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Force of Nature: Mind, Body, Soul
Laird Hamilton has been hailed as the world's greatest big-wave surfer. His first book, Force of Nature , allows readers a rare glimpse inside the unique philosophy that has created his circumstances, and not the other way around. After all, this is a man whose biological father abandoned him shortly after he was born; whose first job was working on a pig far; who dropped out of school in eleventh grade. And then the career surfer. Though earning enough to pay the rent as any kind of surfer is next to impossible, Hamilton has ended up in the place we all desire to doing exactly what he loves, becoming the world's best in the process, making a great living, being surrounded by nature and family, radiating peak health and fitness, and succeeding by any definition of the word.
How did he get there? And more importantly, how can the rest of us join him?
Force of Nature is a detailed map to that destination, with Laird Hamilton as the reader's guide. It's not about chasing trophies or accolades or cash. It's about quality over quantity, soul and being true to your physical, mental, and spiritual roots. Not only is it possible to thrive in the modern world without adopting its harmful habits, it's essential. And not only has Hamilton mastered this balance, he makes a compelling and articulate case that anyone who wants to can do the same.
This book is a deeply authoritative and cutting-edge guide to peak fitness in mind, body, sould, and surfing. It comes directly from the source and his inner circle, which includes those at the vanguard of sports, training, nutrition, and more. Former pro volleyball player Gabrielle Reece; surf legend Dave Kalama; fitness gurus Paul Chek, T.R. Goodman, and Don Wildman; and Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis all contribute their knowledge. Readers will get an all-access pass into an elite world filled with definitive and provocative ideas.
How did he get there? And more importantly, how can the rest of us join him?
Force of Nature is a detailed map to that destination, with Laird Hamilton as the reader's guide. It's not about chasing trophies or accolades or cash. It's about quality over quantity, soul and being true to your physical, mental, and spiritual roots. Not only is it possible to thrive in the modern world without adopting its harmful habits, it's essential. And not only has Hamilton mastered this balance, he makes a compelling and articulate case that anyone who wants to can do the same.
This book is a deeply authoritative and cutting-edge guide to peak fitness in mind, body, sould, and surfing. It comes directly from the source and his inner circle, which includes those at the vanguard of sports, training, nutrition, and more. Former pro volleyball player Gabrielle Reece; surf legend Dave Kalama; fitness gurus Paul Chek, T.R. Goodman, and Don Wildman; and Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis all contribute their knowledge. Readers will get an all-access pass into an elite world filled with definitive and provocative ideas.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published October 28, 2008
96 people are currently reading
644 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
April 20, 2015
All you need to know is how big Laird's neck is to know that the dude is doing something right in his fitness regime. This book is a godsend for all who aspire to kick ass half as much as Laird does and always wondered what the dude eats to get a neck that big. (Answer? SO MUCH MEATLOAF. I made the recipe included for it and was kind of overwhelmed at the amount it made. For anyone else who may attempt, I'd suggest halving the recipes until you too are Laird-sized and have a giant neck to feed.) All in all though, fun to read. I liked that there was a little bit of everything.
March 28, 2011
A strange combination of exercise routines, recipes, pop-philosophy, and surfing techniques. Almost a coffee table book, but not quite. I don't know, I didn't hate it, and I learned some quick ways to make salmon. Laird Hamilton has clearly been spoiled by his charmed life, however, as he recommends things like 3-hour weight circuits and frequent trips to the beach as regular exercise. So, if you have unlimited resources, no job, and live in paradise, this is might be the book for you.
Read
March 23, 2024The quotes to remember:
"The ability to put all your reaources to work. That's the real trick."
"It takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile. Happiness is easier and smarter."
"The ability to put all your reaources to work. That's the real trick."
"It takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile. Happiness is easier and smarter."
August 5, 2024
The G.O.A.T. Incredible. Inspiring.
January 13, 2009
Amazing photography and a lot of great advice on healthy, happy living. Includes much more than I ever expected on healthy eating and exercises (complete with a grocery list and photos of exercises).
This is a handbook on better living that I'll use as a reference guide before hitting the grocery store, the gym or Waikiki beach.
I have to agree with Laird that the best living on Earth is the life lived closest to nature. When we're away, we forget what's important. Must get back to nature....
This is a handbook on better living that I'll use as a reference guide before hitting the grocery store, the gym or Waikiki beach.
I have to agree with Laird that the best living on Earth is the life lived closest to nature. When we're away, we forget what's important. Must get back to nature....
September 26, 2015
Meh. Nothing exciting here. Some interesting pictures but as a combo fitness-nutrition-philosophy book, it's pretty dull. But Mr. Hamilton is an incredible athlete whose training thoughts/process is interesting to know.
