Muscle, Bone and Soul
Three unique Step-By-Step Books reviewed by Jackie M.
We're going to look at three new books that have been packaged in similar ways. One deals with Strength, another with Bones and a third with the practice of T'ai Chi.
Each book is designed to look like a folder. They close with a handy folding clasp and are spiral bound. Once opened, each book becomes a Stand-Up guide that offers step-by-step exercises with accompanying pictures. Unlike many books in this genre, these books do not leave anything to the imagination. I have often been frustrated by instructional exercise books that spell out six steps but show only two. These books show you where your hands and feet should be for each step and you WILL get these exercise right by following along.
Although the first two books are marketed to woman, I found that these exercises are perfect for Men, Woman and young Adults interested in this type of training. T'ai Chi is, absolutely, for everyone.
Let's look at the first book:
Strength Training for Beginners By Joan Bassey, ph D & Susan
Dinan
Strength Training for Beginners gives
women of 35 and up a chance to look and feel younger, tone up, reverse
symptoms of osteoporosis, and increase energy, all through a simple, scientifically
sound, strength-training program that can be easily incorporated into
even the busiest lifestyle. Whether you're a bona-fide couch potato or
a more active fitness buff, you'll find it easy to follow these exercises,
which are cleverly laid out in large print and in full color, step-by-step
photographs, in a unique spiral-bound, stand-up package that can be conveniently
placed on the exercise mat or a table top.
Starting with simple warm-up stretches, the program includes a series
of shaping, toning, and flattening exercises, with and without simple
weights, all of which can be performed at home and easily modified for
beginners and older women. Each exercise is accompanied by important information
on the exercise's purpose, the correct technique, and how to customize
the movement if you suffer from weak or swollen joints. With just two
sessions per week, research has proven that you'll be on your way to looking
and feeling as much as 20 years younger!
The next book goes from Muscle to the Bone:
Strength
Training for Strong Bones: A Step-by-Step Program to Prevent Osteoporosis
and Stay Fit and By Joan Bassey, ph D & Susan Dinan
Strength Training for Strong Bones is a safe, specially devised exercise
program for women of all ages that will help protect you from osteoporosis
and achieve stronger muscles, a trimmer body, and better posture and balance.
Finally, we look at "T'ai Chi" for beginners.
T'ai
Chi for Beginners By Paul Crompton
T'ai chi is a series of exercises helping to combat stress and fatigue and improve flexibility, muscle tone, and general health; think of it as "meditation in movement," combining slow, graceful movement with calm, regular breathing. Though highly physical, t'ai chi places far less strain on the body that most other exercises; and with regular practice, t'ai chi can reduce stress and stimulate the body's production of endorphins, making this exercise a great natural mood lifter.
This book offers a complete introduction to t'ai chi exercises, taking breathing, focus, visualization, and the flow of chi "vital energy" or "Life Force" into account. T'ai chi movements are learned together in a sequence called a Form, and each exercise is accompanied by an explanation on its purpose, the proper technique, and modifications to accommodate those who suffer from weak or swollen joints.
The benefits of T'ai Chi include:
* Improved muscle tone and flexibility.
* Stress Relief
* Better coordination and fine-tuned nervous system.
* Harmony between body and mind
This fully illustrated stand up guide is perfect for both beginners and more experienced practitioners.
Final words from Jackie M.: I can't say one book is better than the others because each has a lot to offer. I've always enjoyed exercising and learning T'ai Chi has always been on my list of "things to do," so I did have a lot of fun with this last book.
Bottom line: All three books are packaged perfectly. I love that they stand up. I can turn to an exercise, prop it up on my table and follow the step-by-step instructions without getting lost. Each illustration is big and clear. The language, in all three, is very easy to follow.
Get one, get all, just get exercising!
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