MEDIA REVIEW

ESSENTIALS OF STRENGTH TRAINING AND CONDITIONING (3rd Edition) (also offered as an e-book)

Target Audience/Purpose: The purpose of the textbook is to provide the fundamental knowledge and expertise necessary to become a professional in the field of strength training and overall athletic conditioning. It is mostly designed for those intending to receive certification through the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist). However, the book is also useful as a resource for those pursuing a career in personal training and also seeking certification through the NSCA. It would also be useful as a college-level textbook or for the personal library of anyone with a moderate level of interest in exercise science.

Content: Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning is a book suitable for college-aged students or adults with a basic background in exercise science, as well as anyone interested in topics such as nutrition, anatomy and physiology, sport psychology, endocrine systems, anaerobic and aerobic training, plyometrics and resistance training, liability issues, and facility management, among others. At over 600 pages long, the book features 22 chapters, a vast reference list, study questions and answers, color photos, and an index.

Because the book is encyclopedic in nature, each chapter is not exhaustive on its specific topic; rather, it is intended to provide information most pertinent to the reader and prospective professional. But readers will find that topics are thoroughly presented and engaging, with an abundance of information. No matter how many times one has pored over the book, readers will always be able to glean a new or forgotten nugget of information.

Strengths/Limitations: Its greatest strength is the amount of information it contains. As stated above, it is not exhaustive on topics but provides adequate coverage of the topic. Most chapters are written in such a way that they do not discriminate against people who are not already professionals in exercise science. Readers will only need a basic understanding of exercise science principles to understand the book.

The question-and-answer pages at the end of each chapter are a helpful feature of this textbook. These are specifically designed to provide prospective certification candidates with the preparation for the certification test. The reference list is exhaustive and will take readers to a vast amount of additional resources on every topic, should they be interested. The color pictures also add to the aesthetic quality of the book, as well as demonstrate specific principles and exercises to readers who benefit more from seeing something in a picture rather than reading about it.

It is hard to say that a text book of over 600 pages is limited, but that might also be its biggest limitation. If someone is looking for a book to quickly educate them, they will probably find this book too expensive, broad, and overwhelming because of its length. Readers may also find that some chapters contain too much jargon, and the science can be confusing.

Summary: I found the quality of writing to be very good and the content invaluable. This book could be used as the curriculum guide for any secondary school or university class of a related topic or in one’s personal library. I enjoyed the book and learn something new every time I open it.

Recommendation: This book is an invaluable resource for anyone in a field associated with exercise science. It would also be beneficial as a secondary source for anyone with a career or personal interest in exercise science, physiology, anatomy, biology, chemistry, physics, or nutrition. It would also be beneficial and educational for non-professionals who have an interest in sport and fitness conditioning.

Reviewer: Derek Cooley, Graduate Student, Arizona State University, Mary Lou Fulton College of Education (2012)

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