Staying Strong: A Senior's Guide to a More Active and Independent Life.

Staying Strong: A Senior's Guide to a More Active and Independent Life Schleck L, ed. Minneapolis, MN 55454, Fairview Press, 2000, paperback, 249 pp, illus, ISBN: 1-57749-097-5, $14.95.

The purpose of this book is to provide simple, independent home exercise programs for elderly people. The editor and 6 contributors are physical therapists, and they present the material in a concise format. This book is supported by 257 start and finish photographs, large print that is easy to read, concise instructions, a useful table for selecting a strength-training program based on medical condition, and guidelines for increasing the difficulty of the exercises with repetitions and Thera-Bands.

This book is divided into 10 chapters with 8 distinct strength-training programs. The introductory portion focuses on the premise that exercise is a choice. Numerous associations between independence with functional activities and the need to develop and maintain adequate muscle strength are presented. A few brief motivational case studies are also used to illustrate the critical role of exercise in maintaining health and independence. The 8 exercise programs that comprise this book are: general strengthening, osteoporosis prevention, strength training with osteoporosis, balance and strength training, strength training for golfers, strength training in the pool, strength training in a chair, and strength training in bed.

The format for each program includes instructions on the estimated time to complete each session, recommended weekly exercise frequency and rest periods, and essential equipment needed before starting the program. An overview of the purpose of each program, exercise guidelines, and safety reminders precedes each program. Warm-up and cool-down stretching exercises also complement the programs.

Although this book seems to use simplicity as its guide, one of its major drawbacks is the redundant use of exercises. For example, 17 of the 25 exercises in the osteoporosis prevention program are identical to the general strengthening program. This begs the obvious question of how specific each program truly is. In addition, the program for golfers is general at best, and it lacks any sports-specific exercises that could warrant the title "Strength Training for Golfers." This particular program also seems out of context in the table for selecting a program based on medical condition. Finally, the book could advise patients to use exercises that are not appropriate for their condition. For example, a patient with a recent joint replacement is referred to the table for selecting a strength-training program. Of the 8 programs, the general strength training and pool program are listed as appropriate. However, if this patient uses the seated hip flexion exercise with a Thera-Band, as illustrated in the general strengthening program, she would be repeatedly violating her hip precautions.

In essence, brevity and redundancy detract from this book's utility. It remains an elementary guide to strength training and, as a result, would have limited appeal to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. It is well suited for elderly people with little or no experience in strength training who are searching for a simple introduction to regular exercise.

Paul Burke, PT
Bryn Mawr Rehab
Malvern, Pa

Mr Burke is a Clinical Liaison. His clinical interest is in the rehabilitation of spinal disorders. He is currently writing a text on osteoporosis.