Being a strength coach is more than just yelling at people to lift heavier. It’s about understanding the science behind movement, designing effective programs, and motivating athletes to reach their full potential. And staying on top of the latest research and training methodologies is crucial. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best books for strength coaches. These aren’t just textbooks; they’re practical guides packed with actionable information you can use to improve your coaching.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Supertraining by Mel Siff and Yuri Verkhoshansky: The bible of strength training, covering everything from biomechanics to periodization.
- Science and Practice of Strength Training by Vladimir Zatsiorsky and William Kraemer: A deep dive into the scientific principles underlying strength development.
- Practical Programming for Strength Training by Mark Rippetoe: A no-nonsense guide to designing effective strength training programs.
- Becoming a Supple Leopard by Kelly Starrett: Focuses on mobility and movement quality to prevent injuries and improve performance.
- Conscious Coaching by Brett Bartholomew: Explores the psychological side of coaching and how to build strong relationships with athletes.
Top 5 Best Books For Strength Coaches
1. Supertraining
Supertraining is widely considered the most comprehensive book on strength training ever written. It covers a vast range of topics, from the fundamental principles of biomechanics and physiology to advanced training methodologies like periodization and plyometrics. This book will give you a deep understanding of the science behind strength and conditioning.
Pros:
- ✅ Comprehensive coverage of strength training principles
- ✅ Written by leading experts in the field
- ✅ Includes detailed explanations of advanced training techniques
Cons:
- ❌ Can be dense and challenging to read
- ❌ Some information may be outdated (though the core principles remain relevant)
- ❌ Requires a strong foundation in exercise science
Verdict: This is a must-read for any serious strength coach looking to deepen their understanding of the science behind training.
2. Science and Practice of Strength Training
This book bridges the gap between scientific research and practical application in strength training. Vladimir Zatsiorsky and William Kraemer present a detailed analysis of the physiological adaptations to resistance training, along with practical guidelines for designing effective programs. It’s a textbook, but a very important one.
Pros:
- ✅ Based on extensive scientific research
- ✅ Provides clear explanations of complex physiological concepts
- ✅ Offers practical recommendations for program design
Cons:
- ❌ Can be quite technical and academic
- ❌ Less focused on practical coaching techniques
- ❌ May require some background knowledge in exercise physiology
Verdict: A valuable resource for coaches who want to base their training decisions on solid scientific evidence.
3. Practical Programming for Strength Training
Mark Rippetoe’s book is a no-nonsense guide to designing effective strength training programs. It focuses on the basic principles of strength development and provides practical advice on how to apply them in a real-world setting. This book is great if you’re looking for clear, actionable guidance without a lot of fluff.
Pros:
- ✅ Simple and straightforward approach
- ✅ Focuses on the most important principles of strength training
- ✅ Provides practical examples of program design
Cons:
- ❌ Can be overly dogmatic in its approach
- ❌ Doesn’t cover advanced training techniques in detail
- ❌ May not be suitable for all athletes or training goals
Verdict: A great starting point for coaches who are new to strength training or who want to simplify their programming.
4. Becoming a Supple Leopard
This isn’t just about strength, it’s about movement quality. Kelly Starrett’s book is a comprehensive guide to mobility and movement mechanics. It teaches you how to identify and correct movement dysfunctions, which can help prevent injuries and improve athletic performance. I wish I had this one when I was first starting out!
Pros:
- ✅ Comprehensive guide to mobility and movement mechanics
- ✅ Provides practical techniques for improving movement quality
- ✅ Helps prevent injuries and improve athletic performance
Cons:
- ❌ Can be overwhelming due to the amount of information
- ❌ Requires a hands-on approach to implement the techniques
- ❌ Some techniques may not be suitable for all individuals
Verdict: An essential resource for coaches who want to prioritize movement quality and injury prevention in their training programs.
5. Conscious Coaching
Brett Bartholomew’s book explores the psychological side of coaching and how to build strong relationships with athletes. It teaches you how to communicate effectively, motivate your athletes, and create a positive training environment. I think this is often overlooked, but it is so important.
Pros:
- ✅ Focuses on the psychological aspects of coaching
- ✅ Provides practical strategies for building strong relationships with athletes
- ✅ Helps create a positive and effective training environment
Cons:
- ❌ Less focused on the technical aspects of strength training
- ❌ Requires a willingness to reflect on your own coaching style
- ❌ Some strategies may not be applicable to all athletes or situations
Verdict: A valuable resource for coaches who want to improve their communication skills and build stronger relationships with their athletes.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right books for your strength coaching library depends on your individual needs and goals. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Your Level of Experience: Are you just starting out, or are you an experienced coach looking to deepen your knowledge? Some books are better suited for beginners, while others are more advanced.
- Your Areas of Interest: Are you more interested in the scientific principles of strength training, or are you more focused on practical program design? Choose books that align with your specific interests.
- Your Coaching Philosophy: Do you prefer a more traditional approach to strength training, or are you open to new and innovative methods? Select books that reflect your coaching philosophy.
- Your Budget: Books can be expensive, so set a budget before you start shopping. You don’t need to buy every book on this list at once. Start with the ones that seem most relevant to your needs.
- Read Reviews: Before you buy a book, read reviews from other coaches to get a sense of its strengths and weaknesses.
FAQs
Q: What is the most important book for strength coaches to read?
A: Supertraining is widely considered the most comprehensive and influential book on strength training. It’s a must-read for any serious coach.
Q: Are these books only for strength coaches working with athletes?
A: No, these books can be valuable for anyone interested in strength training, including personal trainers, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals who train themselves.
Q: Do I need a background in exercise science to understand these books?
A: Some books, like Science and Practice of Strength Training, are more technical and may require some background knowledge. However, others, like Practical Programming for Strength Training, are more accessible to beginners.
Q: Where can I buy these books?
A: Most of these books are available on Amazon and other online retailers. You may also be able to find them at your local bookstore or library.
Q: How often should I update my strength coaching library?
A: The field of strength and conditioning is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest research and training methodologies. Aim to add a new book or two to your library each year.
Conclusion
Investing in your knowledge is one of the best things you can do as a strength coach. These books offer a wealth of information and practical guidance that can help you become a more effective and successful coach. So, pick a book (or two!) and start learning. Your athletes will thank you for it.
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