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Muscle Boys: Gay Gym Culture ReviewWith the title and cover art as it is, one might speculate that this book is a sensationalist, popular culture romp, possibly infused with eroticism and beefy pectorals, (er . . . pictorials) of gay men and their torrid use of the gym. The tome is anything but. Alvarez has skillfully crafted a book that is academically structured and based, yet not at all dry. The book chronicles the early use of the gym--for example, he informs us that the word "gymnasium" comes from the ancient Greeks and translates to "a place where men exercise naked." Later the book examines various subcultures and lifestyles of gay men today and how the gym incorporates into their lives.Structured intelligently, beginning with the ancient Greeks (following a brief introduction), some readers may find the earlier chapters somewhat slow-reading because of the historical content; however, it is important to note that they are not incidental, but rather integral, as they provide the foundation and background to today's gym culture and even homosexuality. Following, Alvarez tackles contemporary subcultures/stereotypes that help the reader (who, incidentally, may fit into any one or more of them, but not be aware) understand better . . . well, gay gym culture(s). I, for instance, have a far better knowledge of hormones, steroid use, and HIV+ health maintenance, while at the same time, have a far more sensitive appreciation for gay men and their gym usage. According to the author, I have misused, and unfairly, mis-categorized the vast majority of gay, gym-going men as "muscle boys."
Through his use of direct quotations from hundreds of interviews and thousands of surveys, as well as his personal views, the author allows the reader to identify with others. More than once I felt a sense of "that's me . . . finally, someone else like me." There is a humanistic element to the book that is calming and comforting.
While I imagine this book is going to be primarily read by gays, I feel confidant that, by reading Alvarez's work, the sophisticated straight reader will not only garner a healthier understanding of gay culture and history but also a better understanding of men when it comes to issues like masculinity, steroids and body ideals.
I could go on and on, but don't want to sound overly affectionate for this work or give away too much and deny potential readers the discovery I had in reading. Besides, it's time to go to the gym . . .
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