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Super Body, Super Brain: The Workout That Does It All    by Michael Gonzalez-Wallace Amazon.com order for
Super Body, Super Brain
by Michael Gonzalez-Wallace
Order:  USA  Can
HarperCollins, 2010 (2010)
Hardcover, e-Book

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* * *   Reviewed by Hilary Williamson

In his Foreword to this new book by personal trainer and fitness expert Michael Gonzalez-Wallace, neurobiologist John H. Martin tells us that 'Super Body, Super Brain adds up to an excellent cognitive workout masquerading as a smart, efficient way to condition your body.'

In the Introduction, the author promises 'exercises demanding balance, coordination, and concentration for a superior brain workout, combined with aerobic, strength-training moves that rev up your metabolism and make your muscles lean and strong.' Having trained in martial arts for the last decade, this makes a great deal of sense to me.

Part 1 of the book (the first third) explains The Basics Behind the Brain-Muscle Connection, including how 'learning new motor-coordination patterns' can 'create new synapses and strengthen existing neural connections'; the impact of regular exercise on mood and health; and correct technique in exercises and meditation.

Part 2 covers the exercises themselves, in 5+ levels. A personal Fitness Quiz tells you what hand weights (if any) to use; the only other equipment needed is an exercise mat or carpet, a timer, and shoes. Gonzalez-Wallace recommends doing ten-minute routines three times a day, six days a week. Exercises are explained clearly, with photographs showing stages of movement.

Further chapters address a Brain/Wallking Circuit, as well as the benefits of this kind of training (with physical and mental stimulation) for children - there's also an exercise circuit for parents and kids to do together. A final chapter talks about diet, and includes healthy yet enticing recipes (the Green Tea-Blueberry Smoothie and Spice-Rubbed Tuna appeal to me!)

If any of your New Year resolutions related to improving health, and focus - or these are ongoing goals for you - and you are motivated to follow through on a personal fitness program, then I recommend Super Body, Super Brain as an excellent resource for the entire family.

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