Take Charge

Clarence “Ripped” Bass’ new book, Take Charge—Fitness at the Edge of Science, is mostly a collection and analysis of recent exercise and diet studies that affect disease prevention and aging. Bass takes the studies and synthesizes the findings so they can be applied to a longevity lifestyle.

Bass has been at this weight-training-and-fitness-lifestyle thing for many decades. At 75 he has the physique of a 45-year-old—with muscle, including abs. He’s a living, breathing testimonial to sensible lifting, cardio work and healthful eating on par with Jack LaLanne, and he’s a smart guy—an attorney by trade.

I read this book from cover to cover and was most enthralled by the studies on lighter-weight training and muscle growth as well as the best sensible eating plan backed by science. Bass also discusses cardio training, such as intervals vs. steady state and how walking fits into the mix.

The chapters include “Forget Heavy, Think Effort,” “The Rise of Intervals,” “Exercise and the Brain,” “Exercise and Aging,” “Too Much Sitting,” “Healthy Eating,” “Dieting Dynamics” and “Take Charge People.” The last chapter is how Bass applies these findings to his daily regimen. Interesting stuff!

If you’re over 40 and want to know the best track to take for aging gracefully, maintaining your health, independence, mobility and muscle for the rest of your life, this book is a must-read. I’m already diving in a second time.

—Steve Holman
www.OldSchoolNewBody.com