I have a hard time understanding how some people are willing to fork out tons of money for various things in their lives but can't find the money to invest in themselves and their own health. Parents pay tons of money to have their kids in sports. Big bucks are forked out for activities, youth training and even private personal training for their kids. The money is there when it involves their children and teaching them to be active and athletic individuals but when it comes to themselves the wallet is empty.
In the Skahan house, we are beginning to understand this a bit more having a child who is involved in various activities. Swim lessons, hockey, little league, soccer... it is not cheap. I hear what travel club sports will cost when our son gets older and I cringe at the figure. I can somewhat understand that parents can only do so much when it comes to budgeting a household. But your health, how can you put a price tag on that?! I take pride knowing my son sees me working out and knows mom and dad are active and fit people. He is learning a key lesson, hard work pays off, from the biggest role models in his life, his parents.
What can you do if you can't afford a trainer to get you in shape? There are quite a few books on the shelves that are written by well known professionals that have proven their methods work. Here are a list of a few that I have personally tried, read or learned from.
1. The Female Body Breakthrough by Rachel Cosgrove
This is an excellent book with a great training program. I can personally attest to this. I hired Rachel to train me for 2 of my figure competitions in 2008. She took me from a fit female to an incredibly fit one! This training program will get you results, guaranteed. Enough said.
2. The New Rules of Lifting for Women: Lift Like a Man, Look Like a Goddess by Lou Schuler, Cassandra Forsythe and Alwyn Cosgrove
This book came out a few years ago but I would still recommend it. I think Sean gave it to me for Christmas one year and I plowed right through it. It will change the way you look at your workouts. I can remember back in the day when I always thought the free weights was where the men belonged... wrong! Don't be intimidated by the benches, squat racks, chin up bars, and dumbbells. Often women flock to the machines because they have pictures and descriptions as to what to do at each machine. This book and it's program will help you navigate through the gym and give you a great workout.
3. Cardio Strength Training: Torch Fat, Build Muscle, and Get Stronger Faster by Robert dos Remedios MA CSCS
Sean introduced me to this book last year and I have referred to it time and time again. I have recommended to many people who are looking for a workout that is fast and effective. They don't have a lot of time to dedicate to working out but want the most bang for their buck. This book delivers that. Cardio Strength Training has given me numerous ideas for my boot camp workouts as well as setting up my own training programs. It is a great book for men and women.
4. The New Rules of Lifting for Abs by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove
I have yet to implement this book in my training but I am sure it is top notch. I will definitely use this book in my quest to gain my tight flat stomach again after this baby enters the world. Another great book to have in your fitness library!
Four great books that all cost under $30 and won't break your budget. So, if your stuck floundering in the gym and don't know what to do, take one of these with you and take your physique to the next level.
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