First: What it Takes to Win by Rich Froning

Pages: 304
Released:  June 21, 2013 (I had a digital ARC via NetGalley)
Publisher:  Tyndale House

Quick Recap:  In the past four or five years, CrossFit has gone from being a lesser known specialty gym chain to an almost household term for elite fitness.  Even people who aren't members of this rigorous community probably know someone who is, and know that being a member of CrossFit is no joke.  First: What it Takes to Win by Rich Froning is a journey into the CrossFit world from a Christian perspective.  Having had a brief history with CrossFit, and a long history with Christianity, I loved most of this book.  For those who aren't members of either of those communities though, this book will probably have little to offer you.

The Plot:  This non-fiction book chronicles the journey of the author, Rich Froning, the first ever two-time champion at the annual CrossFit games.  We learn about his faith, family, and fitness routines (his three F's as he calls them).  From personal tragedy and triumph, this is an emotional read to say the least.

Favorite Scene:  I wouldn't say I had a favorite scene reading this book, but I did most connect with Froning's segments that talked about the reason for being fit.  Is it for personal glory?  Competitive success? Good looks?  Or is it to glorify God?  All Christians probably want it to be the latter, but more than likely that's a hard long road to get to, and Froning honestly shares his journey proving that to be true.

If I Could Change Something:  I wish Froning had made the book more appealing to those that were not familiar with CrossFit terminology.  Most of the time when he is depicting workouts, he doesn't stop to explain the routine clearly for non-CrossFit folks.  For some readers, it will be like going to an ethnic restaurant and trying to figure out what to order from a menu in another language. (NOTE:  I had an advanced reader's digital copy - if the in-print version contained a glossary of sorts, this criticism can be discarded).   Also, some of the personal family stories he tells are dragged out a little too long.  I also wish he would have added how expensive it is to participate in a CrossFit facility.  I did CrossFit for four months and had to stop for financial reasons.  Many of these facilities charge upwards of $150 a month - it's worth it if you have it, but I don't know a lot of people who can sustain that type of membership fee.  I loved my time at CrossFit CenterMass more than any other gym I've been a member of, and would still be there today if I could swing it.  This is the best workout community you'll find, just it comes at a price.

Reluctant Reader Approved:  Only if you are a Christian who is familiar with CrossFit.  If not it will probably be a challenge to get through.

Overall Score:  I personally would give this book an 8.  For those not familiar with CrossFit, I would give it a 5.  There are still some things everyone can benefit from, but far less than those who are engaged with the subject matter.  This isn't one of those "tell everyone to read" books, which is too bad, because Froning does have a powerful testimony.