Book excerpt: The Fitness Instructor's Handbook, 4th edition, is the ultimate resource for anyone working in, or wishing to enter, the fitness industry. Packed full of illustrations, exercise photos, case studies, revision questions and sample programmes – this guide covers every aspect of the theory needed to work as a fitness instructor. Clear, concise and accessible, the content is organised with the specific needs of the fitness professional in mind and covers topics such as: – The skeletal system – Muscles and tendons – The energy system – Circulation and respiration – Components of fitness – Safety issues – Customer service – Screening clients – Planning and programme design – Exercise evaluation This new edition includes advice on how to avoid poor exercise technique that can increase the risk of injury. There is also a brand new section on field protocols for typical health and fitness tests, with guidance on how instructors can standardise them. Other essential updates are also included that reflect changes to the National Occupational Standards for both Level 2 and 3 qualifications. Offering the perfect blend of theory and practice for every aspect of health and fitness, this is the resource you will refer to time and again.