Fitness and Health

Rating:
Summary: A solid, science-based explanation of fitness and health
Review: I purchased this book as a reference for the current understanding of why exercise is important and how it is best performed. In the end, I found it to be partway between a standard fitness manual and a textbook...it has lots of explanations of how your body works (touching on many of the subjects I covered in a recent physiology class), plenty of reasons why it's in your best interest to follow a fitness program (as opposed to, say, simply dieting), and sound advice on what types of programs work (i.e. proper intensity, the importance of stretching, when to work out, etc.) The author constantly refers to several scientific studies, letting you know that the contents aren't the latest get-fit-quick scheme. Included in the book are illustrations and photos of numerous exercises that can be done outside of a gym in order to increase flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.

Sometimes I felt that the author was targeting an age group a few years older than I (I'm 26), and I found several sections to be somewhat repetitive. Overall, however, I found this to be an interesting read and a sound guide during my fledgling steps toward getting fit.

Rating:
Summary: A complete book
Review: Very easy to read and to understand, every concept is given with statistic/scientific demonstrations. No mystery behind the subject. This book is especially good for people interested in going deeper in the subject from every different point of view. This in not for people who simply want to be told how to gain health and fitness, but it's for people who also want to know why...