I am a housewife with little chance of making it to the gym (we share one vehicle and my husband commutes)- this book has been such a treasure. It has a great muscle chart and easy directions with bold, clear illustrations of each exercise. Extra equipment is kept at the bare minimum- they use only dumbbells and a simple bench- you could adjust this around a chair if you don't want to go garage saling for a used exercise bench (this is what I am going to do- you can get them for $20-50 sometimes used!). The bench is not used but for a few of the exercises, so you can just use the stand alones! This is simply the best purchase I have made this year in regards to learning a new way to fitness. Comment

For the person who wants to get back into shape and has neither the time, budget, nor inclination to go to the local gym, but wants to do something at home, this book cannot be too strongly recommended. It is especially suited for novices and is full of excellent information and suggestions. I tried the author's advice to start with 2 1/2 pound weights in each hand and am now up to 10 pounds each after about 5 weeks. I have had no injuries, excessive soreness or fatigue or any other problems. His recommendations on duration, pacing, lifting techniques, frequency and intensity are very sensible. If you follow his program, you have a very good chance of excellent results. He rightly points out that any exercise program should have the prior input of a physician.