• Casey Johnston's book promotes weightlifting as a way to build physical and emotional strength, challenging the cultural focus on dieting and thinness.
• Johnston initially pursued weightlifting as another weight loss method but discovered its benefits extended to improved body image and a healthier relationship with food.
• The book unpacks the societal pressures on women to prioritize appearance and advocates for a shift towards valuing strength, functionality, and overall well-being.

Casey Johnston's new book, 'A Physical Education: How I Escaped Diet Culture and Gained the Power of Lifting,' explores her personal transformation from restrictive dieting and cardio exercises to embracing weightlifting. The book challenges the pervasive cultural emphasis on achieving thinness through dieting and promotes the idea that strength training can offer a more positive and empowering relationship with one's body. Johnston shares her journey of discovering the benefits of weightlifting, not just for physical strength but also for emotional well-being and improved body image.

• What: Casey Johnston's book promotes weightlifting as a means of building strength and improving body image, contrasting with the negative impacts of restrictive dieting. It details her personal journey and the benefits she experienced.
• Who: Casey Johnston, the author, is the key individual. Mara Gordon conducted the interview.
• When: The book was released recently. The interview was published May 8, 2025 7:00 AM ET.
• Where: The context is largely focused on societal attitudes towards exercise and body image in Western culture, with specific focus on the gym culture.

The article presents a compelling case for shifting the focus from weight loss to strength gain, particularly for women. Johnston's personal narrative adds a layer of authenticity and relatability. The interview highlights the societal pressures that equate exercise with weight loss and the potential for weightlifting to empower individuals by fostering a positive relationship with their bodies. The book is positioned as a tool to help readers understand the cultural forces that shape their body image and to encourage a more holistic approach to health and well-being.

I don't lift to be hot. I lift to be strong.

My body could feel good to be in, powerful even. My body could do things.

We can't accept that a woman would want anything, truly, other than to be hot.

Casey Johnston's 'A Physical Education' offers a compelling alternative to the restrictive dieting culture, advocating for weightlifting as a means to cultivate physical and emotional strength. By sharing her personal journey and challenging societal norms, Johnston encourages readers to prioritize functionality, well-being, and a positive relationship with their bodies. The book is positioned to help people think and act towards building a better body image and lifestyle.