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Max Capacity Training: How Unconventional Workouts Can Turn Minutes Into Muscles
Max Capacity Training will teach you how to get the most out of your workouts. You’ll be introduced to a complete plan based on 3 innovative time delimited protocols. In an hour a week, you will sculpt your body with 48 strength building bodyweight exercises. You will discover the 5 principles of eating right and how to apply them in real life. In this book, you’ll also learn out how to:
• Cut training time by 80%
• As much as double your endurance
• Burn 9 times more fat than with conventional training
• Boost power by 17% and anaerobic capacity by 28%
• Ditch the gym and work out anywhere for free
• Use new tools to help you achieve your goals You'll never do the same workout twice.
After reading this book, you'll know exactly what to do to get to where you want to be.
• Cut training time by 80%
• As much as double your endurance
• Burn 9 times more fat than with conventional training
• Boost power by 17% and anaerobic capacity by 28%
• Ditch the gym and work out anywhere for free
• Use new tools to help you achieve your goals You'll never do the same workout twice.
After reading this book, you'll know exactly what to do to get to where you want to be.
- GenresHealthNonfictionFitness
164 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
23 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 7, 2011
This is a very quick read that covers basic good nutrition, identifies barriers to change, and promotes a calisthenics-based workout.
What I like: the nutrition advice is overall sound; the author recommends consuming a balanced diet with plenty of protein, moderate carbs and fat. It sounds close to The Zone diet. Fresh, healthy foods are emphasized and the author to his credit does not recommend supplements unless someone absolutely can not meet their requirements by following a healthy diet.
What I didn't like so much: I think that this book is geared for men, and younger ones at that. I am a middle aged female, so I am particularly sensitive to this. The purpose of the exercises are to create muscle fatigue, not necessarily to build big muscles. Some of the exercises are much more difficult for most women (such as various push-ups, hand stand push ups!) and others are quite advanced (such as wall hand walkouts, where you end up in a hand stand). The illustrations are hand drawn men. I wish they would have emphasized alternate positions for the less fit.
I must confess I haven't tried any of the workouts- yet! I will update this review after trying it.
I do wonder how the author came up with the plan, especially as he has no training in either fitness or nutrition. I would have liked to see a picture of this person, to see for myself the results of the program.
What I like: the nutrition advice is overall sound; the author recommends consuming a balanced diet with plenty of protein, moderate carbs and fat. It sounds close to The Zone diet. Fresh, healthy foods are emphasized and the author to his credit does not recommend supplements unless someone absolutely can not meet their requirements by following a healthy diet.
What I didn't like so much: I think that this book is geared for men, and younger ones at that. I am a middle aged female, so I am particularly sensitive to this. The purpose of the exercises are to create muscle fatigue, not necessarily to build big muscles. Some of the exercises are much more difficult for most women (such as various push-ups, hand stand push ups!) and others are quite advanced (such as wall hand walkouts, where you end up in a hand stand). The illustrations are hand drawn men. I wish they would have emphasized alternate positions for the less fit.
I must confess I haven't tried any of the workouts- yet! I will update this review after trying it.
I do wonder how the author came up with the plan, especially as he has no training in either fitness or nutrition. I would have liked to see a picture of this person, to see for myself the results of the program.
July 5, 2011
A very effective and timely exercise program for beginners and intermediates who want to get into shape, tone, or lose some weight. The brief and effective program uses only body weight to achieve the desired results. Peyret cuts through the scientific jargon and explains why exercise works and why this program works, using scientific studies as support for his program. He admits that if you have other goals, this is a starting ground of an easy 20 minutes 3 times a week. It is a very good program, I would recommend it to anyone. This book reaffirms the reality and effects of exercise and disposes of the magic in other programs that never seems to come true.
May 18, 2011
Very quick, easy read. I read it one night, and I felt like I already knew everything in there regarding eating right. However, the 48 strength building bodyweight exercises were very interesting and I'm willing to give them a try. I gave the book 3 stars since it didn't seem to be nothing new but if the exercises in the book seem to be making a difference, I'll up my rating after a month!
November 8, 2020
The exercises are well planned out, and by the end they get very difficult. Though one progresses through the previous months, I doubt performing a handstand push-up is realistic for one that’s has never done it.
Also, the dietary advices are great! Except the all controversial protein intake. I am skeptical to the idea of eating 176g of protein everyday. It’s not only unpractical, but unrealistic. Thus, I take it with a pinch of salt, but the rest of the book is excellent.