July 5, 2018
This book inspires me to live a healthy and more well-rounded life. Important concepts taught to the perspective of a world-class surfer. Serves as a great inspiration, easy read. I wouldn’t say there are groundbreaking statements, but a good reminder of important life concepts
December 12, 2017
I'm a huge Laird Hamilton fan and this was full of practical advice for a sustainable, active, healthy lifestyle.
July 21, 2022
After watching a documentary on surfing champion Laird Hamilton, I decided to read his book "Force of Nature: Mind, Body, Soul, And, of Course, Surfing" to learn more about the guy. It’s a very cool book, covering the mind, body and soul as well as autobiographical info and surfing tips --- more than I expected. It was quite a pleasant surprise. He offers practical advice for all, whether you surf or not.
Regarding the mind, he writes about risk, fear, negativity, instinct, and setting goals. On the topic of the body, he offers training, workout and diet tips and includes some healthy recipes. Addressing the soul, he writes “To find your passion, you have to look inward.” Some of his advice is common sense which readers may have heard before. He confirms what you may already know, yet he also very inspiring in areas which you are in the dark. What I like about the book is that it’s helpful and inspiring no matter where you are in your life.
Of course there are chapters on surfing. His advice for beginners is solid. I’ve never surfed and I found the surfing part fascinating. His relationship with and respect for the ocean and the planet is admirable.
Laird’s writing style is down to earth and concise. Reading it I felt as if he was sitting with me sharing his experiences and philosophy about life. He is unpretentious and humble. The book also has some great photos.
This book squashes any beliefs that surfers are dumb and airheads. On the contrary, Laird Hamilton learned a lot about life, health, the brain, and one’s soul from the ocean and riding its waves. The book is very motivational. If you’re in a rut and feeling down, read it. Laird breaks down what’s important in life. For some readers it’ll be a revelation. For others it’s a reminder. For those who’ve been derailed, it’s a compass to get back on track.
Regarding the mind, he writes about risk, fear, negativity, instinct, and setting goals. On the topic of the body, he offers training, workout and diet tips and includes some healthy recipes. Addressing the soul, he writes “To find your passion, you have to look inward.” Some of his advice is common sense which readers may have heard before. He confirms what you may already know, yet he also very inspiring in areas which you are in the dark. What I like about the book is that it’s helpful and inspiring no matter where you are in your life.
Of course there are chapters on surfing. His advice for beginners is solid. I’ve never surfed and I found the surfing part fascinating. His relationship with and respect for the ocean and the planet is admirable.
Laird’s writing style is down to earth and concise. Reading it I felt as if he was sitting with me sharing his experiences and philosophy about life. He is unpretentious and humble. The book also has some great photos.
This book squashes any beliefs that surfers are dumb and airheads. On the contrary, Laird Hamilton learned a lot about life, health, the brain, and one’s soul from the ocean and riding its waves. The book is very motivational. If you’re in a rut and feeling down, read it. Laird breaks down what’s important in life. For some readers it’ll be a revelation. For others it’s a reminder. For those who’ve been derailed, it’s a compass to get back on track.
October 7, 2019
I was expecting to read an autobiography and dive deep into laird's life to learn about his life experiences, and stories behind all the incredible things that he does. However, this is not the case. This book is not an autobiography. I can even go as far as saying that it's formally not a book. It's a manual. It's a collection of photos, gym instructions, cooking recipes, and a lot of very "on the surface" information on what Laird likes to do and how he does it. Additionally, the book is full of many grammatical mistakes, punctuation errors, and typos. Many of the sections are poorly edited, and you can see that text was copy-pasted in between different parts of the book. If you’re looking to read 50 pages on how to do squats and pushups, then I guess this is the book for you. Most of the things in this book can be googled.
June 28, 2019
I'm a sucker for Laird's Laws in Outside Magazine where Laird is shown hanging upside down from ancient Hawaiian trees suspended by only a knotted hemp rope, and where he talks about the importance of, say, rest days when it comes to overall health and performance. So why not try a full book of Laird Laws and read Force of Nature? Bottom line: It was too much at once for me. There are, as always, at least for me, moments of insight and inspiration, whether it was imagining a SUPing trip to California, reading about a recipe that works with my very limited diet, or seeing the degree to which Laird goes all in on anything from foil surfing to yoga.
January 27, 2021
I didn't expect this book to be so internally enlightening. Laird is a force of nature, not only on the waves and he way in which he works out and eats right, but in the way he communicates about spiritual insights he has discovered (and rediscovered) throughout his lifetime.
