The Anatomy of Exercise and Movement for the Study of Dance, Pilates, Sports, and Yoga Paperback – Illustrated, September 6, 2011

I was hesitant to order this book, as it purported to be a handbook suitable for pretty much all types of exercise. How could it be any good, when it tried to be everything? However, after a brief scan, I was relieved to find that the layout and general approach was excellently suitable for all types of exercise, as the book focuses upon specific parts of the body, and does not focus so much upon specifics of exercises. This, coupled with a wry sense of humor:“Since [the Deltoid] is so visible, it is a popular muscle in the weight room.”makes this a rarity…a very readable reference book.This reference work assumes no prior knowledge of the intricacies of bones, muscles and other soft tissues, nor even of common definitions when dealing with the musculo-skeletal system, so opens with definitions and illustrations in order that the following discussions will be understandable. I found the first two chapters to be a useful review of the medical terms used in describing the body and the movements of limbs.My next step was to flip through each of the “Myths” sections of the remaining chapters. Staugaard-Jones obviously has some pet peeves, a few of which are listed in these chapters. However, the tone is not one of exasperation, but rather of concern that her work will be useful and helpful. This tone resonates throughout the book.After that, I reviewed the ‘Shoulders’ and the ‘Hips’ sections, as they are relevant to my body. Hmmm…I believe I’ll modify some of the things I have been doing.I then started over and began to appreciate how the book would be used in classes. I must state up front, that having no medical training, I am not allowed to diagnose. However, I can certainly ask all the questions I need of a student presenting a complaint in order to fully understand the parameters of the complaint. This will include pulling out this book, turning to the relevant section, and discussing the complaint with the student, while we both look at the excellent illustrations.This book will be my short list of books to always have at hand at class.

I'd recommend this book to get a basic understanding of anatomy when it comes Yoga/Pilates/Dance. Bought this as part of my training requirement and found it surprisingly easy to read and dare I say entertaining? The graphics adds an additional dimension to the explanations and at some points the author even had a sense of humor. I was expecting really dry material. It's a nice reference to have for, well, understanding the anatomy of exercise and movement.

Good book, but it may serve someone better who has already had a bit of anatomy under their belts.

In today's world of advanced training ideas such as core training, pilates and yoga, materials on these ideas are either too technical or just "how to" books without explanations of why. The Anatomy of Exercise & Movement blends a strong scientific background and practicality necessary to evaluate movement for fitness professionals, students and coaches, like myself. I now look at an exercise, understand it's purpose and how do do it better. This book has benefit me in terms of my exercise choices as well as professionally in helping my athletes reach there potential.

This book gives a thorough description accompanied by excellent artwork of main moving components of the body. In addition it provides exercises of increasing difficulty.

As a Yoga Instructor and Massage Therapist, I refer to this book often and highly recommend it my students and clients. Jo Ann manages to explain the human body and movement in a clear and interesting manner. Her approach is knowledgeable, compassionate and fun! A "must have" for Yoga teachers, therapists and anyone involved in the field of movements and wellness.

Very informative text and it is written very clearly. I continue to reference. Precise and clear illustrations. It's not often you enjoy reading a textbook, but this one I did.

Looking forward to reading this book.