Todd Durkin is a force to be reckoned with. This book will challenge you to make the changes you need to be the best version of you. Though challenging, he is extremely encouraging. I was blessed to be part of the launch team for this book. I had some life circumstances that cropped up and made it difficult, but this book has definitely been encouraging to me that I do need to make changes for myself and that it's okay. It's not selfish to be the best version of yourself and to get your mind right.

First Quarter: Game Plan and Kickoff
This section is about getting your thoughts in line: dream big, get your thoughts under control, and don’t let the obstacles get you down. This is one of the fat sections, taking up a good 50 pages. Todd tells the story about his time on NBC’s Strong, and how he dealt with some of the setbacks and challenges on that show. He also shares about his upbringing and the truth that no matter what you have or don’t have, you’re going to have challenges thrown in your path, and you’ve got to have the mindset to overcome. You’re only as strong as your own mindset thinks you are–so you have to plan in advance. That plan includes giving back to your community and giving to others, and Todd makes that clear too. How could he not? He’s given so much back to all of the communities that have helped to raise him up.

Second Quarter: Execution of Key Plays
Twenty pages is pretty short for a section in this book. But how many ways can you say “control your habits or they will control you?” Okay, so maybe Todd doesn’t say that, exactly, but once you have your mindset it is your habits that control you–how you spend your time, energy, and focus matter. There are definitely books that hammer this point home in a more solid way, such as Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit. Todd gets the point across though: if you want the freedom to succeed, you’ve got to discipline yourself, and that means committing to habits.

Now you have to bear in mind that Todd is specifically laying out what has worked for him. So, for example, he’s big on getting up before the sun, because it works for him–he’s got a family and a business to run, so the early am is when he gets his “me time.” There’s nothing magic (in general) about that hour, it’s just what works for Todd. If you don’t have a spouse and kids, or you do shift work, your own magic hours might be another time slot for you. Todd lays out his morning routine and his evening routine, and while they work for him again, YOUR mileage may vary. For example, one of Todd’s points is “no caffeine after 2:00 p.m.” While he vaguely refers to a study about consuming caffeine close to bed-time, he doesn’t even tip a hat to some very important known science about caffeine: we know there are genes that code for caffeine metabolism! I have had a genetic test so I know I’m a fast metabolizer (I can have a triple mocha and then take a nap without any issues), and afternoon caffeine isn’t a big deal for me. I mean, I’m usually going decaff for after-dinner-coffee, but a 4 p.m. latte isn’t going to do jack to my sleep.

Third Quarter: Performing Optimally
I’m going to be honest with you: this section is the worst part of the book. When I say that, I mean that Todd is not in his lane here–but if you’ve been paying attention, you know I feel very strongly that the vast majority of the fitness industry (certified personal trainers, yoga instructors, group fitness instructors, barre teachers, strength and conditioning coaches) needs to NEVER give out nutritional advice. Why? Most of it is absolute rot.

When Todd recommends breaking a sweat most days during the week, that’s pretty non-controversial, establish best-practice that is evidence-based. Like there’s actual science to support it. Added bonus, there isn’t any harm in following this advice.

Hydration, also relatively non-controversial, though Todd’s endorsement of “Himalayan salt” really should have been an endorsement of a full spectrum electrolyte (and I’d prefer that accompanied by an quickie explanation of how electrolytes work to regulate hydration, and how it is possible to drink water when dehydrated and STAY dehydrated if your electrolytes are out of whack).

Then Todd goes off the rails and states definitively that you should “consider going gluten-free to get rid of brain fog and bloating,” as though these are universal problems for all people. News flash: they’re not, and the evidence does NOT support going gluten-free for the vast majority of people. (If you have Celiac Disease, of course you must stop eating gluten. But most of us do not.) This section basically regurgitates pop-diet-advice about “gluten sensitivity” that is not established as fact. Personally, I really wish fitness professionals would let the RDs and PhDs in nutrition science give evidence-based recommendations.

Similarly, his recommendation that everyone, regardless of their current health status and without any evidence to support it, take supplements is basically garbage. His first two recommendations have to do with specific amino acids. The science is far from consensus on amino acids, with some evidence showing that taking branched-chain amino acids leads to less serotonin in the brain, as the BCAAs limit uptake of tryptophan (which is a serotonin precursor). There are also a number of studies that show taking BCAAs actually REDUCES muscle protein synthesis. Todd recommend fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids, MCT oil, and a multivitamin–all of these are popular magazine and blogger recommendations without a hard basis in fact. Todd cites no evidence for these suggestions (other than that they work for him), and he doesn’t talk about the alternatives either. So long story short, do your homework on supplements. Don’t rely on Todd, or any other fitpro. Instead, look to the peer-reviewed research (try a PubMed search) and consult an evidence-based registered dietitian.

