Kathy Smith's Lift Weights to Lose Weight

Smith believes in the power of consistent, progressive exercise with free weights and weight-lifting machines to counteract the muscle loss and slower metabolism that naturally come with age and typically cause the pounds to pile on. Her 12-week "mini commitment" eases newcomers into a comprehensive program of weight lifting and sensible eating, and includes weekly checklists for tracking workouts and meals. Large photos accompany clearly written descriptions of more than 60 stretches and exercises, nicely organized by muscle group (chest, back, abdominals, and so on). Just pick a gym or a room at home, and Smith will provide the routine. Advocates of her popular fitness videos (more than two dozen to date) will appreciate Smith's natural warmth, encouragement, and intelligence throughout this motivational book. --Liane Thomas

Product Description
After some 20 years as a highly respected aerobic fitness instructor and health promoter--one who rarely uses the phrase "lose weight"--Kathy Smith is shifting her priorities. "I would never want to choose, but if I could only do one form of training from now on, I'd give up cardio and focus on weight training." A strong statement, indeed! The title of this, her fourth book, suggests Smith's goal is to help exercisers lose weight. But as readers work through the engrossing chapters on physiology, exercise basics, and making the shift from aerobics to weight lifting, Smith says they'll note that weight loss is simply a pleasant by-product of the true benefits generated by this straightforward, nonthreatening weight-lifting program. Smith believes in the power of consistent, progressive exercise with free weights and weight-lifting machines to counteract the muscle loss and slower metabolism that naturally come with age and typically cause the pounds to pile on. Her 12-week "mini commitment" eases newcomers into a comprehensive program of weight lifting and sensible eating, and includes weekly checklists for tracking workouts and meals. Large photos accompany clearly written descriptions of more than 60 stretches and exercises, nicely organized by muscle group (chest, back, abdominals, and so on). Just pick a gym or a room at home, and Smith will provide the routine. Advocates of her popular fitness videos (more than two dozen to date) will appreciate Smith's natural warmth, encouragement, and intelligence throughout this motivational book. --Liane Thomas

A great book for beginners or people who want a FRESH START
Also a very reasonably priced book.


Strength training is no longer a mystery   September 28, 2003
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

Prior to reading this book, I only used weights if they were part of an aerobics class. Now I have the confidence to walk into a weight room at a gym! Kathy teaches readers how to use weights both at home and in the gym setting. The how-to photos are very helpful. I also enjoyed the chapter on diet and was impressed by the fact that Kathy consulted with a Registered Dietitian for guidance on the nutrition chapter. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning how to incorporate strength training into their fitness routine.


Kathy is one of the best!   January 19, 2003
 4 out of 5 found this review helpful

I've been lifting weights for a little over a year, so have already experienced many of the benefits Kathy mentions in her book. I've lost 40 pounds and about 18% body fat by following a good diet and weight training at progressively heavier weight and added sets. Even though I am not brand new to weight training, I still found the book helpful. There is an anatomy chart, and Kathy dispels many myths about weight lifting, in particular that women shouldn't lift heavy or that they will get big and bulky from lifting. Also, there were a couple of exercises that I was not doing, so I was able to modify my current program a bit.

I tried using a trainer, but frankly have been disappointed, so I am now learning all I can on my own. Lift Weights to Lose Weight will be a book that I use. I like it much better than the accompanying video tape, which I have used briefly; it is not a very comprehensive workout.

I recommend this book to beginners and intermediates, and anyone who wants to learn more about the basic principles of weight lifting.


Kathy is one of the best!   January 19, 2003
 7 out of 7 found this review helpful

I've been lifting weights for a little over a year, so have already experienced many of the benefits Kathy mentions in her book. I've lost 40 pounds and about 18% body fat by following a good diet and weight training at progressively heavier weight and added sets. Even though I am not brand new to weight training, I still found the book helpful. There is an anatomy chart, and Kathy dispels many myths about weight lifting, in particular that women shouldn't lift heavy or that they will get big and bulky from lifting. Also, there were a couple of exercises that I was not doing, so I was able to modify my current program a bit.

I tried using a trainer, but frankly have been disappointed, so I am now learning all I can on my own. Lift Weights to Lose Weight will be a book that I use. I like it much better than the accompanying video tape, which I have used briefly; it is not a very comprehensive workout.

I recommend this book to beginners and intermediates, and anyone who wants to learn more about the basic principles of weight lifting.