Strength training without quackery

Few areas of sports medicine are as plagued by mythology and unscientific jingoism as the area of strength training. Methods used vary according to the environment in which the training is conducted. Different sporting codes have different traditions, and coaches tend to have their own set of beliefs or bias, often the result of their own sporting experiences.

This book provides a very readable overview of the principles and practical applications of strength training. Its most impressive feature is that each chapter is heavily referenced from peer-reviewed journals, providing credibility in an area renowned for quackery.

The authors begin with a history of strength training and a thorough explanation of the underlying scientific principles. The chapter on neuromuscular adaptions provides fascinating reading. For those who work with sporting teams, the authors provide practical advice on how to develop a strength training program. Issues such as periodisation of training programs are covered, as well as examples of strength training programs for various specific sports. Special considerations, such as differences between the sexes, junior athletes, the aged and overtraining, have all been addressed.

The information is presented in a format suited for practical application. There are plenty of illustrations, point form summaries and graphical representation of data.

This is an excellent book for those involved with athletes or those wishing to understand the science behind strength training. My only criticism is its failure to deal with the controversial and difficult area of nutrition for strength training. Sports supplementation is one of the boom areas of athlete exploitation, with aggressive marketing of substances that are often unproven and potentially dangerous. A chapter on nutritional aspects would have rounded off what is otherwise an excellent publication.

David C HughesSports Physician Deakin, ACT