A Brighton academic has added his voice to those casting doubt on the claims of the latest diet and fitness guru.
Jo Doust, professor of physiology at Brighton University, dismissed claims that Tracy Anderson’s fitness programme would enable followers to defy genetic and re-engineer their muscular structure.
He was reported as saying that there was nothing new or magical about Tracy Anderson’s exercises.
He said: “She claims you can re-engineer your muscular structure and defy your genetics through her programme but you just can’t do that.
“You can develop your muscles but you can’t defy your genetics.
“Her exercises aren’t special – you could get a similar plan from any trainer in the gym.”
Tracy Anderson’s 30-Day Method has come in for criticism after claims that the weight-loss programme is leaving some women under-nourished and may even put their health at risk.
A Mail on Sunday reporter said that it left her feeling faint and began to investigate the best-selling book and DVD.
She quoted Professor Doust who has published more than 40 academic papers associated with his research, mainly about topics associated with the physiology of sustainable exercise.
Tracy Anderson claims that her method is responsible for Gwyneth Paltrow’s slim figure. She has also worked as a personal trainer or fitness adviser to Madonna, Shakira and Penelope Cruz.
