cover image Body By Simone: The 8-Week Total Body Makeover Plan

Body By Simone: The 8-Week Total Body Makeover Plan

Simone de la Rue, with Lara McGlashan. HarperWave, $25.99 (272p) ISBN 978-0-06-226935-5

Former professional dancer and trainer to the stars de la Rue presents the regimen that has shaped the bodies of Anne Hathaway, Naomi Watts, and others. Drawing from movements in dance, the Body By Simone (BBS) program is for all ages and abilities and combines a sustainable exercise schedule with healthy guidelines for fueling one’s body (including a 2-week cleanse developed with holistic practitioner Dr. Frank Lipman). The 8-week plan is broken down into three levels, depending on ability: Corps de Ballet, Soloist, and Principal. Movement between levels is encouraged, especially if the workouts become routine. The plan utilizes daily cardio and strength exercises, with the author providing a week-by-week schedule for all levels. De la Rue demonstrates exercises in clear photos, with easy-to-follow directions for exercises and poses such as “Better Bun Lift” and “Riverdance.” The author includes modifications throughout for expectant mothers, as well as music playlists. In the second half, she offers guidelines for healthy eating that don’t depend on counting calories; her plan favors small portions, low-sodium, protein (chicken, fish, tofu), and superfoods (kale, blueberries, walnuts). The recipes are mouth-watering, and De la Rue’s encouragement and warmth will appeal to novices and workout-veterans alike. Agent: Pilar Queen, McCormick & Williams. (Mar.)