1 - Evolution is only increased genetic contribution to the next generation. Random mutations that help with that will become more common. It's not a magical process that makes us better.

2 - It turns out that your mind does control it directly. The greatest predictor of improved muscular strength is how strongly you can intentionally contract that muscle. Unfortunately, you learn to do that through exercise :|

I happen to love the exercise so I’ll happily have it this way! Especially if (like me) you’ve crossed over the starting hurdle and you are building/maintaining real muscle - it’s awesome!