I’ve trained often for the last couple of years, started Olympic lifting, and and still I find myself panting after every workout.
That’s all I wanted!
Also, the dietary advices are great! Except the all controversial protein intake. I am skeptical to the idea of eating 176g of protein everyday. It’s not only unpractical, but unrealistic. Thus, I take it with a pinch of salt, but the rest of the book is excellent.
I’ve trained often for the last couple of years, started Olympic lifting, and and still I find myself panting after every workout.
That’s all I wanted!
June 25, 2018
Not going to speak much to the writing style as it comes across as a little bro-y. The author would definitely corner you at a bar to talk extensively about his Muscle Milk routine. That said, the workout regiment a godsend. With a two year old, I struggle to find time and energy to get a workout in, but I can get a great sweat going and feel sore the next day with only 16 minutes of work and no equipment. I love it.
August 1, 2018
Inspiring
Really easy to follow and filled with great tips
Straight forward approach and really down to earth make it accessible and encouraging
Starting my max journey today
Really easy to follow and filled with great tips
Straight forward approach and really down to earth make it accessible and encouraging
Starting my max journey today
March 20, 2013
I've not started the workout but the methodology is valid. The workout seems easy to follow and kudos for not using ANY equipment.
There is a free iPhone app and the PDF for the book was a free download. This is a high quality product. It has grammar and spelling errors typical of independent authors, but less than most and I did not find it distracting.
The author makes a compelling case that high intensity exercise at maximum effort is the most effective method of getting in shape. When you consider results per minute spent working out there really isn't a comparison.
If you are REALLY out of shape you can still do the workout, however you will just have to spend some time researching beginner modified movements. The movement you are doing is less important than the concept. As long as you are producing a maximum effort you are fine.
For example if you are not able to do full pushups just do knee pushups until you get rolling.
There are complaints that people that are really out of shape or somewhat immobile won't be able to follow the program. This statement is only true if you stick the his prescribed plan with a dogmatic zeal and completely ignore the methodology he went to great pains to explain.
Don't get lost in the data points. You have to view the method overall and apply the movements you ARE able to do to the method. This book gives you the tools you would need to develop you own skill appropriate workout with very little effort. You would just need to spend some time looking up body weight exercises appropriate for you and plug them into the template.
As far as the author not tailoring the book towards women.. that comment doesn't even make sense. The author cracks a few jokes and tells you to stop making excuses and all of a sudden women can't follow the program? That's a leap.
Why only 4 stars? Well really I probably should give 5 stars because there is an incredible value here for FREE including an online interval watch and smart phone app to actually execute the program and log scores. WOW!
I just couldn't give this 5 stars because he repeats the same tired old "Saturated Fats" are evil lie. Kudos for pushing a diet without processed foods, however animal fat from pasture raised "happy" animals is one of the healthiest things you can possibly eat.
This is a minor complaint so really I rate this book 4.79 stars :D
Enjoy! I'm starting the program this Sunday.
There is a free iPhone app and the PDF for the book was a free download. This is a high quality product. It has grammar and spelling errors typical of independent authors, but less than most and I did not find it distracting.
The author makes a compelling case that high intensity exercise at maximum effort is the most effective method of getting in shape. When you consider results per minute spent working out there really isn't a comparison.
If you are REALLY out of shape you can still do the workout, however you will just have to spend some time researching beginner modified movements. The movement you are doing is less important than the concept. As long as you are producing a maximum effort you are fine.
For example if you are not able to do full pushups just do knee pushups until you get rolling.
There are complaints that people that are really out of shape or somewhat immobile won't be able to follow the program. This statement is only true if you stick the his prescribed plan with a dogmatic zeal and completely ignore the methodology he went to great pains to explain.
Don't get lost in the data points. You have to view the method overall and apply the movements you ARE able to do to the method. This book gives you the tools you would need to develop you own skill appropriate workout with very little effort. You would just need to spend some time looking up body weight exercises appropriate for you and plug them into the template.
As far as the author not tailoring the book towards women.. that comment doesn't even make sense. The author cracks a few jokes and tells you to stop making excuses and all of a sudden women can't follow the program? That's a leap.
Why only 4 stars? Well really I probably should give 5 stars because there is an incredible value here for FREE including an online interval watch and smart phone app to actually execute the program and log scores. WOW!
