Core Performance: The Revolutionary Workout Program to Transform Your Body and Your Life Hardcover – 1 Jan. 2004

All good!!

Used it for 10 years

I am currently doing the 12 week programme that this book recommends. I've had problems with lower back pain and a tendency to pull muscles in my upper back and shoulders when playing squash, tennis, etc. I bought this book on the recommendation of a chap who is into endurance events as a way to build core strength. I must say that so far after a couple of weeks, it is giving me a really effective all over workout.I'm into mountain-biking, walking & racket sports. With this workout, I'm working muscle groups that I don't normally use which is helping me develop this Core Strength. The workout itself is really hard work and needs to be approached with a positive mind as it takes some time initially to learn the new exercises. I disagree with the comment from the other reviewer about it being too complex - the exercises as with all exercise takes a while to get the right form, e.g. if anyone has done squats or lunges, there's a good way and there's a bad way - it's the same with these exercises.The 12 week plan itself takes a bit of understanding but once you start doing it, it makes sense. You can do it in the times that it suggests, 45 mins to 1 hr but you have to work hard to do it which is what the author talks about - really pushing it.So, overall, an excellent book - I've learnt a lot about my body and how it works and can feel the difference. Give it a go if you really want to improve your core fitness, strength & flexibility. The accompanying photos are well-taken and the associated descriptions are relatively easy to follow. It will take time to get used to the exercise but hey, you didn't expect it to be the same as everything else you've done!Finally it's definitely hard work doing it properly and is easiest done in the gym where you have access to a physio ball, cardio machines and weights unless you've got a nice set-up.

A good book that gives some insight into the subject. Need more info and practice to understand it's true worth.

i have found this an excellent text so far, the pictures showing the exercises are clear and easy to follow and the book itself is a good read, combining elements of verstegen's philosophies with his athletes views on these training methods, similar in ways to gray cooks work it provides great insight into the value of core strength and gives the reasons why these types of exercises are great for athletes and those who may not play a sport but want to improve their pillar strength, great book...

The strong positive here is the very balanced approach to fitness. I like also the fact that some explanation is given for the usefulness of each type of exercise.I personally use it as a starting point for a personal exercise program rather than as a very strict regimen. At forty plus I think you have to proceed at your own pace rather than adopting a one size fits all aproach.