"Strength Training for Hockey" by NSCA -National Strength & Conditioning Association, Kevin Neeld, Brijesh Patel made it to BookAuthority's Best Strength Training Audiobooks of All Time!
10 Strength Training Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs
Recommended by Bret Contreras, Tom Venuto, and P. D. Mangan — the ultimate guides for Strength Training mastery
Updated on June 28, 2025·We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page
2 of 10 books have Audiobook versions
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What if the secret to building strength wasn't just about lifting heavier but lifting smarter? Strength training has evolved beyond simple routines to a science-backed discipline, blending biomechanics, nutrition, and targeted programming. In a world flooded with fitness advice, discerning which books truly deliver can feel overwhelming.
Bret Contreras, PhD and author known for his work on glute training, stumbled onto The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 after years of research, calling it "a must-read for all aspiring fitness enthusiasts who seek to maximize their muscularity." Similarly, Tom Venuto, author of Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle, praises its scientific rigor combined with practical application. Meanwhile, P. D. Mangan, a microbiologist and health educator, highlights Body by Science for its efficient, research-based approach, and Terry Francona, former Cleveland Indians manager, emphasizes the sport-specific value of Strength Training for Baseball to prepare athletes properly.
While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific age, sport, or equipment preferences might consider creating a personalized Strength Training book that builds on these insights, perfectly matching your background and goals.
Bret Contreras, PhD and author renowned for his work on glute training, highlights this book for its blend of research and gym-tested strategies that elevate muscle building to a new level. He emphasizes how Brad Schoenfeld's expertise as a hypertrophy specialist shines through the detailed exercises and programming, calling it "a must-read for all aspiring fitness enthusiasts who seek to maximize their muscularity." Contreras's endorsement stems from his own deep dive into the science of strength training, making this book a trusted roadmap. Alongside him, Tom Venuto, bestselling author focused on fat loss and muscle gain, praises the program’s scientific soundness and efficiency, reinforcing why this guide deserves your attention if you’re serious about muscle growth.
PhD, Author of Glute Lab and Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy
“The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 is a must-read for all aspiring fitness enthusiasts who seek to maximize their muscularity. Brad Schoenfeld is the world's premier hypertrophy specialist. His combination of academic research–based knowledge with practical in-the-trenches gym experience sets this program apart from everything else on the market.” (from Amazon)
Brad Schoenfeld, PhD, CSCS,*D, NSCA-CPT,*D, FNSCA, is internationally regarded as one of the foremost authorities on muscle hypertrophy. The 2011 National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Personal Trainer of the Year, Schoenfeld is a lifetime drug-free bodybuilder who has won multiple natural bodybuilding titles. As a personal trainer, he has worked with numerous elite-level physique athletes, including many top pros. Schoenfeld was the recipient of the 2016 Dwight D. Eisenhower Fitness Award, which is presented by the United States Sports Academy for outstanding achievement in fitness and for contributions to the growth and development of sport fitness through outstanding leadership activity. He was also the 2018 cowinner of the NSCA Outstanding Young Investigator Award. He is the author of multiple fitness books, including Science and Development of Muscle Hypertrophy and Strong & Sculpted. He has been published or featured in virtually every major fitness magazine and has appeared on hundreds of television shows and radio programs across the United States. Currently, he writes the “Ask the Muscle Doc” column for Bodybuilding.com. Schoenfeld earned his PhD in health promotion and wellness at Rocky Mountain University, where his research focused on elucidating the mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and their application to resistance training. He has published more than 300 peer-reviewed scientific papers and serves on the editorial advisory boards for several journals, including the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research and the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Schoenfeld is a full professor of exercise science at Lehman College in the Bronx, New York, and is director of the graduate program in human performance and fitness. He previously served as the sports nutrition consultant to the New Jersey Devils hockey organization.
Brad Schoenfeld brings his extensive background as a natural bodybuilder and exercise science professor to craft a muscle-building program grounded in scientific research and practical application. You’ll learn how to execute 106 exercises with precision, backed by over 200 photos that demonstrate technique, and follow a three-phase plan tailored to maximize lean muscle gains over six months. The book also addresses beginners through a break-in routine and includes up-to-date nutrition and cardio guidelines that complement strength training goals. If you want a structured, evidence-based approach to transforming your physique while understanding the science behind hypertrophy, this book offers clear guidance without fluff.
Terry Francona, Cleveland Indians Manager, highlights the importance of fundamental physical preparation, emphasizing how this book provides the right routines to help players reach their full potential. His insight reflects deep experience coaching at the highest level, where strength training is crucial to consistent performance. "We stress playing the game the right way to our guys all the time. That includes preparing themselves fundamentally and physically to play every day." This recommendation underscores the book’s value for anyone serious about building baseball-specific strength and conditioning programs.
