I would like to get a good fitness book (or books?) for my wife as a Christmas gift (I know, not very romantic). She's quite fit, but continues to be significantly overweight - a member of the "fit but fat" population. From what I've been reading lately, though, the "fit" part may be misleading. I really admire the fact that she's working harder and harder and want to encourage her. She's joined a club and works out regularly, but still needs to lose a lot of weight. Help me help her help herself.

Characteristics that I'm looking for include:

• Oriented toward women, preferably written by a woman.
• Inspirational, preferably written by someone who's been in the same position.
• Interesting enough to re-read.
• Not technical or not too much emphasis on the science, but gives reasons why to follow an exercise program and/or eating program.
• Integrates exercise and diet into a fit lifestyle.
• Contains a guideline for a program to follow, but not too specific. Specific programs lead to discouragement when you can't keep up with them.
• Stays away from specifying a particular diet, but has suggestions on how to move toward more healthful and thoughtful eating habits.

I read "Younger Next Year" this summer and found it a great introduction to better fitness, diet and health. My wife partially read "Younger Next Year for Women", but really would have preferred something with a stronger female orientation. In other words, she really didn't like the style much.

Please give me any suggestions of what you've read that might be a good match.

TIA,
Tony

Some need more than just a book with solid facts and ideas. They need guidance like a personal trainer. Are you willing to ante up for that?

SPARK.....Rohn J Ratey

John Maxwell

the difference maker.

Bike for Life: How to Ride to 100 by Roy M. Wallack and Bill Katovsky