I just couldn't give this 5 stars because he repeats the same tired old "Saturated Fats" are evil lie. Kudos for pushing a diet without processed foods, however animal fat from pasture raised "happy" animals is one of the healthiest things you can possibly eat.
This is a minor complaint so really I rate this book 4.79 stars :D
Enjoy! I'm starting the program this Sunday.
June 8, 2011
I received this book for my birthday on Sunday. I asked for it after it was "recommended" to me on Amazon. As a law enforcement officer, working odd shifts and hours, I have taken to bodyweight training because it allows me to train at home and, usually, with little to no equipment. I read the book over 1 day. I'm extremely impressed with it! Firstly, it requires zero equipment other than an interval timer. A second-hand on a clock would probably work too.
The program is a 3-day a week workout, done on alternate days, for 12-weeks. Each training session is different, so you aren't doing the same workout all 3 days. The workouts themselves are compound bodyweight movements, meaning the exercises work more than one muscle group at a time. No biceps curls here! Furthermore, the workouts are done against time. In other words, the trainee exerts maximum effort on all the exercises within a given time period. The workouts are basically circuit workouts, performed with little rest. This helps to burn fat, build muscle, and provides enough of a cardio benefit that additional cardio, like extended sessions on a treadmill, aren't necessary.
I like this format for a couple of reasons. First, working against time means you do what you can do. The beginning trainee, or someone who hasn't exercised for awhile, isn't expected to perform a certain number of repetitions or to keep up with someone in better shape. You are essentially training against yourself. Only you will know if you really gave each exercise your best effort. Secondly, the way this program is set up, it can be repeated long after the 12 week program is "finished." You can repeat the program and keep trying to beat the numbers you accomplished the last time you worked through it.
The only true way to measure a workout is to perform it. It might look simple on paper, but after having done similar workouts in the past, I assure you they aren't easy. They are physically and mentally demanding. I would also offer that if these workouts are "simple," then they are perfect starting place for the out-of-shape trainee. I will be starting this workout on Monday, June 13th and will post results a few weeks after. By the way, you can get a look at the workouts for yourself on the book's website, www.maxcapacitytraining.com.
The program is a 3-day a week workout, done on alternate days, for 12-weeks. Each training session is different, so you aren't doing the same workout all 3 days. The workouts themselves are compound bodyweight movements, meaning the exercises work more than one muscle group at a time. No biceps curls here! Furthermore, the workouts are done against time. In other words, the trainee exerts maximum effort on all the exercises within a given time period. The workouts are basically circuit workouts, performed with little rest. This helps to burn fat, build muscle, and provides enough of a cardio benefit that additional cardio, like extended sessions on a treadmill, aren't necessary.
I like this format for a couple of reasons. First, working against time means you do what you can do. The beginning trainee, or someone who hasn't exercised for awhile, isn't expected to perform a certain number of repetitions or to keep up with someone in better shape. You are essentially training against yourself. Only you will know if you really gave each exercise your best effort. Secondly, the way this program is set up, it can be repeated long after the 12 week program is "finished." You can repeat the program and keep trying to beat the numbers you accomplished the last time you worked through it.
The only true way to measure a workout is to perform it. It might look simple on paper, but after having done similar workouts in the past, I assure you they aren't easy. They are physically and mentally demanding. I would also offer that if these workouts are "simple," then they are perfect starting place for the out-of-shape trainee. I will be starting this workout on Monday, June 13th and will post results a few weeks after. By the way, you can get a look at the workouts for yourself on the book's website, www.maxcapacitytraining.com.
May 24, 2011
Right off the bat, let me just say I am pretty sure I am not the target audience for this book - I am a woman, and I like spending time at the gym, doing cardio and weights. It is written by a guy, for a guy. It may not say that explicitly, but that is the general vibe I get from it. The author isn't a trainer or fitness expert; he's an efficiency guy who doesn't want to waste time at the gym. The overall tone comes off as a cocky guy who was able to do something cool, and thinks everyone should be able to as well. Will it work? Maybe for some people, I am sure it will. I might even try the exercises, which look really good and pretty similar to those I have gotten from personal trainers in the past.
However, I think overall the strategies he proposes are too simplistic for many people who are struggling to get in shape and motivate themselves to exercise. His basic view is that if you do this, you should see results; if you don't it is your fault. That is simply not true, and is too black and white to fit most people.
I think this will appeal to cross-fit types and to guys who might want to try Jillian Michael's 30 day shred, but think it is too wussy or don't want to exercise with ladies.