“We stress playing the game the right way to our guys all the time. That includes preparing themselves fundamentally and physically to play every day. It starts in the weight room, with the right routines to draw from and help reach any player’s full potential.” (from Amazon)
NSCA -National Strength & Conditioning Association, A. Eugene Coleman, David J. Szymanski, Nolan Ryan(you?)·
About the Author
A. Eugene Coleman, EdD, RSCC*E, is a professor emeritus in the exercise and health science program at University of Houston–Clear Lake. He serves as a strength consultant for the Texas Rangers and as a content editor for the Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society website. Coleman was the first strength and conditioning professional in Major League Baseball (MLB) and worked with the Houston Astros from 1978 to 2012. He was also the first strength and conditioning professional invited to the MLB All-Star game in 2012, the same year in which he earned the NSCA Lifetime Achievement Award. David J. Szymanski, PhD, CSCS,*D, RSCC*E, FNSCA, is the department chair and a professor of kinesiology at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana. He is the director of baseball performance for the Louisiana Tech baseball team and formerly served as the head strength and conditioning coach and as an assistant baseball coach for that team as well as at Auburn University and Texas Lutheran University.
After decades of firsthand experience shaping Major League Baseball athletes, A. Eugene Coleman and his co-authors unpack how targeted resistance training enhances baseball performance. You’ll gain a clear understanding of position-specific physical demands, learning to tailor strength programs for pitchers, catchers, and fielders alike. The book provides detailed exercise breakdowns, variations, and coaching cues, supported by 34 sample seasonal training plans that align with competitive schedules. Whether you’re a coach or athlete seeking to translate gym strength into on-field power, this resource offers practical frameworks grounded in research and pro-level practice.
NSCA Lifetime Achievement Award for A. Eugene Coleman
This personalized AI book about strength training is created based on your experience level, fitness background, and specific strength goals. By sharing what aspects you want to focus on—whether technique, programming, or recovery—you receive a book tailored to address exactly your needs. This approach makes complex strength training concepts accessible and relevant, helping you develop a path that fits your unique situation rather than a generic plan.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
This tailored book explores the fundamentals and advanced techniques of strength training, carefully matching your background and goals to create a focused learning experience. It covers essential principles such as exercise selection, intensity progression, and recovery methods, all aligned with your unique fitness level and aspirations. By blending core strength concepts with personalized attention to your specific interests, the book reveals how to develop effective routines that resonate with your capabilities and desired outcomes.
Through a tailored approach, it examines how to integrate nutrition, injury prevention, and adaptation strategies that ensure lasting strength gains. This personalized guide encourages efficient mastery by concentrating on what matters most to you, making complex expert knowledge accessible and relevant.
Matt Ghaffari, a decorated Olympian and multiple-time world champion in Greco-Roman wrestling, credits his success partly to training with Allen Hedrick’s dumbbell programs. He recalls that "Training with Coach Hedrick, including his dumbbell training program, played a role in my winning medals at both the world championships and Olympic Games." This endorsement highlights how Hedrick’s methods translate from theory to elite-level results. Alongside Johnny Parker, former NFL head strength coach, who praises Hedrick’s innovative dumbbell techniques, the book stands as a practical guide for those serious about elevating strength and performance through versatile equipment.
Olympic Medalist and Greco-Roman Wrestling Champion
“Training with Coach Hedrick, including his dumbbell training program, played a role in my winning medals at both the world championships and Olympic Games. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to enhance sport performance or improve their overall fitness.” (from Amazon)
Allen Hedrick, MA, CSCS, FNSCA, has a bachelor’s degree from California State University at Chico and a master’s degree from California State University at Fresno. Following graduation, he was hired as a strength and conditioning coach at the United States Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he stayed for three years. Hedrick then served as the assistant strength and conditioning coach at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs for three years before being named the head strength and conditioning coach, a position he held for nine years. Hedrick then moved to the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) headquarters, where he worked as the head strength and conditioning coach and later as the education coordinator. In 2009, he was named the first-ever head strength and conditioning coach at Colorado State University at Pueblo. During his career, Hedrick has worked with athletes from elementary school students to athletes at the professional and Olympic levels, including athletes who have won medals in the Olympic Games (Bonnie Blair in speed skating and Matt Ghaffari in Greco-Roman wrestling). A frequent writer, Hedrick has been published over 100 times in a variety of publications on a variety of topics related to strength and conditioning. In addition, he has presented at numerous conferences and clinics, both nationally and internationally, including in Guatemala, Japan, Australia, and China. In 2003, Hedrick was selected by his peers as the NSCA's Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year.
