Great Shape: The First Exercise Guide for Larger Women

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Espousing the philosophy that ``fat and fit are not mutually exclusive,'' the authors offer welcome encouragement to their fellow large women who also believe themselves to be victims of ``fat-hating attitudes.'' ``The pleasures, benefits, challenges, and full-out exuberant fun of dance, sport, and movement are the birthrights of all people, not just the already athletic and fit,'' maintain Lyons, a nurse, and Burgard, a dance instructor. Proponents of the ``setpoint'' theory, they claim that metabolism and heredity have more bearing on size than caloric intake and expenditure. Although healthful eating is advanced, dieting per se is deemphasized, and the low-impact aerobic exercises, here illustrated, are put forth as an adult form of ``recess.'' Some advice has wider application and will appeal to anyone battling the ``couch-potato'' and ``no time, no money'' syndromes, fear of failure or injury, or the still-extant problems of competing in games traditionally considered ``male only.'' (February 26)

Library Journal

This refreshing book proves that fit and fat are not mutually exclusive, and explores the myriad activities large women can enjoy. Two chapters describe and demonstrate exercises, but most of the book discusses such popular activities as swimming, jogging, and aerobic dance. The book emphasizes creating a positive exercise experience, which will help to generate self-esteem and eliminate the self-defeating diet cycle. Excellent appendixes include listings of support groups, classes, and suppliers of large-size exercise clothing. Recommended. Susan B. Hagloch, Tuscarawas Cty. P.L., New Philadelphia, Ohio