This book really helps you look inside yourself. Questions posed caused me to reflect many times on approaching life. Laird understands connection and finds the way to your conscience. This book could help those who are searching for their purpose and for what matters.
This book really helps you look inside yourself. Questions posed caused me to reflect many times on approaching life. Laird understands connection and finds the way to your conscience. This book could help those who are searching for their purpose and for what matters.
October 27, 2017
Laird Hamilton (The King of Surfing) began surfing at age 3 standing on the front end of his father's surf board. His family moved to Kauai when he was a child and he began jumping off cliffs and tackling big waves in grade school. Hamilton has a fascinating life and fearless character, but this book was cheesy. Most of it was pictures of Hamilton, pictures of food, and corny self-help quotes. This book did not to justice to a Man who is living life on his own terms.
February 3, 2025
This book is so bizarre. Normally I would describe it as a Frankenstein coffee table book, but I think that would do it too much justice. It is an odd, ego-drive fantastic project that is part cookbook, part workout book, part life lessons, part philosophy.
If I could sum it up it would be this - wear no shoes, reject fear, do body weight exercises while you wait for your meatloaf to bake. Not kidding.
Hard pass. Not worth your time.
If I could sum it up it would be this - wear no shoes, reject fear, do body weight exercises while you wait for your meatloaf to bake. Not kidding.
Hard pass. Not worth your time.
March 5, 2024
Fun and easy read for anyone with an interest in physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Laird Hamilton’s surfing exploits are thrilling to read about and his view of training and nutrition is challenging to the industry status quo.
October 29, 2017
Loved it! Inspirational and motivating.
January 9, 2020
Very good
March 13, 2020
Really enjoyed this book! Seems me and the author has similar interest ! Lol Good info for any one that wants to keep living there best life possible .
May 11, 2021
The book was great and I love Laird but the book seemed ghostwritten and not fully written by Laird.
Want to read
September 1, 2024Audible Audiobook
April 4, 2022
This dude is a walking talking pep-talk. An unrealistic one, but effective anyway. Some great stuff in here, giving an inside look at the lifestyle of one of the worlds top athletes: Diet, Workout routine, and inspiration for just living a fulfilling life and some nice little bits about surfing, of course.
July 19, 2025
What a great read. I bought this back in 2013, prior to my life being turned upside down. Only now, eight years later, did I have the headspace and time to read this. Reading this as I move into a new chapter of my own life is great timing though.
At the time I bought this book, I was very much into fitness and was interested in surfing. However, what made me buy the book is that it's so much more than about surfing. As the title says, it's about mind, body, and soul (from an accomplished athlete's perspective). I'm not one to read athlete's memoirs. However, this is written by someone who has a deep connection to water and the ocean, so the lessons imparted by a surfer are different than those by someone playing with a ball on a field or court. It's the same reason I enjoying reading books written by hikers and mountaineers.
I'd read the book by Gabby Reece, Laird's wife, and enjoyed that. To me, they are an inspiring couple - they focus on living life, being fit and healthy, and appreciating and loving family.
The book was published by Rodale, and they did a great job. The book's content is well organized, and the visual design is phenomenal. I loved all the pictures of Laird, the ocean, and family and friends. This is a book where you really want to read the paper version so that you can enjoy the design and photos. Bravo, Rodale!
The book has four sections: Mind, Body, Soul, Surfing. Each section has mini sections. Plus, there's a resources section in the back. I enjoyed this book so much, even though I will probably never surf. However, after reading this book, I now know that standup paddleboarding may be an option for me.
If you're intrigued by surfing, Laird Hamilton, healthy and joyful living, and/or Hawaii, this is a book for you. It's an inspiring, informative, and entertaining read.
I see that Laird has a newer book out, so I plan to check that out as well.
At the time I bought this book, I was very much into fitness and was interested in surfing. However, what made me buy the book is that it's so much more than about surfing. As the title says, it's about mind, body, and soul (from an accomplished athlete's perspective). I'm not one to read athlete's memoirs. However, this is written by someone who has a deep connection to water and the ocean, so the lessons imparted by a surfer are different than those by someone playing with a ball on a field or court. It's the same reason I enjoying reading books written by hikers and mountaineers.
I'd read the book by Gabby Reece, Laird's wife, and enjoyed that. To me, they are an inspiring couple - they focus on living life, being fit and healthy, and appreciating and loving family.
The book was published by Rodale, and they did a great job. The book's content is well organized, and the visual design is phenomenal. I loved all the pictures of Laird, the ocean, and family and friends. This is a book where you really want to read the paper version so that you can enjoy the design and photos. Bravo, Rodale!
