Gymnastics Snowboarding Basketball

Gr 5 Up—According to the foreword in each book, this series explores the scientific principles such as momentum, gravity, friction, and aerodynamics, plus many more, behind some of the most popular team and individual sports. But first the authors discuss their origins, history, and changes. Then they move on to the biomechanics and physiology of playing, related health and medical concerns, and the causes and treatment of sports-related injuries. Additional information tells how exercise, diet and nutrition, warming up, and training relate to peak performance and enjoyment of the sport. Current topics like doping and cheating are covered. One of the most interesting chapters in Gymnastics is "The Psychology of Gymnastics," which discusses fears, force of will, honing the competitive edge, and the pressure to succeed--sort of an inside look at the sport. The "Aerial Moves" chapter in Snowboarding will help readers understand how athletes can learn the dangerous moves without injury. Basketball has features on possible side effects of anabolic steroid use; how MRIs work; and how various improvements to the courts, basketballs, shoes, and uniforms have affected the game. The action photography in these three titles-especially Snowboarding-is fantastic. The lone criticism might be that there should be more of it. These volumes are jam-packed full of information. Must-haves for sports fans, athletes, science students, and even anyone considering a career in sports-related medicine, coaching, or other connected fields.—Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI