Karen Voight
First off, I read this book a few months back so I may be a little out of order. Basically Karen's book consists of the BEST photography I have ever seen in a fitness book. In my opinion she has an awesome physique and I would love to have that look too.
Karen explains the reasons behind exercises, as most good book do, with plenty of form pointers. She also has an excellent stretch section to the book, as well as a few recipes. She explains the importance of mind set, exercise and diet. Although I can't stand her videos I find the book a welcome addition to my collection.
I know this review is short, but the book actually is a relatively short read and I doubt anyone would be disappointed.
Stephanie Bridges
07/22/98
A beautifully photographed, over-sized book in a spiral binding. The most useful sections are the first and last few, where she explain how to become a regular exerciser. I now often think of her exhortation to give 100% -- that is, to concentrate fully on techniques, etc. The middle section of the book demonstrates a full resistance-training program using a chair, a pair of dumbbells, and a body bar. The copious photographs make it possible to learn the exercises from the book alone, a rarity in exercise publications. Many of the exercises are similar to the ones in "Strong and Smooth Moves." The last section of the book returns to the challenges of creating a successful fitness and diet regimen. Voight concentrates on the psychological pitfalls, such as flowing off work-outs because the exercise program does not fit one's lifestyle. The book concludes with an eating plan, recipes, and answers to the 20 most-asked questions. Voight advocates a body weight percentage that would be impossible, if not dangerous, for most women to achieve.
I am not a big fan of Karen Voight's videos but I did enjoy this book. There are many useful pointers and it would be worth checking out of the library. (Libraries always seem to have all the exercise books but not so many of the exercise videos.) This book would be most useful for those struggling with maintaining a consistent exercise program or who are just starting out.
Gretchen Vaughn
vaughngr@aol.com
4/13/99
