui, also talks about her own relationship to the water and swimming. Being a not-strong swimmer who loves the water myself, I loved her stories and learning about how different populations' access to water can affect their lives for generations to come.”
Looking to add any of these books to your collection? Shop local and check out some of our favorite local bookstores in the city:
Chelsea
192 Books 192 10th Av
Posman Books 75 9th Ave
Downtown Brooklyn
Center for Fiction 15 Lafayette Ave
Greenlight Bookstore 686 Fulton St
Prospect Heights
Unnameable Books 615 Vanderbilt Ave
Community Bookstore 143 7th Ave