Fourth Quarter: Finishing Strong
Like any good motivational volume, this one ends with inspiration. The two chapters in this section are “tap into the whispers” and “live a live worth telling a story about.” Great advice even without the content. Now I knew this book was being published by Baker Books, which is a Christian book publisher. If you are a Christian, you’re probably thrilled that a famous fitness professional is openly writing to witness for Jesus. I’m cool with that too, even though I’m not a Christian. Who can argue with allowing your faith to play a role in your life? I mean really, if a god/goddess/higher power (by whatever name) plays a role in your life, why shouldn’t you pay attention to what s/he (or they, or it) have to tell you? Personally, I celebrate that. If you’re not Christian, I don’t think you’ll find the book “too much” (unless you happen to offend easily, in which case I don’t know how you get on in the US these days). You can just sub your personal beliefs for Todd’s as you read along.

#Get Your Mind Right# by Todd Durkin is a non fiction inspirational Christian book. Todd Durkin is an international strength, speed and conditioning coach, personal trainer, body worker and motivational speaker. He is also an author. He founded Fitness Quest 10 in San Diego. His book motivate and encourage people to watch their mind set when they approach fitness. He gives important points to consider when He considers the mind set. His principles have worked well for very successful athletes like Drew Brees. Drew Brees wrote the introduction in this book. He shared how much Todd Durkin has helped him . Thank you to the author, netgalley, the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. I will post my review on Amazon, facebook, Bookbub, my blog, Goodreads, for church staff.

Todd hit it out of the ballpark with this book and the timing could not be better. I started reading this book during the COVID-19 shutdown and it kept me focused and inspired as I approached each day. This book can be read straight through or by chapter depending on where you need encouragement and focus. Todd always gives his best, and this book is no different. I highly recommend this book!

I absolutely loved this book by Todd Durkin. He managed to bring to life through words his trademark encouragement laced in pure energy. This books is filled with all the tips and tricks to get yourself physically, mentally and spiritually equipped to live your best possible life! So worth the read.

I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.

I am glad I didn't stop reading at the end of the first third of the book. He takes that amount of text to take us through his knee replacement surgery, his audition to be on a TV show (Strong), and his experiences growing up in the Durkin family. (He later recounts his torn labrum as a result of being on the show and being in a comeback challenge.) Part of Durkin's instruction style is to learn by example, hence the lengthy stories, I think. I really had no interest in reading about those experiences, however.

The last two thirds of the book is what I was looking for. He gets to his ten principles with suggestions and strategies. I like his suggestions for morning and evening routine. He also gives ideas for exercise routines, eating right, the importance of recovery (including many techniques and devices), and the importance of a spiritual relationship with Jesus.

This is a good book for readers who would like to learn a great deal about Durkin and the influence he has had on the elite athletes he works with (he drops quite a few big names). And I should have counted the number of times Durkin mentions his sponsor, Under Armour. He highly recommends their sleeping products, for example. I didn't find any new strategies or insights here not found in other books on achieving peak performance. People who watched the reality show Strong might appreciate Durkin's long descriptions of his experiences on it.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

Get your Mind right is full of useful ideas to get you moving in the direction you want in your life. Todd shares some difficult times in his own life to show you how powerful the mind really is. I would recommend this book to others.

Engaging and easy to follow, this is an inspiring book from the successful entrepreneur Todd Durkin.

Get your mind right is definitely a mantra for working on your thought life that will resonate with people. At first glance you wouldn't expect that this includes discussion about faith. I think Todd does a great job of showing how he integrates his faith into every decision in his life. I imagine this book would encourage those without faith the benefits of including God and prayer into their life in a nonthreatening way. And if you have no interest in faith, it still has a lot of great tools about mindset and goal setting. The faith portions are included in just the right amount as Todd is truthful about who he is, but doesn't discuss faith to the point that it would turn off a more secular reader. This book would be a great gift for a friend who could benefit from seeing an example of faith in action. It would also make a great gift for so many people in your life: the sports fan, the athlete, the personal development junkie, or the newbie to personal development.

