Book cover of The Joy of Movement: How Exercise Helps Us Find Happiness, Hope, Connection, and Courage

Book description

Now in paperback. The bestselling author of The Willpower Instinct introduces a surprising science-based book that doesn't tell us why we should exercise but instead shows us how to fall in love with movement.

Exercise is health-enhancing and life-extending, yet many of us feel it's a chore. But, as Kelly…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked The Joy of Movement as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I don’t know about you, but I’ve always had a rather complicated relationship with exercise.

It always felt like something I was *supposed* to do and as a person who’s never been particularly athletic, I just didn’t like it. Until I read The Joy of Movement. This is a love letter to exercise. And it’s all based in science. McGonigal is an absolute whiz at making research interesting and accessible.

By the end, I finally found my joy in movement and now I look forward to exercising most days of the week!

One of my favorite stress-relievers is physical activity, and I’ve always relied on movement—going for a walk, dancing, practicing yoga—as an effective, enjoyable way to ease tension and boost my mood. Like me, Kelly McGonigal writes, “Exercise has, at various times in my life rescued me from isolation and despair, fostered courage and hope, reminded me how to experience joy and given me a place to belong.” Yet even though exercise is health-enhancing and life-extending, she notes that many people find it a chore. Using cutting-edge science and engaging storytelling, McGonigal explains why movement is essential for health and happiness.…

From Carol's list on for stress relief.

If you love The Joy of Movement...

Book cover of December on 5C4

December on 5C4 by Adam Strassberg,

Magical realism meets the magic of Christmas in this mix of Jewish, New Testament, and Santa stories–all reenacted in an urban psychiatric hospital!

On locked ward 5C4, Josh, a patient with many similarities to Jesus, is hospitalized concurrently with Nick, a patient with many similarities to Santa. The two argue…

Want books like The Joy of Movement?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 57 books like The Joy of Movement.

Browse books like The Joy of Movement

Book cover of Peace is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life
Book cover of Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times
Book cover of Yoga Nidra: A Meditative Practice for Deep Relaxation and Healing

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,299

readers submitted
so far, will you?

📚 If you like The Joy of Movement, you might also like...

Book cover of Karl's War

Karl's War by Neil Spark,

Karl's War is a coming-of-age-meets-thriller set in Germany on the eve of Hitler coming to power. Karl – a reluctant poster boy for the Nazis – meets Jewish Ben and his world is up-turned.

Ben and his family flee to France. Karl joins the German army but deserts and finds…

Book cover of Girl in the Ashes

Girl in the Ashes by Douglas Weissman,

Odette Lefebvre is a serial killer stalking the shadows of Nazi-occupied Paris and must confront both the evils of those she murders and the darkness of her own past.

This young woman's childhood trauma shapes her complex journey through World War II France, where she walks a razor's edge…

5 book lists we think you will like!