The book has four sections: Mind, Body, Soul, Surfing. Each section has mini sections. Plus, there's a resources section in the back. I enjoyed this book so much, even though I will probably never surf. However, after reading this book, I now know that standup paddleboarding may be an option for me.
If you're intrigued by surfing, Laird Hamilton, healthy and joyful living, and/or Hawaii, this is a book for you. It's an inspiring, informative, and entertaining read.
I see that Laird has a newer book out, so I plan to check that out as well.
December 26, 2014
A lot of interesting ideas, gives a broad view of his beliefs and training and then lets you go deeper with further research yourself. Not an in-depth to do book, but that is all right.
I was a little annoyed at all the glamour photography(shirtless, windblown hair, running through water repeated from every angle), book does read a little like the kind of bio that is handed out before a talk show that is all glowing about the subject. There is no denying Laird Hamilton is an exceptional athlete but he wins no prize on the humility front. Many interesting topics are conspicuous by their absence - relationship with his father primary one for me, only in the equipment section is he mentioned then only as a shaper of Laird's surfboards. A second one is the money one - jetting between two of the priciest parts of the USA (Hawaii and Malibu) takes some financial wherewithal which he never mentions. I am guessing both are on the negative side and so he follows the famous say nothing if it is not nice dictum. Gets points for decorum.
That said there are many truly useful parts to the book. He does really well in simplifying his methods and presenting the distilled essence. His simple breakdown of the progression to learn surfing is brief and brilliant. Ditto his exposition on how he eats and why. This is also the first book I have read that extolls the virtues of Yoga that actually made me want to do Yoga. Ditto the SUP section (written in 2008, well ahead of the modern 2014 madness for it). In both cases he convinces by blending the physical exertion with the beauty of the process. In a nutshell that is one of the main things I learned and that has stuck with me - his aesthetic pursuit through sport. To be out in nature not just because of the challenge but also because of its beauty.
I was a little annoyed at all the glamour photography(shirtless, windblown hair, running through water repeated from every angle), book does read a little like the kind of bio that is handed out before a talk show that is all glowing about the subject. There is no denying Laird Hamilton is an exceptional athlete but he wins no prize on the humility front. Many interesting topics are conspicuous by their absence - relationship with his father primary one for me, only in the equipment section is he mentioned then only as a shaper of Laird's surfboards. A second one is the money one - jetting between two of the priciest parts of the USA (Hawaii and Malibu) takes some financial wherewithal which he never mentions. I am guessing both are on the negative side and so he follows the famous say nothing if it is not nice dictum. Gets points for decorum.
That said there are many truly useful parts to the book. He does really well in simplifying his methods and presenting the distilled essence. His simple breakdown of the progression to learn surfing is brief and brilliant. Ditto his exposition on how he eats and why. This is also the first book I have read that extolls the virtues of Yoga that actually made me want to do Yoga. Ditto the SUP section (written in 2008, well ahead of the modern 2014 madness for it). In both cases he convinces by blending the physical exertion with the beauty of the process. In a nutshell that is one of the main things I learned and that has stuck with me - his aesthetic pursuit through sport. To be out in nature not just because of the challenge but also because of its beauty.
July 24, 2017
In Force of Nature, legendary surfer and entrepreneur Laird Hamilton presents a wealth of information and inspiration, ranging from his philosophy on life to his epic workouts both inside and out of the gym. There is something for everyone in this book, and you will definitely walk away from these pages a bit wiser, a bit more adventurous, and a bit more excited about our world and the many ways to enjoy all it has to offer.
I was impressed with Laird’s simple but sound advice on risk-taking and the importance of challenging yourself—he has many sage things to say about the mind’s power to determine your reality. In addition, Laird offers heartfelt life lessons from his own experiences as a professional surfer and a family man, and he even shares a bit of Hawaiian wisdom to boot.
Besides being a phenomenal athlete, Laird is also unsurprisingly quite the popular fellow. Accordingly, many of his friends drop in with their own segments to share some practical tips—even Giada De Laurentiis shows up with a few of her tasty recipes. Photos showing exotic foods and beverages—along with plenty of shots of Laird’s workout routines, some yoga poses, as well as surfing and nature pics—all add a nice visual element to the text.
As a whole, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to revisiting it now and again to tap into the wisdom and inspiration that Laird offers up. If you are seeking to become more fit, more mindful, to eat healthier, or even if you just want to learn how to surf, Force of Nature delivers the goods, and you will gain much from its physical and spiritual lessons.
I was impressed with Laird’s simple but sound advice on risk-taking and the importance of challenging yourself—he has many sage things to say about the mind’s power to determine your reality. In addition, Laird offers heartfelt life lessons from his own experiences as a professional surfer and a family man, and he even shares a bit of Hawaiian wisdom to boot.
