As someone in my 40s who's been into weight training for a while, I picked up Squat Every Day with mixed feelings. On the one hand, squatting every day sounds intense—and I'm no stranger to pushing my limits. On the other, it's also something I knew could lead to burnout if not done properly. But what I didn't expect was how deeply personal and thought-provoking this book would be. It's more than just a guide to squats—it's a journey into the mental and emotional side of lifting and life.
From the start, what I appreciated about Anand Jha's writing is his honesty. He doesn't hold back. He talks about the challenges he faced, from overtraining and neglecting recovery to relying on painkillers to get through a workout. There's something really relatable about this, especially as someone who's gone through the grind and pushed my body too far at times. He doesn't frame these moments as failures; instead, he reflects on them as lessons learned. One quote that really struck me was when he wrote:
Our body is capable of doing more than we think it can. But it's the mind, with all its chatter and fear, that often holds us back.
I can't tell you how many times I've been under a heavy barbell, staring down the weight, hearing that inner voice of doubt. It's not just about how strong your body is—it's the mental game that can make or break your set. This book acknowledges that.
One of the most powerful moments in the book is when Jha describes a squat attempt where he almost fails. He's stuck, physically exhausted, and mentally overwhelmed, but then something shifts:
With so much going on, I was calm. My mind, having exhausted all its possibilities, had stopped panicking. Slowly, almost imperceptibly, I began to rise. A fraction of a millimeter at a time.
That passage hit me hard. It wasn't just about lifting a heavy weight—it was about trusting yourself when everything feels impossible. It's a great reminder that persistence isn't always about immediate success; sometimes it's about taking things one step at a time, even when it feels like you're at your breaking point.
The book also dives deep into some philosophical reflections, and while it can feel a little heavy at times, it's also deeply inspiring. Jha talks about the constant battle between "I" and "Me"—the ego versus the inner self. He writes:
The numbers you lift do not matter. What matters is whether you're lifting more than last time—or whether you're lifting at all.
This hit home for me because, as someone who's been lifting for years, I've definitely had those days where I didn't hit a PR or couldn't push as hard as I did the last time. But what matters is that you show up and keep going, even when progress feels slow.
Jha's personal anecdotes also make the book more relatable. He talks about his family, particularly his daughters, and how their quiet pride in him kept him going during some of his toughest moments. It's a nice touch that reminds you that the gym isn't just about what happens in those few hours—it's part of a bigger life, full of relationships and challenges.
That said, the book isn't a step-by-step fitness manual. Jha's reflections can sometimes get philosophical to the point where they pull you away from the physical training aspect. But in a way, that's what makes this book stand out—it's not just about squats or lifting weights. It's about the mental strength, the lessons, and the mindset you build through consistent effort.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Squat Every Day is a book that speaks to anyone who's pushed themselves—physically, mentally, or both. It's a reminder that progress isn't just measured in numbers or physical feats. Sometimes, it's about showing up, staying consistent, and learning from every challenge. Whether you're in your 40s like me or just getting started, there's something in here for anyone looking to grow beyond their limits.
This review has been drafted by ChatGPT based on the following command:
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"Squat Every Day" isn't just about lifting weights—it's about discovering the power of persistence and mental strength. Through Anand Jha's deeply personal journey, you'll learn how to push past your limits, both physically and mentally.
Even if you're not into weight training, the mindset this book promotes will resonate with anyone striving to break barriers and achieve more. It will teach you how to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
Ready to dive deeper? Get your copy now on Amazon or from the publisher's e-store. You can also grab the Kindle edition.