Weight Training for Dummies Author:Liz Neporent, Suzanne Schlosberg It's only natural for a beginner to be baffled by the equipment and the lingo of weight training. In this book, you'll find the knowledge and confidence to start a weight training program, either at home or at a gym. Weight Training For Dummies describes more than 150 exercises suitable for rookies and veterans alike. This edition also up... more »dates you on the latest in weight training equipment, Web sites, videos, research, and gym classes. Everyone has different reasons for wanting to lift weights. Undoubtedly, many of these reasons have to do with looking better. Sculpted arm and toned "abs" have become somewhat of a fashion statement. But there are even more compelling and, ultimately, more satisfying reasons to lift weights. Here's a reminder of what weight training can do for you:
Keep your bones healthy
Help control your weight
Increase your strength
Boost your energy
Improve your heart health
Improve the quality of life
Lifting isn't one of those activities like, say, checkers, that you can competently engage in after a one-minute explanation. Weight Training For Dummies explains the jargon and key safety precautions you need to get started. But the book won't leave you wondering what comes next. This engaging, down-to-earth guide covers all of the following topics and more:
Free weights and weight machines
The immutable safety laws of weight lifting
Avoiding and treating common injuries
Tracking your progress
Choosing a health club
Finding a personal trainer
Weight training etiquette
Designing your workout
Combing weight training with aerobic exercise
Nutrition in a nutshell
The exercise section of this book demonstrates a wide variety of exercises for all your major muscle groups. Each chapter includes a muscle diagram (so that you can locate your "quads" and your "delts") and an ever-so-brief physiology discussion. Exercises are demonstrated for novices and veterans, home lifters and gym members. You will also find out how to modify many of the exercises if you have trouble with your back, your knees, or other joints.« less
If you like the Dummies format in other works, you will love this one. There are many good pointers offered for the weight training enthusiast. I liked the sections on using alternative resistance bands for when you travel, and I especially paid attention to the keeping records of your workouts. Overall, the book is a great starting point for those interested in getting back into good health. The book could offer more sections on cardio training and the absolute most important section dealing with diet and nutrition. It will do no good to turn the pages of this book with one hand while you are holding pizza and chicken wings with the other. Weight Training for Dummies has inspired me to get further works on kettlebell training. Also, I have constructed 'do it yourself' exercise gymnastic rings for additional isometric/body weight workouts. Taken with a daily regimen of running, diet, weights and kettlebells, I think I am in pretty good shape.