The Motion of the Body Through Space

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In Lionel Shriver's sharp critique of the modern obsession with fitness, an aging husband's sudden fixation on extreme sports turns him into an unbearable figure. After an early retirement, Remington, a sedentary man in his sixties, decides to run a marathon, much to the dismay of his wife, Serenata, who finds his ambition "hopelessly trite." A loner who avoids group activities, Serenata has long been the couple's fitness enthusiast, but her knees are now failing, and she faces imminent surgery. While increased activity would benefit Remington's health, she questions why he can't simply take a walk without the need for a crowd. As he immerses himself in the fitness craze, Remington transforms into a narcissist, neglecting his responsibilities and hiring a contemptuous personal trainer named Bambi. Serenata worries that Remington's pursuit of the grueling triathlon, MettleMan, will lead to disaster, threatening both his life and their marriage. This narrative showcases Shriver's psychological insight, a vibrant cast of characters, and a keen observation of contemporary culture, culminating in an emotionally impactful conclusion.