Get Stronger, Feel Younger: The Cardio- And Diet-Free Plan to Firm Up and Lose Fat

Dr. Wayne Westcott is an icon in the fitness business. He's forgotten more than most people writing health books will ever know. A previous reviewer's concerns about a few of Westcott's exercises being potentially dangerous for the spine would suggest that person did not actually read this book, or has some kind of agenda. The book is marketed toward women---they buy the most fitness books---but before even purchasing "Get Stronger, Feel Younger", I e-mailed Westcott to ask if the program works just as well for men. He cared enough to reply and said the program is used by, and designed, for both men and women. The fitness program makes a well-researched case that the single best thing you can do for long term weight control is strength training. Westcott and Gary Reinl explain in great detail that when you lift weights the right way, you burn calories during and after the session, and then increase your metabolism 24/7 which creates a deficit and fights off fat and aging. The authors also believe the best way to achieve maximum results while still finding time for the rest of your life is to do one set to muscle failure. Beginners exercise for 20 minutes 2 or 3 times a week, advanced for 30 minutes 2 or 3 times a week. That's really it. The programs can be done at a fitness facility (recommended), a Bowflex or similar home gym, or with dumbbells and rubber tubing with a flat weight bench. The plans are laid out with great pictures and meticulous instruction. You will have no doubt what you're supposed to do. There is also a section on sensible nutrition which does not include calorie or gram counting, nor does it go low calorie the way Jim Karas' diets do. The obligatory recipes are also included. I love this book. I'd give it 4 1/2 stars if I could. I have only a few minor gripes. Besides being silly that the book is marketed solely toward women, I would like to have seen a variety of programs to fight off boredom and keep muscles guessing moving forward. A flexibility routine and more on cardio for cardiovascular health would also be welcome. To be fair, the book completely delivers on its title: "Get Stronger, Feel Younger: The Cardio and Diet-Free Plan to Firm Up and Lose Fat." It doesn't try to be all things to all people.

Get Stronger, Feel Younger, is a must read for anyone who cares about thier health. This book provides simple and safe guidelines on how any-body can reach thier goal of getting stronger, building lean muscle and losing excess body fat. I highly recommend this book!