Allen Hedrick, with over 25 years of experience including tenure as head strength coach at the United States Olympic Training Center, lays out a focused exploration of dumbbell training as a versatile alternative to barbell workouts. You learn over 110 targeted exercises spanning core, upper, and lower body, complemented by 66 tailored programs for fitness goals like fat loss and strength or sports-specific improvements in cycling, wrestling, and more. Hedrick’s practical insights, such as the "Did You Know?" tips, reveal how dumbbells can refine your workout structure effectively. This book fits anyone from athletes seeking performance gains to fitness enthusiasts wanting structured, adaptable strength training without heavy equipment.
Triathlete Magazine, a trusted authority in endurance sports, emphasizes the book's impact by stating, "Strength Training for Triathletes shows how adding strength training to your exercise program can yield significant performance results." Their endorsement carries weight considering their deep involvement in triathlon coverage and coaching insights. This recommendation reflects how the book reshaped their view on integrating strength work into triathlon training. Similarly, USA Triathlon Magazine appreciates the book as "a comprehensive guide to developing and following a well-rounded strength program," reinforcing its value for serious competitors looking to elevate their training. These expert insights make this book a compelling choice if you want to strengthen your triathlon performance efficiently.
“Strength Training for Triathletes shows how adding strength training to your exercise program can yield significant performance results.” (from Amazon)
Dr. Patrick Hagerman, EdD, FNSCA, CSCS, NSCACPT, has established himself as an authority on the topic of strength training through his experience as a professor of exercise and sports science, a coach, and a personal trainer. Starting as a collegiate strength and conditioning coach, Hagerman went on to coach for USA Weightlifting and USA Triathlon and to serve on the USA Triathlon Coaching Commission. Hagerman is a fellow of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), a past member of its board of directors, and a recipient of the 2002 NSCA Personal Trainer of the Year award. Hagerman has written six other books on fitness and strength training, contributed to numerous textbooks, and published more than 30 articles on strength and conditioning. For over 25 years he has competed in triathlon, cycling, windsurfing, and adventure racing.
After years coaching elite athletes and contributing extensively to sports science, Dr. Patrick Hagerman crafted this book to address a gap he noticed: triathletes often overlook targeted strength training that boosts race-day performance. You’ll gain a detailed understanding of how to build power, speed, and endurance specific to swimming, cycling, and running through 75 exercises with clear instructions and photos. For example, chapter sections break down workouts by race distance and focus areas like core strength and muscular endurance. This book suits triathletes ready to integrate strength training efficiently into busy schedules, though those seeking general fitness advice might find the focus too specialized.
Alana Collins is a Certified Fitness Coach based in Victoria, British Columbia, specializing in training middle-aged and older adults. Her focus on sustainable strength and wellness over quick fixes informs this 6-week program, designed to help you build muscle and maintain agility safely as you age. Collins' practical experience working with her clients shapes the adaptable workouts and motivational support found throughout the book.
Alana Collins is a Certified Fitness Coach based in Victoria, British Columbia, who works primarily with clients middle-aged and older. She is a champion of strength training for life, focusing on sustainable strength and wellness rather than quick-fix gimmicks. For more information about Alana, visit www.alanacollinsfitnesscoach.com.
Drawing from her extensive experience as a Certified Fitness Coach working with middle-aged and older clients, Alana Collins crafted this program to address the unique challenges of maintaining muscle and mobility after 40. You'll learn how to increase muscle mass safely through adaptable workouts that suit both gym and home environments, underscored by clear tutorials and motivational tools like weekly goals and self-check worksheets. The book emphasizes balanced, full-body routines that prioritize joint health and metabolic support, offering modifications to fit your fitness level. If you want a realistic, flexible approach to staying strong and agile as you age, this book speaks directly to that need.
This AI-created book on strength training is crafted based on your background, skill level, and specific goals for rapid strength gains. By sharing your experience and the areas you want to focus on, you receive a tailored 30-day plan that suits your unique needs. This personalized approach helps you avoid generic advice and instead provides clear, focused workouts to enhance your results efficiently. Creating a custom strength training book ensures you stay motivated and progress on a path made just for you.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
This tailored book explores a focused 30-day strength training plan designed to deliver rapid improvements through personalized workouts. It examines the science behind muscle adaptation and strength gains, crafting a progression that matches your experience level and fitness goals. By concentrating on your specific interests and current capabilities, this book reveals how to maximize efforts without overwhelming complexity. The personalized approach allows you to engage with exercises and routines best suited to your body and objectives, fostering consistent progress and motivation. Whether you seek foundational strength or targeted muscle development, this book guides you step-by-step through a custom pathway to boost your power efficiently and effectively.
