The Strenuous Life

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In intricate detail, this narrative explores how President Theodore Roosevelt spearheaded a sports and fitness revolution that transformed the United States. As a child, Roosevelt faced crippling asthma and severe myopia, leading doctors to advise him against exercise for fear of a heart attack. Undeterred, he developed a lifelong passion for athletics, which he carried into the presidency. Roosevelt engaged in boxing, Ju-Jitsu, tennis, and adventurous “point-to-point” walks, while also encouraging his children to participate in sports. His personal commitment to fitness had significant societal impacts; during his administration, America experienced a surge in sports and recreational activities. Notable milestones included the inaugural World Series in baseball, the emergence of interscholastic sports, and a newfound emphasis on physical education in schools. The NCAA was established, and the U.S. hosted the Olympic Games for the first time. Known as the “Bull Moose,” Roosevelt actively shaped American athletics according to his vision. Rich with anecdotes and featuring prominent figures from early 20th-century politics and sports, this account chronicles Roosevelt’s struggle, which he called “The Strenuous Life,” and its lasting influence on American culture.