Dynamics of Strength Training

As a former competitive powerlifter returning to lifting and helping new athletes, I asked powerlifting stalwart Dave Jeffrey what to read for updates on the latest in the science of strength and conditioning. He recommended this book, and his recommendation was well founded. If you want routines and advanced techniques for heaving lifting and strength development this is not your book. But if you want a refresher (or a first course) on how strength and conditioning all fits together, including the basics of why muscles get stronger (or don't), this book is your ticket. Young (and also more mature) lifters will find the basics that an althlete really needs to know for overall strength development. As for the really heaving lifting, there are some great books out there but there is no substitute for going to a gym where experienced lifters are pushing up eye-popping amounts of weight, and having those individuals explain and demonstrate first hand their techniques. No book can catch the minor lifting imperfections that can lead to serious injury when the lifter (young or old) decides to make the transition from casual to serious amounts of weight on the bar. But for the basics of how strength and conditioning works, this is the essential textbook.