The Healthy Skeptic Book Review: The No Sweat Exercise Plan by Harvey B. Simon, M.D.

The No Sweat Exercise Plan by Harvey B. Simon, M. D. -– an Associate Professor of Medicine at the Harvard Medical School –- is the best book that I have read on the subject of health and fitness for the masses.

When I review a book that I like and recommend to people –- as opposed to a book I hate — I try not to reveal too much about its contents. If me and my big mouth tell you all of the good things that are contained in Dr. Simon’s book you might have less of a reason to spend your money on this excellent book, and take money out of the good doctor’s pocket as a result. Not only does Doc Simon deserve praise for his book, he’s entitled to make some dough as well.

First I want to address the minor criticisms that I have with this book so I can spend the rest of my time –- and yours –- praising the work of Dr. Simon and his colleagues at the Harvard Medical School.

The biggest problem with The No Sweat Exercise Plan has nothing to do with anything that is contained inside the book, but is with the title itself. I don’t like it. I think the materials that make up this book deserve a much better title. Can’t these eggheads at Harvard come up with something a little better than this? What is that you say? Why don’t I come up with a better title? Well I didn’t go to Harvard. I’m being a smart ass, but I am serious about not liking the title.

This great book warrants a better title, a more descriptive and less gimmicky sounding title. Dr. Simon’s position –- which is backed up by oodles and oodles of scientific research –- is that low intensity exercise is actually more beneficial to most people than high intensity exercise. I agree with Dr. Simon’s position that doing chores around the house, walking during a round of golf, walking up stairs and taking small walks throughout the day are all forms of “non-gym based exercise” that can make you healthier and happier … but they will make you sweat as will most forms of activity done at the proper level. You get the idea. And once you read the book –- which you should -– you’ll understand what I’m saying. But again, this is a minor quibble.

Article Author: Sal Marinello

Sal Marinello is a National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Certified Personal Trainer, a U.S.A. Weightlifting Certified Coach, a full-time, private Professional Strength and Conditioning …

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