Customer Reviews

Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is a must have for anyone serious about improving their athletic performance. Filled with no-nonsense information for everything from strength training to aerobic conditioning to nutrition to biomechanics. This book is very technical and the information is very daunting. You must have a background in exercise science or sports medicine to fully comprehend everything. A big drawback to the book is the descriptions of exercise technique. The illustrations are sloppy and there are some outdated exercises featured that could be potentially dangerous to many athletes. This book is only five years old but the exercise science field changes fast and an updated version would probably make this book five stars.

As a Track and field coach with regional responabilities in the United Kingdom I am constantly scouring literature to gain a better understanding of the theories of strength training and conditioning in general. I have found, without doubt, the best single reference for strength training in this book.

The contributors to the book are all clearly not only academicly qualified to speak upon the subject but also have many years of practical experience to add weight to their thoughts. The book covers all aspects of conditioning from physiology through training aspects including weight lifting, spotting techniques, plyometrics, planning and nutrition amongst many others.

My only criticism of the text would be that those not versed in physiology to a quite high level may find the text quite difficult. It is also easier for some concepts to be understood if you have a degree of practical experience. But these are minor complaints.

I would reccomend this book to any coach or strength professional who wishes to increase their knowledge. In fact any athletic professional that wishes to provide the best service to their charges should purchase and read this outstanding text.

The group of contributing authors is extraordinary . You would have to buy at least three or four other books to get all of the same information which most likely is not presented in such a readable and understandable format. It may not be written for beginners, but I believe that most people with the interest in learning can draw as much from this book as an experienced exercise physiologist just looking to review.

I wish I had this book ten years ago; I could have avoided all kinds of painful mistakes and misconceptions in my own training.