The Barbell Prescription: Strength Training for Life After 40

There are many reasons why I can recommend the book, “The Barbell Prescription, Strength Training for Life After 40”. I suggest that it should be read by anyone, man or woman, over 40. I myself have purchased both the paperback and Kindle versions. Here are a few of the reasons why I recommend this book. 1. Experience: The two authors, Sullivan and Baker, have years of experience of coaching the Masters Athlete and this adds to the credibility of this text. I must ask who better to write a book about the barbell prescription topic for Masters then two individuals with the combined credentials and experience that Sullivan/Baker have. They can take a complex topic and make it easy to understand and digest. Too often books written for and about the aging population are written at such a high level that you need a Ph.D. to decipher. This book is deep but the authors write it in a way that anyone can understand at first reading. This book with its layout and progression through the topic, with understandable descriptions, will allow the reader to quickly unlock the mystery of their aging bodies. It explains why barbell training is vital to be able to live a healthy life after 40. 2. “Sick Aging Phenotype” explained: This new term as it is defined throughout and the book makes sense. The example of Will and Phil in Chapter 1 about two identical twins living very different lives is a shrewd description of what the authors mean by this term and why they believe strongly in the Barbell Prescription topic for aging adults. This chapter lays out the groundwork for the authors’ premise of barbell training to combat the aging process and what it takes to counteract the previous sickly outcome for most people over the age of 40. 3. The book concentrates on the Masters athlete: Most barbell training books are aimed at the younger athlete. The Masters concentration allows the authors to make the differences clear about how an athlete over 40 can and should use barbell training as part of their regimen to counteract the aging process. Thus, Masters can live a healthier life as they age. The authors explain why, "Masters are volume-sensitive, intensity-dependent", why this is different than in younger lifters, and how to work with this principle in the Master athletes own training. 4. The authors provide a clear explanation of the building blocks of a training program: The explanations about the Novice versus Intermediate programming is concise. Sullivan/Baker give complete descriptions of the Stress-Recovery-Adaptation cycle. Included in this description are whole chapters on each part of the cycle. They provide clear examples and explanation of training programs for the many different ages what constitute an athlete over 40. The purpose of this book is to present the information needed for the aging population to live by the premise that “Healthy aging is Strong aging”. The authors deliver on that purpose. If someone is looking specifically for a how-to book on how to perform the barbell movements, that is not the purpose of this book. As Sullivan/Baker state in the Introduction and Chapter 7- Elementary Iron, “This book is not intended to instruct the reader in the performance of barbell exercises.” It correctly points to, Starting Strength Basic Barbell Training 3rd edition, for performance and instruction of the barbell movements. Also in Chapter 14 – Programming, they state that, “This is not a cookbook. Read everything before you try anything.” I can say for myself that by reading this book I have been able to take advantage of all the information the authors provide. It was and is both helpful and eye-opening for myself and will be to others. The book makes it clear that being a Masters athlete can help one reach their full “genetic potential”, no matter what their age. As I stated earlier I recommend this book.

By the time I finished this book, I understood why a 71 year old grandmother who can't walk will benefit more from barbells than a 17 year old football player. It was kind of astonishing. And I believed every word of it. The authors make a very convincing case that basic strength training – yes, the type of strength training that 17 year old athletes do – is the most effective medicine possible for improving your quality of life as you age. This completely reverses the stereotypical idea that lifting weight is only for young guys who are already big and trying to get bigger. The most logical reason to train for strength is in fact to overcome weakness. We lose strength as we age. And then life begins to suck. I mean … it makes a lot of sense. Now, the guy on the cover looks like he's been working out for years, but don't let that fool you. This is not aimed at the aging body builder. This is a book for beginners who happen to be above the age of 40. It lays out a sensible plan for how just about anyone can leverage methods that have traditionally been applied to gaining athletic performance to improve their own health, no matter their age. I don't usually write reviews and tend to avoid putting anything at all on the internet as a general practice. But the thing that really makes me want to recommend this book is that it is written with a lot of heart and sensitivity to the physical difficulties the aging population faces. This is not your standard weightlifting manual (though the authors both regularly produce high quality material on the subject.) This book is for ordinary people who want to keep – or regain – their independence, dignity, and health as they age. I figure that's worth five stars.

