If you're a non-exerciser, Quick Fit gives you a simple, manageable program of aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises that you can do--no kidding--in 15 minutes. With all the fitness books that promise the moon (or at least eternal slimness, youth and health), it's refreshing to have one that delivers what it says: a quick, sound program that gets you moving and gives you just enough of a workout to turn you from a lazy loafer to an energetic exerciser. Step-by-step exercises are well-illustrated and clearly described, from simple walking to abdominal crunches, a short set of strength exercises, and stretching. Motivational tips annihilate every excuse to return to the couch. Testimonials and anecdotes from people who have used the program illuminate how normal people with busy schedules and physical or emotional challenges adjust Bradley's workout to fit their lives. Richard R. Bradley III is an exercise physiologist and director of the Occupational Health and Fitness Program at the U.S. Department of Transportation. Sarah Wernick is an award-winning health writer and co-author of Strong Women Stay Young. Recommended for people who have been discouraged by workouts that were too hard, too discouraging, too time-consuming, or too boring. --Joan Price
From Publishers Weekly
The key to healthful living is no mystery-it's just regular, moderate exercise that anyone at any age or in any condition can do, say Bradley and Wernick in this step-by-step fitness manual. Bradley, the fitness director for the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Wernick, a health writer (Strong Women Stay Young), offer a 15-minute fitness routine that even the most sedentary readers would find difficult to sit out. No sweating, showering or changing of clothes is required, just a consistent commitment to being active. It seems too good to be true, doesn't it? Only 10 minutes of aerobic exercise daily, which can include a brisk walk or low-impact floor workout, along with four-minutes of weight-lifting and one minute of stretching will, the authors promise, garner noticeable results in strength, flexibility and muscle tone over time. Since many people are unable or unwilling to devote the optimal hour to physical activity, the authors' simple, fast program may be just what the doctor ordered for sedentary folks; for people already moderately active, though, this program won't be much of a challenge. Bradley is a hearty cheerleader and sprinkles his book with hokey mottoes like: "Inch by inch fitness is a cinch. Yard by yard makes it hard." However, he's also a realist: "I'm not promising you'll be transformed in just fifteen minutes...but you'll definitely feel energized." The simple instructions, clear illustrations, motivational plan and convincing testaments from DOT personnel who have adopted the routine should inspire readers, whether they be habitually sluggish or simply sorely pressed for time. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Washington Post, January 6, 2004
"The routine will get you moving without wearing you out or monopolizing your day."
Quick Fit: The Complete 15-Minute No-Sweat Workout FROM THE PUBLISHER
Most Americans know they should exercise -- but they don't. The number one reason? Lack of time. Now there's an answer: Quick Fit -- a daily workout that takes just 15 minutes. And it's no sweat, literally! You don't need to change your clothes first, or even shower afterward.
Quick Fit takes no more time than a coffee break, yet it provides a complete workout: Ten minutes of aerobic activity; four minutes of strengthening exercises; one minute of stretches. This program is perfect for anyone with a hectic, demanding schedule. Can 15 minutes really make a difference? Yes, according to mounting research evidence. Quick Fit is safe -- and it's effective.
This book provides everything you need to begin a more active lifestyle:
Fully illustrated step-by-step instructions, with simple self-tests to help you customize Exciting new information about the surprising benefits of brief workouts Innovative suggestions for getting started -- and sticking with it Motivating quotes from men and women who are using Quick Fit successfully
If you wish you were fitter and trimmer, but can't find time to exercise, Quick Fit is for you!
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
The only proven antidote to aging is exercise. But some people are too busy or find it difficult to stay with a program. Rick Bradley's Quick Fit is the answer to their dreams.
Gabe Mirkin
If you do Quick Fit every day, it will shape you from head to toe!
Denise Austin
Quick Fit is a completely realistic approach, designed for absolutely everyone. The program fits into even the busiest day and sets you up for success. If you can't get Rick Bradley to show up at your work or home, this book is the next best thing.
Mark Fenton
This program is easy enough to do even when you're overwhelmed, discouraged, or distracted. It's a simple, stress-free way to be caring to yourself.
Tina Tessina
We have extensive scientific evidence that exercise brings tremendous improvements in health and quality of life. But we know much less about how to get everyone to do it. Quick Fit is exciting because it makes exercise accessible. This program will change people's lives.
Tom Cove