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Freed To Lead: F3 and the Unshackling of the Modern-day Warrior
Every morning before the sun comes up, on school and church campuses, in public parks and parking lots, thousands of men gather to work out under the banner of F3 Nation. The workouts are simple – no gimmicks, trends, or fancy gear – and participants take turns leading. No one pays a dollar, yet every man involved will tell you that F3 keeps him in the best shape of his adult life. In Freed To Lead, F3 co-founders Dredd and OBT tell the story of how F3 began on New Year’s Day 2011 at a Charlotte, N.C., middle school and how its dramatic growth showed they had launched something more than just a workout group. Through anecdote and metaphor, they show how F3’s Three Fs – Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith – cure the “SadClown Syndrome” that plagues too many men and offer a solution to our society’s leadership vacuum.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2014
41 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 17, 2022
I’ve noticed that a lot of men in F3, even though they may be overweight or injured, have a foundation of team sports and high school and college sports. I didn’t have that. I sat on benches. I got put in right field and sat on the ground. I got put in as a stopper in soccer and watched the kids on the playground. I was #18 on the tennis team in high school and was the unofficial cheerleader. I started going to F3 in 2017. I was always the 6 (the one who was slower and weaker than everyone else). One day I was the 6 and I couldn’t run any more in an Indian run so I stopped and turned around to walk back to my car. One of the PAX came back to get me and we talked and he said he would get me back to the PAX at my pace. I got there and started the workout and I got trash talked by a couple of mega-athletic guys who thought I was out of earshot. It made me feel like an outsider and I quit that day. Fast forward 5 years and I have been posting at F3 for 5 months. I completed my first F3 event last weekend and just finished this book. Takeaway - I am in the Third 500 and trying to hold life together. It’s a daily grind. This book helped me see that it is common for someone who is in their 40s to lose their way and get bogged down. I enjoy F3 even though I am still the 6 at every workout.
July 16, 2017
What every man in America needs to read!
As a member of F3 Nation in the MECA NC region, I can you all that what F3 has meant to me. I was the books definition of a Sad Clown and it has changed my life. I have lost 74 lbs, quit taking all meds I was on and my relationships with my family and male friends is the best it has ever been. I am doing things in my life I would have never thought possible like my current training for a half marathon!!! I am truly grateful for everything & everyone in F3 Nation and what they have done for me!
As a member of F3 Nation in the MECA NC region, I can you all that what F3 has meant to me. I was the books definition of a Sad Clown and it has changed my life. I have lost 74 lbs, quit taking all meds I was on and my relationships with my family and male friends is the best it has ever been. I am doing things in my life I would have never thought possible like my current training for a half marathon!!! I am truly grateful for everything & everyone in F3 Nation and what they have done for me!
January 14, 2025
Major fan of F3 and have benefited from it in so many ways. Excellent telling of the origin story and also of what plagues men in our culture.
June 21, 2019
Must read for F3 guys!
I've been attending F3 workouts for about 2 months now. I decided to pick up the book that explained the theory behind the organization that has impacted my life in such a short amount of time. Well worth the time. Makes my commitment to F3 even stronger.
I've been attending F3 workouts for about 2 months now. I decided to pick up the book that explained the theory behind the organization that has impacted my life in such a short amount of time. Well worth the time. Makes my commitment to F3 even stronger.
February 18, 2018
Do yourself a favor and find a local F3 group.
February 17, 2023
This is an interesting book to review. First, to be very clear — absolutely 5-stars without hesitation to F3 as an organization that I'm thankful to have found and been a part of for the last few months.
However, this isn't necessary a great book, although I don't think that's the authors' intent. They are very clear on the purpose of Freed To Lead. The founders of F3 started a workout group, discovered it resonated with many men in a sense deeper than just getting fit together. Observing this, they worked to reverse-engineer why it was resonating more significantly — and, in their estimation, it was meeting an unidentified need for male fellowship and mutual invigoration towards purposes beyond oneself.
As the group caught momentum, they realized that either they needed to figure out it's purpose and write it down (as in this book) clearly, else it would be impossible to keep F3 from getting pulled in various directions by well-meaning, but less intentional participants. This book serves that humble end — the authors never claimed they set out to write a masterpiece of nonfiction literature. That's why I still give this book 4-stars, while I would not say it's a "great" book in itself.
That being said, the authors do offer some leadership gems. One, is the courage to be honest about the purpose behind activities (particularly ones that seem very wholesome and good) and whether the activity makes sense with that stated purpose. For example, they offer a frank analysis of the efficacy of lawyers and bankers fabricating homes in their free time and ask whether the real end of such efforts is to efficiently produce housing or to provide an experience for the men who are volunteering. They don't criticize the activity, but they do question the integrity of the activity combined with its stated purpose.
However, this isn't necessary a great book, although I don't think that's the authors' intent. They are very clear on the purpose of Freed To Lead. The founders of F3 started a workout group, discovered it resonated with many men in a sense deeper than just getting fit together. Observing this, they worked to reverse-engineer why it was resonating more significantly — and, in their estimation, it was meeting an unidentified need for male fellowship and mutual invigoration towards purposes beyond oneself.
As the group caught momentum, they realized that either they needed to figure out it's purpose and write it down (as in this book) clearly, else it would be impossible to keep F3 from getting pulled in various directions by well-meaning, but less intentional participants. This book serves that humble end — the authors never claimed they set out to write a masterpiece of nonfiction literature. That's why I still give this book 4-stars, while I would not say it's a "great" book in itself.
That being said, the authors do offer some leadership gems. One, is the courage to be honest about the purpose behind activities (particularly ones that seem very wholesome and good) and whether the activity makes sense with that stated purpose. For example, they offer a frank analysis of the efficacy of lawyers and bankers fabricating homes in their free time and ask whether the real end of such efforts is to efficiently produce housing or to provide an experience for the men who are volunteering. They don't criticize the activity, but they do question the integrity of the activity combined with its stated purpose.
April 3, 2021
I’ve been in F3 for a few years so I figured it was time to read the book. We had a couple copies floating around our region. At a high level, F3 is a free outdoor men’s workout group that also focuses on peer friendships and faith. I think it’s worth trying out for any men that live near a workout location. Women can check out FiA which is the female equivalent.
On to the book, I found the first two sections insightful. I knew a lot of it from being in F3 but it was informative to hear more about how it started and the basis for some of the practices. The third part rubbed me a little the wrong way. I just generally get annoyed about the authors’ arguments that common platitudes are wrong but theirs are right. When they argue society has problems they tend to make it sound overly extreme and then argue solutions at the other extremes. I value a more moderate approach. For instance, I think their argument that you should focus on what you are best at is good but they go too far saying being well rounded is bad and that you should stay in your comfort zone. I would recommend this book to men who have been in F3 for a few months. If you are interested in F3, don’t start with a book. Start by going to at least 3 workouts. Then decide if it is right for you.
On to the book, I found the first two sections insightful. I knew a lot of it from being in F3 but it was informative to hear more about how it started and the basis for some of the practices. The third part rubbed me a little the wrong way. I just generally get annoyed about the authors’ arguments that common platitudes are wrong but theirs are right. When they argue society has problems they tend to make it sound overly extreme and then argue solutions at the other extremes. I value a more moderate approach. For instance, I think their argument that you should focus on what you are best at is good but they go too far saying being well rounded is bad and that you should stay in your comfort zone. I would recommend this book to men who have been in F3 for a few months. If you are interested in F3, don’t start with a book. Start by going to at least 3 workouts. Then decide if it is right for you.
May 13, 2018
A quick and illuminating read on the trials men face and the solutions that can help them overcome their difficulties and become their best selves. The authors’ humility in acknowledging their unintentional stumbles into better answers and best practices is commendable. All men should read this, particularly those who wish to improve themselves and serve those around them. It is written for those who wish to lead, make a difference, and leave a legacy.
August 28, 2023
My husband asked me to read this because he loved it so much. As a woman, I couldn't relate to everything they talked about in the book. But it was very eye-opening to me, especially in the inner workings of men, how they feel, and why they act the way they do. I say this without a hint of exaggeration: F3 has changed my husband's life for the better. He is not and never was an athlete, but the whole premise around the organization is something that I believe every man needs.
September 4, 2023
Absolutely phenomenal. I had a friend invite me to F3 and after a few months of going the Q gave me this book to explain what it was that I had joined. The authors have an engaging method of writing that makes the book difficult to put down and their wisdom and experience shines through the text. The book is great for anyone in F3 that doesnt know why they keep dragging themselves to Post and for any man who is interested in joining their local F3
October 28, 2019
Really interesting backstory of F3 and the journey towards leadership
Really interesting (and often amusing) backstory and journey of F3, and the many insights and pearls of wisdom discovered along the way. Third book is great for folks in, or interested in, F3 and its quest to turn so many of us into self-confident leaders. This is a book I expect to read many more times.
