underpins the practice of sports nutrition; these
chapters provide definitive information in the
form of comprehensive reviews of specific topics.
In the second section, a variety of special situa-
tions are considered: this begins the move from
the underlying science to practical application by
bringing together information from different
sources to focus on specific issues that affect per-
formance. The second section of the book deals
with the nutritional needs of special populations
and the strategies that must be developed to
meet those needs. The third section focuses
on some of the practical issues encountered in
working with élite-level athletes. The final
section of the book provides a detailed coverage
of the specific issues relating to preparing for,
and competing in, a wide range of different
sports: this section highlights the diversity of
sport and reminds the reader that the generali-
zations that are inevitably made in the pre-
ceding sections must be applied with caution
when dealing with individuals competing in
sports that place very different demands on
participants.
The sheer size of this book reflects the breadth
and depth of the field of sports nutrition. It is a
testimony to the expertise of the authors that the
information this volume contains is presented
in a way that will be useful to those engaged in
research and teaching as well as being accessible
to those who can benefit most from its practical
application. These include exercise scientists and
sports physicians, nutritionists and dietitians.
Some background knowledge is necessary
for a full appreciation of the contents, but the
informed and educated coach and athlete should
find much of interest.Ron Maughan
1999