Gymnast Dan Millman is the most prominent member of his school's gymnastics team but frequently suffers from nightmares. One night, awakened by a nightmare, he visits a 24-hour gas station and meets a mysterious old man who instantly jumps from the ground to the roof, offering philosophical words. Dan begs the old man to teach him these skills, nicknaming him Socrates. Socrates agrees but demands Dan undertake rigorous training, including diet restrictions, labor, and celibacy. Despite initial struggles, Dan’s performance improves significantly. However, a car accident plunges him into the depths of despair...