The Mind-Body Makeover Project : A 12-Week Plan for Transforming Your Body and Your Life

Nutrition and exercise are only two pieces of the puzzle of how to get fit and lose weight, writes Michael Gerrish. The other "UFOs" ("unidentified fitness obstacles") are barriers to getting fit. These might involve sleep, work addiction, food allergies, or a number of medical or emotional conditions or lifestyle issues.

Gerrish, an exercise physiologist, personal trainer, and psychotherapist, gives a self-test to see which of the 58 UFOs are yours and describes how you can conquer each one. He includes exercise information, with descriptions and illustrations of recommended strength training and stretching exercises, and a general diet plan. He also describes energy block acutherapy, a self-help breathing and tapping sequence to treat fears, addictions, cravings, self-sabotage, and post-traumatic stress.

More than one-third of the book is devoted to "The Makeovers"--stories of real people who "stumbled, fell down, and got up many times, transforming themselves as a result." We get to know these people through their journal entries, photos, and communications with Gerrish as they progress through their 12-week program.

Gerrish is married to personal coach Cheryl Richardson, author of Take Time for Your Life and Life Makeovers. The Mind-Body Makeover Project is recommended for people who struggle with weight loss and are ready to look at the bigger picture. --Joan Price