May 1, 2024
Updated June 19, 2025
20 minute read
An Introduction to Strength Training
Strength training, also referred to as resistance training, is a specialized form of physical exercise designed to enhance muscular strength and endurance. It involves working your muscles against an external resistance, such as weights, your own bodyweight, or resistance bands. The core objective is to progressively challenge your muscles, prompting them to adapt and become stronger over time. This type of training is a fundamental component of overall health and fitness for individuals of all ages and abilities.
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Reading list
We've selected 34 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Strength Training.
Comprehensive textbook on the science and practice of strength training and conditioning. The NSCA provides a detailed overview of the latest research and best practices in the field.
Comprehensive reference on the science and practice of strength training. Zatsiorsky and Kraemer provide detailed explanations of the physiological and biomechanical principles underlying strength training.
This classic text comprehensive guide to the science and practice of strength training. Verkhoshansky and Siff provide detailed explanations of training principles, programming, and recovery.
Is widely considered the foundational text in the field of strength and conditioning. It provides a broad and deep understanding of the scientific principles, program design, and testing and evaluation methods essential to strength training. It is commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions and crucial reference for professionals preparing for certifications.
Authored by a leading researcher in the field, this book offers a comprehensive, evidence-based exploration of the science behind muscle growth. It delves into the mechanisms of hypertrophy, factors influencing it, and practical applications for program design and nutrition. This valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of how muscles adapt to training. The second edition includes new chapters on measurement and advanced training practices.
A follow-up to 'Starting Strength,' this book delves into the principles of program design for novice, intermediate, and advanced lifters. It explains how to structure training over time to continue making progress, addressing plateaus and recovery. This crucial text for understanding the 'why' behind training programs.
A cornerstone text on the concept of periodization, this book outlines how to structure training into cycles to optimize performance and prevent overtraining. It's essential for anyone designing long-term training plans for athletes or serious trainees.
Offers a detailed guide to designing individualized resistance training programs based on scientific evidence. It covers various aspects of program design and considerations for different populations.
Comprehensive guide to strength training for women. Brown provides detailed instructions on how to perform exercises, design training programs, and nutrition for building muscle and strength.
Classic and highly recommended resource for individuals new to barbell training. It provides detailed instructions on performing fundamental exercises like the squat, press, and deadlift with a focus on proper form and technique. While focused on beginners, it lays a solid foundation for understanding basic strength movements.
Delves into the science of strength training programming. Rippetoe and Kilgore provide a comprehensive guide to designing training programs for different goals and individuals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of periodization. Bompa and Buzzichelli explain how to design training programs that optimize performance and minimize the risk of injury.
Provides a detailed anatomical guide to strength training exercises. Delavier provides clear and concise explanations of the muscles involved in each exercise and how to perform them correctly.
Practical guide to advanced strength training techniques. Cosgrove provides detailed instructions on how to perform complex lifts and how to program them for optimal results.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of nutrition for strength training. Helms, Hudy, and Aragon provide detailed explanations of the macronutrients, micronutrients, and supplements that are essential for building muscle and strength.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of training for strength training. Helms, Hudy, and Aragon provide detailed explanations of the training principles, programming, and recovery techniques that are essential for building muscle and strength.
Bridges the gap between scientific principles and practical application in strength training. It covers various training methods and considerations for different populations, making it a valuable resource for coaches and serious trainees.
Developed by the NSCA, this guide provides an evidence-based framework for designing training programs for various goals, including strength, power, and endurance. It's a practical resource for professionals and students learning to create effective programs.
Considered a seminal work in the field of strength and conditioning, 'Supertraining' explores advanced concepts of training theory, including the shock method and the physiological basis of adaptation. While technically demanding and not always the most user-friendly, it offers profound insights into high-performance training for athletes.
This widely used textbook in exercise physiology programs. It provides a strong scientific basis for understanding the body's responses and adaptations to exercise, including strength training. It's valuable for gaining a deeper theoretical understanding.
Brings together contributions from leading experts in sports science and coaching to provide an in-depth look at training for high performance. It covers various aspects of strength and conditioning within a broader sports science context.
Provides a comprehensive overview of strength and conditioning principles and their application to improving sports performance. It covers various aspects of training, including needs analysis, program design, and monitoring.
Focuses on functional strength training, emphasizing movements that translate to improved athletic performance and injury prevention. It's a valuable resource for athletes and coaches looking to enhance sport-specific strength.
Focuses on the specific demands of team sports and how to design strength and conditioning programs to meet those needs. It covers topics such as neuromuscular training, injury prevention, and periodization for team athletes.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/ltm1ny/strength
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