Every school kid in America knows that superheroes are different: Superman is a supernatural creature from another planet. By contrast, Batman is a mortal man who achieved his prowess through hard training, preparation and high-tech gadgets.
Alas, we cannot become Superman, but we can — as the character suggests and enthusiasts believe — achieve Batman’s skills. Perhaps this possibility is the greatest appeal to fans who prefer the Batman character over other superheroes.
“Becoming Batman: The Possibility of a Superhero” is mainly about two questions: Is it possible for a human to attain the skills and abilities of Batman, and what should we do to come close to achieving them?
The author is well-poised to answer these questions. He holds a master of science in kinesiology (a field of science that studies human movement) and a doctoral degree in neuroscience. He also holds advanced black belt ranks in the martial art sports karate and Raukuyu Kobujutsu (I confess that I had no clue what it is until I read the book).
The author knows whereof he writes.
The book covers a broad range of topics. It contains a well-structured introduction to human physiology and neurology. It describes the differences between strength and power training and how to train for strength and power, the main principles of training — overload and specificity, the effects of nutrition, food supplements, and hormones on muscular strength and endurance, the biomechanics of martial arts, and the material science of protective clothing, as well as many other topics.
After reading the book, readers will know the mechanisms by which the muscles generate force, what is happening with our bones as a result of strength training, what is happening in our bodies and brain when we fly to Europe and back and how to adjust to the jet lag, and when Batman should retire owing to aging (at 50, which was sad for me to know because I am older).
A substantial portion of the text is devoted to the martial art sports. It was interesting to learn that there are 127 of them and that the expression “martial art” is due to incorrect translation from Chinese and Japanese. Overall, the book is written in an accessible and appealing manner.
Not many of us, even the most gifted, can achieve Batman’s strength, skills, bravery and commitment. But if young readers will strive for these qualities, they will experience the benefits of hard work and dedication. And though they may not reach the ultimate goal of becoming Batman, the lessons learned will teach them how to be successful throughout their lives. And we all win.
The book was reviewed also by two invited readers: a 14-year-old boy who is graduating from a junior high school and his dad (I should admit nepotism, as the boy is my grandson). The boy summarized his opinion in one word: “Interesting.” The dad’s conclusion was also brief: “Educational.” My personal judgment was: “Well-written.”
If a book is interesting, educational and well-written, what else can be expected from a text describing how to become Batman?
Vladimir M. Zatsiorsky is professor of kinesiology at Penn State.
In Print
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