Really interesting (and often amusing) backstory and journey of F3, and the many insights and pearls of wisdom discovered along the way. Third book is great for folks in, or interested in, F3 and its quest to turn so many of us into self-confident leaders. This is a book I expect to read many more times.
November 13, 2019
Great book about F3
This is an easy read and will have you laughing and thinking about how you can impact your world. This book is hard to put down and will inspire you to get out there and post with F3!
This is an easy read and will have you laughing and thinking about how you can impact your world. This book is hard to put down and will inspire you to get out there and post with F3!
February 12, 2020
The authors wrote this book in response to the unexpected and explosive growth of F3. They didn't set out to be authors or motivational speakers, but produced a short book that is loaded with wisdom, tactics, and testimony of how to kill SadClown Syndrome. Loved it.
December 11, 2020
This book lays the foundation for the embodiment of F3 Nation, yet the book offers more to the reader than an inside look at a growing movement in the 21st. century. The author's challenge the reader to self reflect on where oneself is in their life. I'd reccomend this book for these two reasons.
December 16, 2020
F3 is a great organization and I was privileged to be named by David "Dredd" Redding during a Rock Hill SC Convergence. This is inspiring and I encourage anyone that wants to build up their body as well as their mind to read this book and get involved with F3. Check out www.F3nation.com
July 12, 2021
This book was a great read for any of the PAX in F3. At first when I was recommended this book I thought it was going to be filled with fluff. But this is actually very motivational and explains a lot of why F3 operates the way it does.
July 26, 2021
Origin story and purpose of F3
This book lays out the origins and appeal of F3. We must be intentional about cultivating men today because we are no longer surrounded by men. We have guys, drinking buddies, and bros, but men are needed for healthy families and communities.
This book lays out the origins and appeal of F3. We must be intentional about cultivating men today because we are no longer surrounded by men. We have guys, drinking buddies, and bros, but men are needed for healthy families and communities.
April 2, 2022
If you've been in F3 awhile, or you're new, or you're considering joining the PAX to improve your life, I'd highly recommend you take a step back in time, to understand the thought process of the creators.
July 31, 2017
My story!
As I read this book I felt as if someone had written it both for and about me. Every word hit home. It should be required reading for every man in America.
As I read this book I felt as if someone had written it both for and about me. Every word hit home. It should be required reading for every man in America.
June 13, 2018
Great read
Great book explaining the background and principles of F3. The authors, like the men in F3, have their priorities in line....mostly :).
Great book explaining the background and principles of F3. The authors, like the men in F3, have their priorities in line....mostly :).
January 23, 2019
Its a plant.
September 16, 2020
Great read
It was a timely read for me as I myself was experiencing the sad clown syndrome. The three Fs and the pogo40 were very relatable
It was a timely read for me as I myself was experiencing the sad clown syndrome. The three Fs and the pogo40 were very relatable
January 6, 2021
Excellent!!
January 12, 2021
This book would only be interesting to those of use who are members of F3.
November 24, 2022
Life changing group (and book). If your a male of any age this book could be the book of all books that takes you to next levels.
December 8, 2024
Time to get back to it.
December 30, 2020
Great organization but this book doesn't do it much service; F3 sounds like a bad HS club. Again, don't judge F3 by this book, experience this group firsthand; it could change your life.
Read
August 30, 2017Locking Shields, Standing Together
This inspirations book on the brotherhood of F3 Nation will encourage every man along his journey and inspire those in their 3rd 500 to choose the pill that will leave a legacy in which will encourage their family members name and make him proud to serve others outside of himself.
This inspirations book on the brotherhood of F3 Nation will encourage every man along his journey and inspire those in their 3rd 500 to choose the pill that will leave a legacy in which will encourage their family members name and make him proud to serve others outside of himself.
June 28, 2019
Not what you think!
If you are a leader of any kind, and all men are - or aspire to be more - this book is a must read. The terms are a bit quirky yet the logic and appeal will touch your heart.
I find myself going back to my notes! I’m in physical therapy for rotator cuff surgery for another six weeks. After that, I’m going to get my F3 moniker!
If you are a leader of any kind, and all men are - or aspire to be more - this book is a must read. The terms are a bit quirky yet the logic and appeal will touch your heart.
I find myself going back to my notes! I’m in physical therapy for rotator cuff surgery for another six weeks. After that, I’m going to get my F3 moniker!
June 17, 2015
F3 has made a tremendous impact!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews