“Biomechanics of Your Body” by Tracy L. Markley

Biomechanics of Your Body

Tracy L Markley, CPT
Independently Published (2022)
ISBN: 9798820272578
Reviewed by Rachel Dehning for Reader Views (12/22)

The human body is a complex structure that can take years for doctors and professionals in various positions to thoroughly learn about when studying in school and in the field, and even then problems arise continuously within the inner workings of our bodies, and doctors and professionals are at a loss. Being complex, we as a society are living in a good time period when much research has already been and is continuing to be done, resulting in knowledge of our bodies being available to the public to serve as both proactive advice and in-the-moment help. For many readers, it is safe to say that their knowledge of the human body will have come from some form of a science class, with some readers having more advanced knowledge from courses such as anatomy and physiology and others needed for careers such as physical therapists, medical doctors, fitness instructors, etc.

Tracy L. Markley has written and received awards for many books of her books centering on health and the human body; much of her background and education revolves around fitness education with a mile-long resume to serve as her credentials. With a clear passion for the field of physical fitness, “Biomechanics of Your Body: A Simplified Way to Learn Human Movement and Muscles” reads similar to a textbook (but much more interesting!), with the facts, science, and helpful diagrams displayed alongside advice and suggestions given by the author to ensure proper form and safety are followed, to prevent harm to the individual. The information covers nearly every part of the inner workings of the human body, mainly separated into two main categories of skeletal bones and muscles, but branching into specific areas, such as where the muscles are located (i.e., abdominal, upper body, spine, back, hips, legs, etc.).

So the reader isn’t left in the dark, confused, and wondering what various terms mean, helpful definitions are provided that cover slightly more than two pages. Following the definitions are some movement illustrations with detailed instructions on how to perform the movement and the muscles that are activated while doing each one to learn their importance and relevance to either your specific and targeted health goals or your goals overall for general physical health (that *bonus* can improve mental and emotional health as well!).

Regardless of your fitness level or desire to exercise, being knowledgeable in the vessel and its companions that work daily to keep you living is something worth knowing about; and if you happen to find something interesting, have an area of the body that could use some strengthening or special attention, or have the slightest curiosity in trying out any of the exercises or movements listed in the book, by all means, consider it! (*disclaimer – regular checkups with your primary care doctor are also beneficial and encouraged to learn if there might be anything holding you back from exercising or if modifications to the movements are needed). A companion piece to “Biomechanics”, also written by Markley, is “Your Brain: The Engine to Your Body, a Fitness Trainer’s Guide to Brain Health,” followed by a kids’ version that presents information in an appropriate way, which is “Your Brain: The Engine to Your Body.” Her other works center around stroke recovery, the spine, and balance.  Highly recommended reading.