Fitness for Dummies

In the exercise world, there's something new in equipment, research, gadgets, videos, and Web sites just about every day. Health clubs are offering innovative new classes like cardio kickboxing and firefighter boot camp, and nifty new machines, like the elliptical trainer. Meanwhile, scientists have published scores of new studies suggesting that exercise may, among other things, improve memory, reduce the risk of breast cancer, and give you a mood boost. Fitness For Dummies, 2nd Edition, updates you on all the latest – the good, the bad, and the totally weird. But the central mission of this book is to tackle your fears, whether you worry that operating a stairclimber requires a degree in mechanical engineering or fret that no matter what exercise routine you start, sooner or later you'll end up back in the recliner. This book is for anyone who wants to Set realistic fitness goals Analyze your eating habits Maximize your cardio workout Demystify strength equipment C hoose a health club This down-to-earth guide tells you the stuff you really want to know, such as: Will you burn more fat if you exercise at a slower pace? Which brands of home exercise equipment are most reliable? Can you actually become "Rock Solid in 6 Weeks," like the magazines say? Which weight training exercises are best for beginners? What the heck is Pilates, and how do you pronounce it? How many days a week do you really need to work out? How can you tell if a fitness trainer is qualified? Will exercise ever be fun? Don't become a fitness statistic. The fact is, among people who start an exercise program, half quit within eight weeks. Fitness For Dummies, 2nd Edition, presents strategies for making exercise a habit and explains the basics of healthy eating so that you steer clear of fad diets and useless supplements. This book gives you the knowledge and motivation to stick with fitness for the rest of your life.