Strength Training Nutrition 101 offers a pragmatic guide to nutrition specifically designed for those serious about weightlifting. Marc McLean distills 20 years of coaching experience into a clear, manageable plan that demystifies conflicting diet advice and focuses on what truly supports muscle gain and fat loss. You’ll find practical principles like the "7 Golden Rules of Clean Eating" and advice on meal timing that make nutrition easier to follow alongside your training. This book is well-suited for anyone who wants to enhance their strength training results through sensible, sustainable eating habits.
What if everything you knew about strength training nutrition was oversimplified? Marc McLean, a seasoned personal training and nutrition coach with two decades of experience, cuts through the noise and confusion surrounding diets like keto and low-carb. You’ll gain clarity on balancing calories, macronutrients, and timing meals to support muscle growth and fat loss without giving up your favorite foods. Chapters like the “7 Golden Rules of Clean Eating” and sections on pre- and post-workout nutrition offer concrete guidance that anyone lifting weights can apply. If you want a straightforward nutrition plan that complements your workouts and sustains a healthy lifestyle, this book fits the bill.
P. D. Mangan, a microbiologist who teaches science-based health and fitness, praises this book as "the best book I've read on strength training." His endorsement carries weight because of his deep scientific background and commitment to evidence-based approaches, which align well with the book's research-backed methodology. Mangan’s appreciation hints at the program’s ability to deliver meaningful strength improvements with minimal time investment. Additionally, Rob Leathern, Facebook’s Director of Product, supports the book’s efficiency, highlighting its 12-minute weekly routine as an effective alternative to traditional workouts. Together, their insights suggest this book offers a refreshing, science-driven perspective for anyone serious about strength training.
Doug McGuff, M.D., owns the state-of-the-art personal training facility Ultimate-Exercise. He lectures on exercise science all over the world. John Little is a columnist for Ironman magazine and the innovator of three revolutionary training protocols, including Max Contraction Training. He and his wife, Teri, own Nautilus North Strength & Fitness Centre and have supervised more than 60,000 workouts.
John R. Little and Dr. Doug McGuff bring their extensive expertise in bodybuilding and fitness medicine to challenge traditional exercise norms with this focused, research-driven program. You’ll explore a scientifically validated high-intensity training method that promises to build muscle and increase strength efficiently, requiring just 12 minutes weekly. The book breaks down complex physiology and workout principles, emphasizing quality over quantity, and includes detailed protocols and case studies to guide your practice. This approach suits those looking to optimize time without sacrificing results, especially individuals interested in science-backed fitness strategies rather than conventional gym routines.
BookAuthority.Org, known for curating expert book recommendations, highlights this guide as "One of the best new exercise eBooks to read in 2020." Their endorsement matters in the fitness world, where clear and effective home workouts are essential. This recognition reflects how the book offers practical solutions that fit busy lives, especially when gym access is limited. Such a nod from a trusted source suggests that this book can help you confidently sculpt your body with dumbbells at home.
Dr. Monika Chopra is a senior Physiotherapist (Physical Therapist) and Therapeutic Yoga teacher practicing in the field of physiotherapy for past 15 years. She heads Dr. Chopra's Physiotherapy & Pain Clinic in Pune, India, where her team treats a variety of chronic pain, postural issues & sports injuries. Dr. Chopra believes in the mantra, 'Prevention is better than cure'. Through the Fitness Sutra series of books, she is promoting her passion for making our bodies nimble & strong for a lifetime of service. She is registered with Indian Association of Physiotherapists and specializes in Orthopaedic, Neuromuscular, Sports Physiotherapy, and Lifestyle related health issues.
When Dr. Monika Chopra, a seasoned physiotherapist with over 15 years of experience, developed this guide, her goal was to make strength training accessible without the constraints of gym schedules or equipment. You’ll explore more than 50 dumbbell exercises organized by muscle groups, complete with tips on proper form and movement to maximize results safely. The book doesn’t just focus on muscle building; it offers insights into joint flexibility, fat reduction, and even chronic pain management, making it a smart choice if you want a holistic yet practical approach to strength training at home. Its clear layout walks you through warm-ups, targeted workouts, and cool-downs, which makes it ideal if you want structured guidance without overwhelm.
