Buff Brides: The Complete Guide to Getting in Shape and Looking Great for Your Wedding Day

Whether you want toned arms for your sleeveless gown or flat abs for your honeymoon bikini, certified trainer Sue Fleming can help you get in better shape for your wedding, even if you have only six months. This slim (106-page) book presents a six-month strength-training daily workout guide with cardio recommendations and a "crash program" if there’s only 12 weeks before the wedding. The strength-training exercises are basic, beginning workouts using dumbbells, stability ball, step, and ankle weights, all clearly explained and illustrated.

The cardio recommendations are very general--for instance, 75 minutes per week for weeks five and six, doing one or two activities that raise your heart rate for most of your workout, which should last at least 25 minutes. Sadly, Fleming runs through just a few ways (walking, running, and biking) to get aerobic exercise, but doesn't explore the huge array of cardio options or give much detail on this essential fitness component. Recommended for beginning exercisers who are committed to following a regular program and need specific strength-training exercises. --Joan Price