A challenging scholarly contribution to the debate surrounding performance-enhancing practices in sport, which roots the subject in its international social, political and historical context.

Fastest, Highest, Strongest presents a comprehensive challenge to the dominant orthodoxy concerning the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sport. Examining the political and economic transformation of the Olympic Movement during the twentieth century, the authors argue that the realities of modern sport require a serious reassessment of current policies, in particular the ban on the use of certain substances and practices. The book includes detailed discussion of: * The historical importance of World War II and the Cold War in the development of a high-performance culture in sport * The changing Olympic project: from amateurism to a fully professionalized approach * The changing meaning of "sport" * The role of sport science, technology and drugs in pursuing ever-better performance * The major ethical and philosophical arguments used to support the ban on performance-enhancing substances in sport. Fastest, Highest, Strongest is a profound critical examination of modern sport. Its straightforward style will appeal to under- and post-graduate students as well as scholars of sports ethics and history, policy makers and all those interested in the changing nature of sport.

An informative introduction to the "world records" held by fourteen members of the animal kingdom. Each spread portrays an animal that is the largest, slowest, longest lived. Readers can see the animal's size in relation to something familiar.

From back cover: 'The most important thing in the olympic games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.'

After a decade behind bars for a murder he did not commit, Ryan Ferguson learned that physical strength and confidence are keys to survival – he now shares his strength secrets in Stronger, Faster, Smarter--the smartest, realest, and most doable fitness guide you’ll ever read. How many of us really understand that every moment counts, and that physical strength and confidence enable our mind and spirit to make the most of our lives? Ryan Ferguson does. He survived nearly a decade behind bars for a murder he did not commit. An innocent collegian imprisoned at nineteen, Ferguson’s disbelief turned to resolve after his father told him: “Son, do whatever you can to get stronger, faster, and smarter. This is now your number one priority.” In his darkest hour, even after countless appeals and disappointment, in a place that threatened physical violence, malnutrition, and offered almost no medical aid, Ferguson knew his physical health was paramount. In this startlingly elegant, authentic, and inspiring guide, Ferguson shares his simple, universally attainable recipe for health and power.

This big book is stuffed with the fastest, brightest, longest, funniest, weirdest, wildest, wettest, saddest, brainiest, and fascinating-est (yikes!) things in the world. From the highest peaks to the murkiest depths, the fastest man to the slowest sloth, the oldest lake to the most venomous snake and much, much more!

Provides advice on equipment and skills, including tips on how to prevent injury and convert a mountain bike into a road bike