Chris Snee, two-time Super Bowl champion and former New York Giants lineman, speaks from experience when he praises this book for advancing athlete strength development. His background in elite sports gives weight to his endorsement, highlighting how the NSCA’s science-backed training protocols elevate player performance. "The NSCA’s efforts have improved the athlete and football player," he notes, reflecting how the book’s insights extend beyond hockey to broader athletic conditioning. His endorsement underscores why you should consider this resource if you want training rooted in sports science and proven methods.
Two-time Super Bowl champion, New York Giants lineman
“The NSCA’s efforts have improved the athlete and football player. One look at Strength Training for Football and that becomes abundantly clear. Here is the latest in science, research, and programming you need to develop the strongest players on the field.” (from Amazon)
Kevin Neeld, PhD, CSCS, CPSS, RSCC*D, CMT, is the head performance coach for the Boston Bruins, overseeing the organization’s performance training program and sport science initiatives. He has worked as a strength and conditioning coach with the San Jose Sharks and USA Hockey’s women’s team. Neeld earned his PhD in human and sport performance from Rocky Mountain University, focusing on the relationship between workload and performance in elite hockey. He has published several articles in peer-reviewed journals and authored multiple books, including Ultimate Hockey Training and Speed Training for Hockey. Neeld is a certified strength and conditioning coach and performance scientist through the NSCA.
Unlike many strength training books that offer generic advice, this one zeroes in on hockey's unique physical demands with precision. Authored by experts including Kevin Neeld, head performance coach for the Boston Bruins, it delves into the biomechanics of hockey positions—goalie, forward, defense—providing you with protocols to assess strength, power, and agility tailored specifically for the ice. You’ll find detailed exercise variations, coaching tips, and 30 sample programs designed for every phase of the hockey season. If you’re serious about building hockey-specific strength and want to understand the muscle actions behind each movement, this book delivers exactly that depth without fluff.
Kyle Hunt is a competitive powerlifter, coach, and certified fitness trainer with a Bachelor of Science in exercise science. Drawing on his experience working with bodybuilders, physique athletes, and powerlifters, Hunt authored this book to offer beginners a clear path into bodybuilding. His approach combines detailed exercise walkthroughs with essential nutrition advice, making it accessible for those new to the gym but serious about building muscle and burning fat.
Kyle Hunt is a competitive powerlifter, coach, author, and owner of Hunt Fitness, a successful online fitness and nutrition coaching business. He has worked with hundreds of clients all aiming to be their best, including bodybuilders, physique athletes, powerlifters, and wrestlers. Hunt has a Bachelor of Science in exercise science from Fredonia State University and is a certified fitness trainer and nutrition specialist.
Kyle Hunt brings his extensive background as a competitive powerlifter and fitness coach to this guide designed specifically for beginners entering the world of bodybuilding. You’ll find a clear 12-week program that guides you through 55 exercises targeting all major muscle groups, complete with illustrated instructions to ensure proper form. Beyond workouts, Hunt addresses essential nutrition principles with macronutrient guidelines and meal prep tips that support muscle gain and fat loss. This book is tailored for those new to strength training who want a structured, approachable plan rather than overwhelming technical detail.
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Conclusion
Across these 10 books, a few themes emerge clearly: the fusion of science and practice, the importance of sport- or age-specific training, and the value of efficient, focused workouts. If you're new to strength training, Bodybuilding For Beginners offers a structured, accessible start. For athletes targeting performance, Strength Training for Baseball or Strength Training for Hockey provide specialized programs. Those pressed for time will find Body by Science's 12-minute weekly routine particularly appealing.
For rapid implementation, combining Dumbbell Training with Strength Training with Dumbbells can elevate your home workouts without needing a gym. And if you're looking to build muscle with a deep understanding of hypertrophy, The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 stands out as a definitive guide.
Alternatively, you can create a personalized Strength Training book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and train smarter, not just harder.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 if you want a science-backed, well-rounded program, or Bodybuilding For Beginners if you’re new to strength training. Both offer clear structures to build a solid foundation.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Strength Training?
Not at all. While some books like Bodybuilding For Beginners cater to novices, others include beginner-friendly sections or adaptable routines to suit all levels.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with foundational books like Bodybuilding For Beginners, then explore specialized titles such as Strength Training for Baseball or Dumbbell Training based on your goals and interests.
Can I skip around or do I need to read them cover to cover?
You can definitely skip around. Many books are designed as references with sections you can apply immediately without reading from start to finish.
Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?
Dumbbell Training and Strength Training with Dumbbells offer practical exercises and programs you can implement immediately, especially if you prefer home workouts.
How can personalized Strength Training books complement these expert recommendations?
Personalized books tailor expert knowledge to your unique needs, bridging theory and practice. They complement these titles by focusing on your goals, experience, and preferences. Learn more by creating your own Strength Training book.
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