Aerobics Program For Total Well-Being: Exercise, Diet , And
Emotional Balance

Aerobics Program For Total Well-Being: Exercise, Diet , And Emoti...

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Editorial Reviews

The bestselling author of Running Without Fear presents a complete program for total well-being--physically, nutritionally, emotionally--that includes dozens of ways to stay fit, three weeks of nutritious menus, guidelines for the 22 components of a comprehensive medical exam, and more.

Customer Reviews

My favorite dog-eared reference book!

Reviewed by E. Otto, 2009-09-11

I have followed the Cooper's (husband/wife) aerobics plan since the 1970's, and I refer to Ken's "Point System" (in the Appendix) almost daily. I use those points to attain weekly, monthly and yearly fitness goals, no gym or personal coach needed. As far as the contents of the rest of the book goes, it's sensible advice to build a lifestyle around. And I have to admit... having five dogs that want to race walk or jog with me at the drop of the hat certainly dosn't hurt!

Aerobics Program For Total Well Being: by Ken Cooper

Reviewed by Donald A. Brigge, 2009-08-26

One of the most comprehensive studies on fitness as related to exercise, diet, mental well being, etc. all substantiated by actual research data.

Great System/ Some Quirky Sentiments

Reviewed by thunder road, 2009-06-05

After misplacing my copy of Cooper's earlier "The Aerobic Way," I purchased this book. This book is a bit weaker.

Cooper's unique "point system" is the book's greatest asset. The system is an elegantly simple, scientifically sound way to help you achieve health. Cooper assigns aerobic points to a wide variety of exercises, another huge plus.

How's good is this system? I have tracked my Cooper points since college in the late 80's as a runner/ jogger. As 40 approached, my knees began to rebel. To quell the revolt, I decided to switch from running/ jogging to cycling and cross-country machines. Having lost the earlier book, I went out of my way to buy this book so I could determine the point-level of the new regimen. That should tell the reader of the utility and draw of Cooper's over-all approach.

One vital thing Cooper added, which had been missing from the earlier book, is a series of pragmatic, easy-to-follow dietary recommendations. Eat lots of fruits, veggies and whole grains: complex carbohydrates. Focus on lean meats and low-fat dairy products. Avoid processed foods and gratuitous fats and simple sugars.

My criticisms begin with Cooper's questionable blanket statements regarding the fit versus sedentary: fit people are more creative, stress hardy, happy, effective and independent thinking than those in poor condition. Is this opinion or data driven? Never disclosing the sources of his statements, Cooper then prescribes exercise to improve a person's mental heath. Again, has this been proven with a double blind or thorough, longitudinal study? Or just dogma?

Lastly, there is a strange, almost comical messiah complex sprinkled through the text. Cooper mentions quite a few times that he was "chosen by God" to spread his gospel of preventative medicine. This is overkill, even for a Christian like me. A simple "I thank God for giving me the opportunity to help people lead healthier, happier lives," in either the Preface or Dedication pages would have sufficed.

With all these down-sides, however, I still have to grant the book a four-star rating based on Cooper's excellent point system and solid, if incomplete dietary recommendations. Now, if we could only weed out the silly pop-psychology and evangelical fervor, we'd have a great book...

Out Dated

Reviewed by Chuck Rightmire, 2009-02-18

Overall, Cooper's book on Aerobic Fitness has some excellent info on beginning a fitness program if you are a beginner to exercising. However, a lot of the information that has been compiled is out of date from the late 1970's and early 1980's. Do not use this book if you are designing your own Exercise Program. Do more research on the internet by simply using the search word "exercise"; you will have a wealth of current knowledge and numerous references to review. Do not start an exercise program without first consulting with your doctor.

Great guide for a better life - again

Reviewed by Woody, 2009-01-06

This book served me as a guide and inspiration for major life changes through the 1980's. Over the last 8-10 years I had not only lost the book but had lost the motivation it provided. I immediately reread it on receipt and have been slowly moving my eating and exercise habits back to that which had served me so well.

I would strongly recommend Dr Cooper & his philosophy to anyone who is serious about taking control of their life. Hard work that pays tremendous dividends.