There are some books that are purchased with good intentions in mind but sadly end up at the bottom of book stands that rarely see the light of day. Occasionally though, one turns up that provides years of good use and is referred to time and time again. The book I’m referring to is called Strength Training Anatomy-3rd Edition by Frederic Delavier.
The Author Frederic Delavier is the former editor in chief of the French magazine PowerMag and is currently a journalist for another French magazine Le monde du Muscle.
Strength Training Anatomy has sold over 1 million copies and is translated into 20 languages and has been one of the best selling strength training books in recent years.
This book consists of over 400 full color illustrations and few written words. The book is divided into seven main sections i.e Arms, Shoulders, Chest, Back, Legs, Buttocks and Abdomen, each section then goes into further detail by depicting over 100 exercises. Each exercise has an illustration showing in detail which muscle(s) are being used and the surrounding ligaments, bones and tendons that accompany the muscle group.
Strength Training Anatomy is up to itâs third edition, the latest edition covers additional stretches and more illustrations. The book also covers information on common training injuries and how to prevent them. The graphics a simply awesome and is a great addition to anyone’s book collection.
Who is this book for? This book is for anybody interested in physical development of any kind, a must have for body builders and personal trainers but also great for anyone wishing to develop a targeted area such as legs for cyclists, upper body for swimmers, all round strength for football players and so on.
I’ve had this book for a while and is one of the few books that continues to get used on a weekly basis, it has given me a greater understanding of how the muscles interact and which are the primary muscles used for a given exercise. Itâs a book that I can easily reference, even during a workout when time is limited. Far easier to look at illustrations than try to read a page or two looking for what you need.
Another one of Frederic Delavier’s that I thought is worth mentioning which is in a similar mould to this one, is Women’s Strength Training Anatomy which is also popular with over 2 million copies sold.
I hope this book review has helped, please leave any comments that would help other people make an informative decision in buying this book.