Sitting Kills, Moving Heals

December 1, 2011
In this thought-provoking book, former NASA scientist Vernikos, who saw how floating in outer space made astronauts lose muscle and bone, argues that out-of-shape Americans need to start doing exercises that make their bodies resist the force of gravity. The good news: dancing, jumping on a trampoline, vacuuming, raking leaves, walking up stairs, and gardening all count. Vernikos advocates playgrounds for senior citizens since they help them build muscle, lose fat, and improve their balance. As she notes, astronauts such as John Glenn, who returned to space in 1998 at age 77, head into outer space far fitter than most Americans. But they return to Earth with bodies that have aged three to four decades. Fortunately, good g-habits help them bounce back quickly. The same idea can work for couch potatoes, too. Consider this book a compelling call to action, or, as Vernikos terms it, a call to immediately start g-therapy. Instead of sitting (no gravity exertion there), Americans need to make like astronauts returning to Earth and get moving.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)