Super Body, Super Brain: The Workout That Does It All    by Michael Gonzalez-Wallace Order:  USA  Can HarperCollins, 2010 (2010) Hardcover, e-Book Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Hilary Williamson In his Foreword to this new book by personal trainer and fitness expert Michael Gonzalez-Wallace, neurobiologist John H. Martin tells us that 'Super Body, Super Brain adds up to an excellent cognitive workout masquerading as a smart, efficient way to condition your body.' In the Introduction, the author promises 'exercises demanding balance, coordination, and concentration for a superior brain workout, combined with aerobic, strength-training moves that rev up your metabolism and make your muscles lean and strong.' Having trained in martial arts for the last decade, this makes a great deal of sense to me. Part 1 of the book (the first third) explains The Basics Behind the Brain-Muscle Connection, including how 'learning new motor-coordination patterns' can 'create new synapses and strengthen existing neural connections'; the impact of regular exercise on mood and health; and correct technique in exercises and meditation. Part 2 covers the exercises themselves, in 5+ levels. A personal Fitness Quiz tells you what hand weights (if any) to use; the only other equipment needed is an exercise mat or carpet, a timer, and shoes. Gonzalez-Wallace recommends doing ten-minute routines three times a day, six days a week. Exercises are explained clearly, with photographs showing stages of movement. Further chapters address a Brain/Wallking Circuit, as well as the benefits of this kind of training (with physical and mental stimulation) for children - there's also an exercise circuit for parents and kids to do together. A final chapter talks about diet, and includes healthy yet enticing recipes (the Green Tea-Blueberry Smoothie and Spice-Rubbed Tuna appeal to me!) If any of your New Year resolutions related to improving health, and focus - or these are ongoing goals for you - and you are motivated to follow through on a personal fitness program, then I recommend Super Body, Super Brain as an excellent resource for the entire family. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews