No-Risk Abs

June 13, 2011
Fitness buffs beware: "abdominal exercises are never without potential risk, because they place in motion the very core of our bodies," warns physical therapist Calais-Germain (Anatomy of Movement). Calais-Germain's latest book develops an abdominal routine focusing on a deeper understanding of the anatomical relationships involved: specifically the abdominal proximity to the vertebral column, the spinal cord; the abdominal cavity and perineum; the organs of respiration, circulation and digestion. Beginning with an extensive overview of the abdominal region of the body (this is not your everyday flat abs in five days book), Calais-Germain takes a straight-forward approach that reads like a medical guide but for a wider demographic. Readers will take away effective exercises but will likely leave behind some classics, such as "the crunch." This book is especially valuable for those who work with the elderly or who are returning to exercise after an absence. It would be very hard to go wrong with these moves. Photos/Illustrations.