Author: Carla McMillian

Publisher: Fair Winds Press, 2005

ISBN: 1-59233-057-6

The following review was contributed by Rev. Marie Davies

Former Marine Captain and fitness expert, Carla McMillian gives it to us straight; the only thing needed to have the flat abs is the will to exercise, determination and patience.  Boot Camp Abs presents a refreshingly candid approach to fitness. Carla McMillian tells her readers exercise is the only way to tighten your stomach muscles and cutting calories is the only way to lose weight.

McMillian offers readers the tools to set and accomplish reasonable fitness goals.  A detailed self-evaluation and criteria for determining your fitness level is included. Fitness levels are classified as marksman, sharpshooter or expert. The thorough descriptions of the exercises help maintain proper form.

I tried the exercises (for beginners) and found them challenging but achievable even for a novice. The simplest way to tighten your abs, she points out, is by contracting your stomach muscles during normal activities. The nutritional information stresses balance while shunning dietary supplements and weight loss plans promising unreasonable results. I found the charts in the ‘Recruit Field Journal’ simple use and understand. The Daily Nutrition Log is particularly useful.

Carla McMillian delivers a nutrition and exercise plan broken down to simple understandable components. Her use of military language reflects her no-nonsense approach to fitness. This book will appeal to readers who are serious about improving their fitness level whether they are novices or experienced.