However, I think overall the strategies he proposes are too simplistic for many people who are struggling to get in shape and motivate themselves to exercise. His basic view is that if you do this, you should see results; if you don't it is your fault. That is simply not true, and is too black and white to fit most people.
I think this will appeal to cross-fit types and to guys who might want to try Jillian Michael's 30 day shred, but think it is too wussy or don't want to exercise with ladies.
June 15, 2011
Normally, I would neither review nor rate a fitness book without trying at least some of the exercises, but I am, at present, convalescing from a hysterectomy and cannot try any now, nor probably no small amount of time. I enjoyed Samy's laid back approach to a subject he is dead serious about, that is obvious: this is not a guy who lets things slide, but he'll give you a break too, or at least have a sense of humor about it. I would have to agree with another reviewer who felt sure this book was not intended for women, and I can't say that the author made a concession for a woman who picked up this book meaning to use it as a guide. But the approach and philosophy are very like that which an excellent trainer I have worked with believes and practices, and which I admire. Additionally, I like the idea of not needing equipment, only your own weight-resistance, that appeals to me. I am looking forward to trying some of these anyway, whether they are meant for me or not!
May 26, 2011
If you're short on time and want to get fit, this book is for you. It's very easy to read and unusually entertaining for the genre. I found it to be a straight talk, here-are-the-facts kinda book. It's divided into 2 sections: exercise and nutrtion. The workouts last 16 minutes and are VERY instense! You will be sore for a few days the first time you try it. The nutrition part pretty much tells you to eat healthy foods, so it's hard to argue there. The book's website (MaxCapacityTraining.com) is an excellent resource well worth checking out: all the exercises are posted on there. I've been following the website for 2 months now (before reading the book) and I've lost 2 belt sizes and gained a ton of strength. I recommend try out the website before reading the book. Overall, it's an awesome program.
September 26, 2020
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
It's an easy read, written in a very casual and straightforward manner. Peyret lays out a fitness plan combining sensible eating with a series of short, but strenuous workouts. All the exercises can be done at home without equipment.
I haven't yet figured out how to fit the workouts into my existing routine, but I'm looking forward to giving it a try, perhaps when the weather turns and I'm spending less time running outdoors.
It's an easy read, written in a very casual and straightforward manner. Peyret lays out a fitness plan combining sensible eating with a series of short, but strenuous workouts. All the exercises can be done at home without equipment.
I haven't yet figured out how to fit the workouts into my existing routine, but I'm looking forward to giving it a try, perhaps when the weather turns and I'm spending less time running outdoors.
September 1, 2011
I haven't bought the book, Amazon recommended it when I was looking at Max Contraction Training.
In the comment section someone said go to the website(google). I did and I recommend it too. Gives a 36 day workout plan that takes 16 minutes/3 times a week. Fits well with my experience and research.
3 stars because I haven't got it, but website is good.
In the comment section someone said go to the website(google). I did and I recommend it too. Gives a 36 day workout plan that takes 16 minutes/3 times a week. Fits well with my experience and research.
3 stars because I haven't got it, but website is good.
June 12, 2011
I won a copy of this book from GoodReads.com. Thanks!
I gifted this book to my son as he is really into fitness. He said the book was really interesting. He can't wait to start applying the information. The diagrams for each action were much appreciated and very helpful.
I gifted this book to my son as he is really into fitness. He said the book was really interesting. He can't wait to start applying the information. The diagrams for each action were much appreciated and very helpful.
Read
May 20, 2011I won this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. Thank you.
I received the book yesterday and read it already. Easy straight forward reading. I will come back to write more after a few weeks of trying this training. Thanks.
I received the book yesterday and read it already. Easy straight forward reading. I will come back to write more after a few weeks of trying this training. Thanks.
Read
May 30, 2011I liked the author's sense of humor in this book. I thought he had good ideas about working out on a limited time schedule. I also liked that he had good nutritional information. He ex laird things well. I think this is book that anyone can gain some knowledge from.
October 19, 2011
I like the concept. Haven't put the concept into action yet though, so not sure of the results.
September 1, 2011
Good work out book...just starting to try the techniques... new stuff is always fun. Question is...like always...will it keep my interest.
January 7, 2013
If you want to start an exercise routine today, look no further. Programs are simple to follow and detailed. Take into account that this is not an treatise on the matter.
Real good, though.
Real good, though.
July 16, 2013
easy to understand and straight forward.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews