Liz Neporent and Suzanne Schlosberg
This is a fun, no-nonsense, information packed guide to weight training for the newcomer. Note: it's a "Dummies" book and not geared towards experienced weight trainers. But I would think almost anybody could learn something from this book.
Some of the aspects of the book I liked best: It includes fitness requirements from various organizations, such as the U.S, Marine Academy and the Seattle Fire Department, that are fun to measure yourself against. It outlines weight training etiquette (a chapter I wish some of the people at my gym would read!). It gives you detailed instructions for performing at least 18 different exercises for each body part, and there is a good variety of moves for both home and gym use. They explain what the "real-life benefits" are to working each body part, and typical mistakes to avoid.
It includes ten typical weight training goofs, ten things to do with a rubber exercise band and ten sample routines for athletes (cyclists, runners, etc.) It is happily free from a lot of the mumbo jumbo you see in weight lifting magazines, and explains why most supplements offer no benefit. Finally, it is at times a very funny book. Another solid effort from this duo.
Stephanie Waite
1/17/99
