I picked up a book today at my library, "Escape Your Shape" by Edward J. Jackowski, Ph.D. His philosophy is that because all bodies are various shapes, all bodies need a specific/type of workout according to that shape.
I've only read the first 4 pages, and I already have an opinion (probably not the best way to start a book!). I have two questions for you before I continue:
1) Our bodies may be genetically inclined to store fat in certain areas, but are our bodies also genetically inclined to build muscle faster/better in certain areas as well?
2) Say there's a woman who is clearly heavier in her lower body than mid or upper body; do you keep her from strength training her lower body so she doesn't build up more muscle, making her lower body even bigger? (*Now, I know she's not going to bulk up like a body builder by doing 3 sets of squats 2-3 times/week, and I'm totally aware that more muscle = more calories burned. I'm curious as to what you all and Dr. Jackowski have to say about it.)
Please let me know your thoughts/answers to these questions! I'll post a summary of the book when I'm finished reading it.
July 23, 2008
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6 comments:
I do think it's about genetics to a certain degree when it comes to where we build muscles - I know it's much easier for me to build muscles in my legs, and I totally have my dad's legs.
Sounds like an interesting book - looking forward to the review.
Such thought-provoking questions! I can't wait to hear your review on this book.
@ fatfighter:
I have the same "problem" with my legs. I had huge thighs in high school when I was playing soccer...then I stopped but kept exercising them (they're still a little bigger than the rest of my body, but I wonder if I'm the only one who notices)...
@ sagan:
The review will be coming! It's an interesting book thus far; I couldn't put it down last night, and it's a pretty easy read.
1) I'm not sure on the science here, but I would think so. Either from genetics or how my muscles developed as a child (slow-twitch vs. fast-twitch fibers), I know that my shoulders are always going to be really strong and my hammies are going to take more work. Again, I'm sure someone with a scientific background can give you a better answer, but there's my two cents. :)
2) I'm all about evenly training your body as much as possible, so really you should work every major muscle group when you lift. Unless you're a world class cyclist and start squatting 400 pounds regularly, you probably won't bulk up.
Sounds like another crackpot theory to me.
Looking forward to the review.
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