James M. Rippe, M.D., is a best-selling author, world-renowned cardiologist, and founder of the Rippe Lifestyle Institute. Known as the father of the modern American walking movement, Dr. Rippe's research organization has published hundreds of studies that form the scientific basis for high-performance health. The author of 41 books, including 18 consumer health titles and 23 medical texts, Dr. Rippe continues writing, teaching, and developing fitness programs for corporations and professional athletes, and he edits the only comprehensive textbook and journal in lifestyle medicine. He is married to former television news anchor Stephanie Hart, and together they have four children.