A Practical Approach to Strength Training is a response to those seeking a safer, more efficient way to strength train. Matt Brzycki, Coordinator of Health Fitness, Strength and Conditioning Programs at Princeton University, examines all aspects of strength training--including specificity, high intensity training, explosive training and plyometrics, and offers advice on how to organize individual and group strength training programs. Featuring Nautilus, Universal Gym, free weight and manual resistance exercises, this revised edition also includes chapters designed for those teaching strength training courses at the high school and college levels. " A Practical Approach to Strength Training should be a staple for all coaches and athletes. This book deals with the facts and cuts through the myths and misconceptions of strength training." -- John Dunn Strength Coach, San Diego Chargers " A Practical Approach to Strength Training is an excellent book. (Its great value) is found on the chapters on how one actually applies the knowledge in the weight room. This is an extremely valuable book for practitioners in the strength training field." -- Kim Wood Strength Coach Cincinnati Bengals "This book is easy to read, yet loaded with relevant information for any strength coach at any level. It contains all the fundamentals for building a safe, efficient strength training program and belongs on the shelves of anyone who's interested in fitness." -- Shaun Brown Strength and Conditioning Coach University of Kentucky "In addition to providing sound information on sensible strength training, the text is presented in a very practical manner . . . and the emphasis on safety is obvious from start to finish. I am most impressed with the author's commitment to athletes and his willingness to take a stand on controversial subjects." -- Dr. Wayne Wescott National Fitness Advisor YMCA of the USA "Great reading for any teacher or coach. This book provides the most up-to-date conditioning information available." -- Dan Riley Strength Coach Washington Redskins
25 years ago I did 3-4 sets per exercise, doing split routines, spending 2 hours per day, 4-6 days a week training. Was I strong ? Yes but I had no life, suffered muscle injuries every 2-3 months. I stopped lifting for 15 years.
I came across this manual 10 years ago, read it, tried the approach for a year. It is the best, simplest, safest and efficient strength training philosophy. I have *never* had an injury while using this system. I *have* been pushed to exhaustion, had aches from muscles worked to the limit and made excellent gains, while spending no more than 3 hours a week training. You read it correctly: 3 x 1 hours sessions a week.
Don't believe me? Try it. No powders, juice, gimmicks or odd equipment. You need to show up and have willpower. That's it.
This is a technical book written primarily for strength training instructors but still accessible to the lay person. Every claim is supported by academic research, with competing views discussed and evaluated. I have found it very helpful in supporting my own efforts with strength training. I recommend it to anyone interested in the subject.