Core Workouts

Gr 9 Up—Each title introduces readers to various styles of exercise and their benefits, providing historical and scientific background as well as practical exercise routines. The photos show relatable teens, and though the graphics are dated, they're understated and don't interfere with the texts. Luckily, the overly chummy tone in the introductions (Core Workouts cheerfully states, "We've got your back!") disappears later on, and a more academic style of writing takes over. Explanations of how physical activity strengthens muscle groups and mental functioning will provide subtle motivation, and "Text Dependent Questions" will assist with closer reading and research activity. The physiological information is detailed enough for a college course in exercise science. Each book touches on safety and common injuries. Despite a few missteps, this excellent series demonstrates how a physical education class can be interdisciplinary and academically rigorous.