I was blessed to receive an advanced copy Of this book in exchange for my honest review! This book was great! Todd uses his personal story of struggles he overcame to motivate us. From start to finish I was motivated to be a better version of myself. It made we want to be a better wife, mother, and teacher. I want to put more effort into my workouts, and daily work commitments. It is important to get your mind set right, as it will take your further toward your goals. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to be more and do more!

I had heard about the trainer Todd Durkin from my friend and trainer Carolyn, who is a member of Durkin's mastermind group. So I was interested to read this book and learn about Durkin, who has positively influenced my friend. Get Your Mind Right is a combination memoir, self-help and Christian inspirational book. I like reading in all of these genres, plus I am a nutritionist, so this book was up my alley.
Even though Durkin is a trainer, the majority of this book has to do with mental and spiritual health, not just physical. There are short chapters on exercise and nutrition, but if you want details in either of these areas, this will not be the book for you. On the other hand if you would like to be inspired and get some good suggestions about how to improve your mental outlook and execution, this book will be great for you.
Durkin has trained many professional athletes and this book may be especially appealing to men who are athletically inclined.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Todd Durkin has done it again with a book that is a total game-changer for anyone seeking a life reset! In “Get Your Mind Right: 10 Keys to Unlock Your Potential and Ignite Your Success”, Todd’s genuine passion, warmth, and generosity of heart takes you through a journey of knowledge that will help you re-think what is vital in order to live your best life without fear.

Todd shares a holistic approach to personal success in this book, guiding us to the realization that getting our mind right is not just about attitude, but a combination of nurturing our best physical, emotional, social, and spiritual health. The book is a must read for all, and one you will return to, time and time again, for reference and support. Buy the book. Get your mind right.

Thank you, Todd, for this beautiful gift to the world!

Thanks to Baker Books for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy!

I finished reading Todd Durkin’s book Get Your Mind Right and am so impressed with not only the valuable information shared, but the way it all flowed and linked together his many different points and Keys! This guy knows how to drive a point home, give all the facts to support it, all the while making it such an enjoyable reading experience. He truly gives such a deep dive view into his beliefs and experiences with real life affirming tips to be able to help you Get Your Mind Right! This will be my go-to book whenever I need motivation or tips to remind me what I can do for my health and mindset. I really appreciate that he shared his deep belief in God, which is right in alignment with my belief, and gave me encouragement to openly share it as he did. If you are struggling with your health, your mindset or generally just need good motivation to stay on track, this is the book for you! It will motivate, inspire, teach, and make you smile while prompting you to Get Your Mind Right! Thank you Todd for writing this amazing book and pouring your heart and soul into it! #ForeverGratefulFan

I received a digital copy advanced. Great tidbits to help anyone in this this thing called life. Check it out!

Todd Durkin does an amazing job with this book! It is full of wonderful stories that will make you laugh, cry and think deeply on how to take the habits and transform your life. It is an easy read and hard to put down once you have started. This is a must have for your book collection! Thank you Baker Books for the Advanced Reader Copy!

I was not familiar with Todd Durkin before reading this book but something told me that I needed to. Everything he said hit me like a ton of bricks. No sugar-coating. Due to coronavirus, I have been struggling to get back into a good exercise routine. I really think this will give me the push I need to get my mind right and quit making excuses. *I received an ARC of this title but my opinion is entirely my own.

This book is not an ordinary self-help book. Todd covers all the bases in his book, “Get Your Mind Right.” Todd’s writing style is easy to read. It’s a great balance of personal stories, information, and straight fire! I appreciate the way Todd breaks down everything down and gets into the why and how we should do the things he’s suggesting.

Get Your Mind Right is just what I needed for a reset. Not only does Todd give practical advice on health and wellness, but on organizing your life so you can be the best you can be. How many of us struggle daily to get our minds right?
As a mom, entrepreneur and middle school teacher, this book is one I will recommend in each of those settings. Entrepreneurs, athletes, professionals, anyone who wants to get 1% better, will benefit from Todd's practical teachings.
Todd Durkin is full of a contagious positive energy and passion that will leave you feel capable, encouraged, empowered and impacted to bring your best every time. You will be taking all the notes while reading this book!

I was given a #NetGalley copy of #GetYourMindRight in exchange for an honest review. This book is a great mix of health, wellness and personal development. Todd has 10 key points he walks you through with the goal of becoming 1% better each day. A must read for those who have big dreams and those who may be stuck currently.