In this age of trendy diets and looming obesity statistics, this book couldn't be more useful. Fitness researcher, educator, and author Sharkey (health & human performance, emeritus, Univ. of Montana), who first published this renowned guide in 1974, here teams up with Olympic coach Gaskill (health & human performance, Univ. of Montana) for the sixth edition. Known as the "thinking person's fitness book," this work discusses not only how to eat and exercise well but also why one should adopt such a lifestyle. The authors maintain a focus on the emotional as well as physical benefits of exercise and support their recommendations with relevant research studies and statistics. The book's scholarly nature makes it a staple in many college health courses, but in this particular edition, which encourages engaging in "the active life" rather than just focusing on performance, Sharkey and Gaskill also draw in the average reader by including straightforward sample fitness programs, training tips, activities, and basic injury care. Their relaxed tone and dispersed inspirational quotes from such luminaries as Chinese Taoist philosopher Lao Tzu and science fiction/fantasy author Ursula K. Le Guin also engage readers. Essential for academic and larger public libraries. Jennifer Johnston, formerly with San Bernardino P.L., CA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.