Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

The Bodywise Woman is more than just another women's health book--it's a complete guide for the active woman. Written from a woman's point of view, the book offers hard-to-find information on women's health specifically as it relates to physical activity. It combines research with women's personal experiences to present practical, scientifically sound advice.

Based on 14 years of studies by the Melpomene Institute, the only research organization in the United States devoted to women's health and physical activity, this second edition offers the same easy-to-read style and understanding tone as the popular first edition, but the content has been revised in light of new research. Some sections have also been expanded, including those on menopause, body shape and weight issues, and physical activity for children. Plus, the book's improved visual presentation makes it even more enjoyable to read and helps to highlight important points.

The Bodywise Woman addresses topics that cover the entire lifespan. Each chapter brings its subject matter to life with a profile of a real person facing an issue discussed in that chapter. The book first examines how society's view of active women has changed over the years. Next, it provides answers to questions such as:

-Why do women consistently choose ideal body shapes that are 20 percent underweight?

-Will physical activity alleviate menstrual cramps?

-What are the real reasons behind menstrual dysfunction?

-Does exercise put pregnant women at risk?

-What is the most important positive influence on your child's desire to be physically active?

-What changes can you expect as you age?
You'll also learn how to choose and start an exercise program you'll enjoy, stay motivated to stick with it, and avoid injury. Specific guidelines are offered for eight favorite activities, including walking, water exercise, and weightlifting.

Whether you are already enjoying the benefits of physical activity or are just considering becoming more active, The Bodywise Woman is the perfect guide to help you deepen your commitment and make informed choices about your health and lifestyle.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Chapter 1 How Far We've Come: A Historical Look at Women and Exercise
• Chapter 2 What Do You See in Your Mirror?
• Chapter 3 How to Get Moving!
• Chapter 4 Menstrual Fact and Fiction
• Chapter 5 Keeping Active During Pregnancy
• Chapter 6 Your Child's Fitness
• Chapter 7 Age and the Active Woman

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Judy Mahle Lutter is the cofounder and president of the Melpomene Institute for Women's Health Research, America's only organization devoted to health issues affecting physically active women. Judy began running in 1973 at the age of 33. Five years later, she recorded her personal best time of 2:56 at the Boston Marathon and became known around town as an expert on women and running. Recognizing the shortage of research on physical activity and women's health, she began conducting her own studies and in 1982, she and her friend, Susan Cushman, formed the Melpomene Institute to help women make informed choices about their own health and lifestyles.

A popular speaker on the topic of physical activity and health for women, Judy is on the advisory board of the Women's Sports Foundation. She has won numerous awards in the health and fitness arena and has been a guest columnist for several fitness publications, including Women's Sports and Fitness, Runner's World, and FootNotes . She also writes a weekly column for the St. Paul Pioneer Press . She holds master's degrees in American studies and educational psychology from the University of Minnesota. A competitive distance runner, cyclist, and cross-country skiier, Judy is a mother of three. She and her husband, Hap, live in St. Paul, Minnesota.

As Melpomene Institute's program coordinator, Lynn Jaffee is responsible for organizing and implementing research projects and educational programs. Some of her research projects involve physical activity and body image in adolescent girls, physical activity and women recovering from chemical dependency, health and physical activity patterns of larger women, and athletic amenorrhea/menstrual cycle and physical activity.

Lynn speaks to groups around the country on many of the topics she researches and writes numerous articles for the Melpomene Journal and other publications. She holds a bachelor's degree in health and human services from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul, Minnesota, as well as a certificate in health and lifestyle counseling from The College of St. Catherine in Minneapolis. Lynn's hobbies include running, cycling, backpacking, and bird watching. She and her husband, Steven, have two children and live in Hopkins, Minnesota.