Besides being a phenomenal athlete, Laird is also unsurprisingly quite the popular fellow. Accordingly, many of his friends drop in with their own segments to share some practical tips—even Giada De Laurentiis shows up with a few of her tasty recipes. Photos showing exotic foods and beverages—along with plenty of shots of Laird’s workout routines, some yoga poses, as well as surfing and nature pics—all add a nice visual element to the text.
As a whole, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to revisiting it now and again to tap into the wisdom and inspiration that Laird offers up. If you are seeking to become more fit, more mindful, to eat healthier, or even if you just want to learn how to surf, Force of Nature delivers the goods, and you will gain much from its physical and spiritual lessons.
June 4, 2018
I wanted to like this book, I really did. Laird's feats are superhuman and I admire his business efforts as well.
Unfortunately, his writing felt scattered, with forced messages and wayyyy too many shots of him without a shirt (does he own one?). I get that he's trying to portray how we can all follow his example and be a stud, but at some point, c'mon...
Unfortunately, his writing felt scattered, with forced messages and wayyyy too many shots of him without a shirt (does he own one?). I get that he's trying to portray how we can all follow his example and be a stud, but at some point, c'mon...
October 20, 2009
What's great about Force of Nature is that you get a sneak peak into the world of Laird Hamilton--the greatest big-wave surfer, and arguably one of the greatest athletes in the world today.
Laird shares his workout routines (they vary), his yoga practices, and his fitness tips (like having a cardio "chaser" after weight training to flush the lactic acid out of your muscles and help recovery).
He also provides insights into his diet and includes "10 Foods That I love" (#1 is organic, free-range beef) and there were definitely some pleasant surprises as Laird "loves" espresso and will have between 4 and 8 shots over the course of a morning. We have a full review of Force of Nature on MindBodyGreen: MBG Bookshelf: Laird Hamilton's Force of Nature
Laird shares his workout routines (they vary), his yoga practices, and his fitness tips (like having a cardio "chaser" after weight training to flush the lactic acid out of your muscles and help recovery).
He also provides insights into his diet and includes "10 Foods That I love" (#1 is organic, free-range beef) and there were definitely some pleasant surprises as Laird "loves" espresso and will have between 4 and 8 shots over the course of a morning. We have a full review of Force of Nature on MindBodyGreen: MBG Bookshelf: Laird Hamilton's Force of Nature
December 29, 2008
The title of this book is perfect because Laird Hamilton really is a Force of Nature. He is such a phenomenal athelete that it is amazing to read about his workout routines and his life philosophy. The book covers four areas: mind, body, soul and of course surfing. In each area Laird discusses his philosophy and gives tips for excelling in all areas of your life. He comes across as such a regular guy that it's almost hard to believe how amazingly talented he is. Even if you aren't interested in surfing, this book explores the life of one of the best atheletes of our time and is worth the read.
If you get the Fit TV channel and get a chance to see Laird Hamilton's "Art of the Athelete" episode - it's like the video version of this book - totally amazing!
If you get the Fit TV channel and get a chance to see Laird Hamilton's "Art of the Athelete" episode - it's like the video version of this book - totally amazing!
July 9, 2009
OMG! This book is amazing. Laird has life dialed in for all that is good and will help with all aspects of life. I have been recommending this book to all of my friends and family. It is certainly interesting for me given that it is Laird, but I think it would be just as appealing to my Mom, who is not really familiar with surfing or Laird. I read "The Secret", I thought it was a joke, complete garbage! Laird's book should be sought after like the following of "The Secret". Utterly amazing and inspiring! Please read!
November 15, 2012
I first read about this extraordinary athlete in 'The Wave'. I then looked at some of the footage of him that's available on You Tube and was simple blown away. Laird has a respect for his world, his environment and his sport. Laird is an exceptional athlete - his talent and incredible story as an elite surfer is simply outstanding. I wanted to read more about him and was delighted to find this book that details his journey, his spiritual nature, his outlook on the world and his place in it and his relationship with others. The photos alone are worth the price of the book.
August 27, 2010
Working at the library, I run across interesting books.
This was one of them.
Some people are the 1% of the 1% of the cream of the crop. Laird, it seems, is just one of those people blessed with athleticism, intellect, drive, tenacity and discipline.
People like him give me strength to strive for whatever it is I want.
This was one of them.
Some people are the 1% of the 1% of the cream of the crop. Laird, it seems, is just one of those people blessed with athleticism, intellect, drive, tenacity and discipline.
People like him give me strength to strive for whatever it is I want.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews