The Pain-Free Program

August 15, 2005
We all know that exercise is good for us, but too much of a good thing -or the right thing done wrong -can lead to serious musculoskeletal problems. Carey, an exercise physiologist, and DiNubile, a sports medicine physician, have each written a book that will help people safely start, maintain, and build an exercise program. Both authors take philosophical approaches rooted in therapeutic modality, meaning that they prescribe exercises based on the interaction of the whole body. Carey believes that many musculoskeletal problems result from muscular length and strength imbalances. To correct these imbalances, he has developed the Function First program, which focuses on proper body alignment, kinesthetic awareness, and core body strength and stability.

DiNubile, meanwhile, presents many of the same core body exercises as Carey; to boot, there is an extensive preexercise screening questionnaire and advice on aesthetics, weightlifting, diet, and seeking medical advice in case of injury. Both titles are well organized, include helpful illustrations, and impart advice that is in line with what trainers today are offering at many top health clubs. Both are highly recommended for public, consumer health, and human resource collections. -Howard Fuller, Stanford Health Lib., Palo Alto, CA

Copyright 2005 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.