How a bunch of hardy punks rediscovered the age-old secrets of strength and endurance.
After Mexico, the author of Born to Run heads for Crete, in search of the secret of endurance of a handful of extraordinary men. On this Mediterranean island, Christopher McDougall follows in the footsteps of a broke painter, a carefree shepherd and a romantic poet who, at the height of the Occupation, dared to defy Hitler by kidnapping one of his generals.
Where did they find the energy to accomplish such an act of bravery?
McDougall's investigation follows the itinerary of these heroes, who rediscovered the strength of Heracles, the daring of Theseus and the resilience of Ulysses. His journey takes him to Brazil, the mountains of Colorado and the suburbs of Paris, where a handful of athletes perpetuate the secrets of the heroes of Antiquity. These professionals guide readers and encourage them to leave the gym and exercise in the great outdoors - climbing, swimming, throwing, jumping and performing their own feats.