Starting Strength (2nd edition)

As good for an established lifter wanting to review the fundamentals as it is for a beginner. The author has a refreshingly simple, direct style, which when combined with his encyclopedic knowledge of the body and his vast experience in the weight room, makes for an indispensable book. There are also hundreds of pictures illustrating nearly every point the author makes. An awesome work. And it's even an enjoyable read!

Mark Rippetoe's "Starting Strength" is, without question, one of the finest books of its kind. I have been going to gyms all my life, listening to people and reading many books on all aspects of weight training. Mr. Rippetoe, via his book, is the best teacher I have encountered. Whether you're a novice or an experienced lifter, "Starting Strength" will improve your performance and your outlook in the gym. It is a complete reference for the technique, and the purpose, of all the important barbell movements. It is well written, clear, and thorough. Highly recommended.

Probably one of the best sports related books I have ever read. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to build strength.

Hi

I teach Crossfit [...] and this book is quite simply Brilliant. It is also a great companion for crossfitters to help with technique. If you want to really learn the lifts, if you want to get stronger this is the place to go. Be warned this is not a hone and tone body building book but a great work dedicated to compound lifts and the development of strength.

Just buy it !

This is the best book on weight training I've read, and I've read a lot of them.

I wish I had had it 15 years ago. If you know a young person getting into strength training, buy them this book.

Also get Practical Programming for Strength Training, by the same authors. Consider getting Science and Practice of Strength Training by Zatsiorsky and Kraemer if you want the footnotes. Though frankly, all these books could use better footnotes.

One tiny quibble is that the book is strongly focused on strength training, as it says in the title. This isn't the same thing as fitness or aesthetics, which are probably more common motivators for weight training. As far as I know there are no really good books on weight training for non-strength goals. Yes, I've read Stuart McRobert.