Synopses & Reviews
We are born with the God-given right to move efficiently, gracefully, and joyfully. We lose this right only through society's mind-body split, faulty modes of physical education, and overemphasis on "winning." George Leonard's simple and radical notion is that within each of us, regardless of age, sex, or physical condition, there exists an ultimate athlete waiting to be born. With a poet's passion, fifth-degree aikido black belt Leonard evokes the transcendent moment in sport—the catch that defies gravity and chance, the play that makes time stand still—as emblematic of the Greater Game of embodiment itself, of life and death, a Game we all can play to depth and breadth of body and soul. The Ultimate Athlete helped create the participatory sports boom of the 1970s and 1980s. This revised edition is addressed to a new generation of ultimate athletes.
Synopsis
Moving gracefully from ancient Greek philosophy to school gymnasiums, this book explores the profound connection between physical and mental performance and shows how strengthening the inner athlete leads to a more harmonious life.
About the Author
Geroge Leonard is author of a number of books on human possibilities and social change, including Education and Ecstasy. Leonard holds a fifth degree black belt in the martial art of aikido, and is co-owner of an aikido school in Mill Valley, California. He is married and has four daughters.