A Controversial New Fitness Guide For Black Women

New York, NY- October, 12, 2010 - Steve L. Lewis is a former NCAA basketball, track & field, and cross country athlete who has written an eyebrow-raising diet and exercise guide for African American women.  “You’d Better Work It Out Gurl!” is an informative, tough-talking and sometimes comedic self-improvement book that examines the effects of African American culture on lifestyle and exercise choices. 

Lewis holds nothing back in this no-nonsense guide, addressing issues that commonly hold Black women back from the figure and blood pressure of their dreams.  And yes, he even debates one of the most common gym-blockers for black women- their hair.

Lewis has over 20 years of fitness experience and is a certified fitness consultant.  His motivation for writing “You’d Better Work It Out Gurl!” stemmed from the growing rate of obesity and preventable health conditions in the African American Community, especially among Black women.  “I met many women who didn’t understand the importance of exercise.  I want to eliminate silly myths that keep Black women from being their best.”

“You’d Better Work It Out Gurl!” is controversial.  With chapters like, “Back That Thang Up?”, “Young Gifted & Fat!” (A Michelle Obama inspired message to mothers of obese children), and “Have You Lost Your Mind?” Lewis challenges his readers to wake up and smell the, well, protein shakes.

Lewis even challenges the emerging trend of plus sized pride.  He urges women who claim to be comfortable with their plus size physiques to “Tell Whole Story” (also the title of chapter 1).  Lewis insists that while beauty is in the eye of the beholder, the dangers of obesity should not be ignored in light of recent efforts to promote plus-sized beauty.

 “You’d Better Work It Out Gurl!” is a motivational manifesto that challenges destructive lifestyle habits and encourages readers to get healthy. Even a slim woman will walk away from “You’d Better Work It Out Gurl!” with great information for a healthier lifestyle.  One thing is for sure - women of all ages and sizes can appreciate the candor of Lewis’ writing style.  Though Lewis maintains a tough, Chris Rock meets Bill Cosby approach, it’s clear that his message exists to motivate women of color to embrace regular exercise and healthy diets as a way of life.