As an older lifter, currently 74 years old, finding the three books, Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe, Practical Programming by Mark Rippetoe and Andy Baker, and The Barbell Prescription by Dr. Sullivan and Andy Baker, changed my approach to strength training. The authors present the science and mechanics of performing barbell lifts in a safe and efficient manner. The books should be read and studied thoroughly. They are a must have resource for lifters of all ages that want to build strength to improve their quality of life. They are also must have resources for coaches and trainers that are focused on getting results for their clients. The Barbell Prescription focuses on the science and programs for Athletes of Aging, those beyond 40, 60, and 70. It is never to late to start strength training and the Barbell Prescription provides the road map to safe acquisition of the strength needed to live a self reliant and productive life as the years accumulate. Following the guidance in these books from Rippetoe, Baker, and Sullivan I have fully recovered from crippling motorcycle crash injuries and have achieved remarkable strength levels as measured by my progress with the barbell lifts. I have purchased multiple copies and have gifted them to friends and family so that they can have the information needed to achieve increased strength also. Buy the Books! Do the program!

This is a fairly large, information dense book. A collaboration between a strength training coach and a doctor, it is a unique blend of training advice for strength training. This publication is less dogmatic than Mark Rippitoe's Starting Strength, and is geared toward the mature novice and intermediate trainer. Dr. Sullivan allows his wry sense of humor to sneak in occasionally, and it is refreshing to see that a doctor actually DOES what he prescribes for others.

Pour l'initiation à la musculation, parfait et très complet. Si seulement ça existait en français, ce serait encore mieux et indispensable pour commencer ou continuer l'exerce physique.

In perfect condition

Este es un libro imprescindible para todos aquellos de más de 50 años que desean iniciar con el levantamiento de pesas, especialmente si se enfocan en su salud, longevidad y calidad de vida. El contenido es de gran calidad y se encuentra escrito por un médico, por lo que la información se sustenta en literatura científica, artículos y evidencia. Altamente recomendable.

The Barbell Prescription: Strength Training for Life After 40" is an empowering masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of conventional fitness literature. Dr. Jonathon M. Sullivan and Andy Baker have crafted a definitive guide to strength training, specifically tailored for individuals navigating the journey of life beyond 40. Their profound insights, combined with practical wisdom, make this book an indispensable companion for anyone seeking to reclaim their vitality and redefine their physical potential. From the outset, the authors captivate readers with their compelling arguments for the significance of strength training as a cornerstone of lifelong health. With meticulous research and expertise, they dispel age-related misconceptions, instilling hope and inspiring readers to embrace a path of strength and resilience. Sullivan and Baker's emphasis on barbell training sets this book apart from the crowded fitness landscape. The authors elucidate the transformative power of compound movements, underscoring the efficacy of barbell exercises in stimulating muscle growth, improving bone density, and promoting functional mobility. Their focus on proper technique is admirable, ensuring that readers embark on their strength journey with confidence and safety. Beyond the physical aspects, "The Barbell Prescription" delves into the profound mental and emotional benefits of strength training. Readers are enlightened about the positive impact of training on mental well-being, self-esteem, and stress reduction—truly a holistic approach to a fulfilling life. Navigating the book, one encounters a wealth of knowledge on programming and progression. The authors provide comprehensive guidance on structuring personalized training plans, accommodating individual needs, and embracing continuous growth. This blueprint for success is invaluable for novices and seasoned lifters alike, transcending age or experience. What sets "The Barbell Prescription" apart is its accessibility and inclusivity. Written with clarity and warmth, the book fosters a sense of camaraderie and encouragement. Inspirational real-life stories amplify this connection, proving that strength training knows no age limit, and transformations are within everyone's grasp. Throughout the pages, the authors address and debunk common myths, presenting evidence-based perspectives. This scientific approach ensures credibility and instills confidence in readers seeking to optimize their training journey. In conclusion, "The Barbell Prescription" is not just a book—it's a transformative experience. Sullivan and Baker have crafted a masterpiece that uplifts, educates, and empowers. Through their expertise and genuine passion for well-being, they illuminate a path to longevity and vitality that readers can embrace and savor. For those seeking a life enriched by strength, resilience, and meaning, this book is an unmissable gem—a testament to the power of the barbell and the boundless potential within us all.

Per me che ho più di 60 anni libro con ottime procedure e suggerimenti. Valido anche per i piú giovani con gli aggiustamenti del caso