Review of The Ultimate Ride (Paperback)

I would assume that most people who buy this book do so because they're looking to self-train themselves and need some guidance on how to do so. That, at least, is the reason I looked into it. Unfortunately, the Ultimate Ride is inadequate for such a purpose.
Carmichael emphasizes that periodization is the best way to organize your training year. However, he gives you no advice on how to actually do this. He tells you its important, but doesn't get into the hows and whys of it. He gives examples of training months (4 total), but offers no insights on planning subsequent months, or on linking months together coherently. He tells you that you should gradually increase "workout stimulus" in a stairstep fashion, but doesn't describe how to actually do it.
This is the biggest problem with Carmichael's book- he tends to tell you that things are important, but doesn't bother describing how to put them into practice. As a cyclist you already KNOW that these things- training principles, cycling techniques, skills, etc.- are important- that's why you bought the book to begin with! What you need to know is HOW to improve them. This is where Carmichael fails.
I suspect this failure is intentional. The reviewer below who likened the book to an infomercial was spot-on. Carmichael is trying to sell his training program, CTS. The reason this book is so spotty is that he wants you to go out and join his program to get the answers and the training that this book leaves you hungry for. This is pretty shoddy business, if you ask me.
I give it two stars because there is a smattering of helpful information, such as nutritional concerns and some good workouts. But much of the book consists of stuff you already know, or is filled with "Ra-ra-you-can-do-it-you're-the-champion-110-percent!!!" pop sports psychology that you could get from any junior high gym class. Extremely disappointing, can't even recommend it for absolute novices.



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Review of Your First Triathlon (Paperback)

I did my first triathlon (sprint distance) in September after three months training, and I was lucky enough to have found this book towards the beginning of my training.Needless to say I am hooked and can't wait to do another one!!!The book did an amazing job of preparing me by arming me with the information I needed to train properly, learn new sports (I had never biked or swam seriously before), eat right, and avoid injury, and yet avoided getting too "hard core" (when you do your first triathlon you keep wondering whether or not you're crazy).Joe keeps it manageable.There is a scary overwhelmed feeling you can get when you start reading about some of the crazy training schedules and techniques out there -- and he really clears through all that and gets to the essentials you need to know to make it through your training and cross the finish line.For example, his race day prep chapter really helped me visualize what to expect on the big day.Also, I really liked his approach to gear -- you can really get sucked into buying a bunch of stuff -- and he emphasizes ways to work with stuff you already have (ex: your old mountain bike) until you're more experienced and can better select the right gear to invest in.Overall, I really liked his fun-first emphasis, while providing what is clearly well-researched and high quality information.Two thumbs up!

Product Description
Every year thousands of people decide to take on a sprint triathlon for the first time. Now USA Triathlon and USA Cycling certified coach Joe Friel provides a complete guide to finishing that first triathlon. The same principles and training methodology that the pros and committed triathletes rely on are presented here in language that a beginner can easily understand. Friel maps a course to prepare for a sprint-distance triathlon in 12 weeks, with five hours of training each week, plenty of rest, and the beginnings of a lifestyle marked by a commitment to health and fitness and personal growth. Your First Triathlon provides the training plans, workouts, checklists, and instruction that first-timers need. Joe Friel is known for his thorough approach and with his help, what may have begun as a challenge to complete a sprint triathlon will grow into a love for this demanding yet rewarding sport.

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Review of NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training (Hardcover)

Although I miss the seven phase OPT model of old, the new paradigm has streamlined the structure to progress athletes through the process more efficiently.The illustrations are an upgrade, however there are fewer sample exercises to use.I recommend the NASM program to any serious trainer.This isn't "gym science"; everything in this book is based on years of research in human biomechanics, physiology, and kinesiology.The information you absorb from these pages will make you question why you ever relied on news stand fitness magazines for your workouts.NASM OPT training isn't a fad, a quick-fix, or a unrealistic promise.It is hard work and discipline that is highly effective for those that commit.

In addition to the text and CPT certification, continuing education courses and workshops will help you to truly understand the material with hands on demonstrations and professional instructors to answer your questions.Trainers get certified...real trainers get NASM certified.

Product Description
Developed by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), this book is designed to help people prepare for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Certification exam or learn the basic principles of personal training using NASM's Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model. The OPT model presents NASM's protocols for building stabilization, strength, and power. More than 600 full-color illustrations and photographs demonstrate concepts and techniques. Exercise color coding maps each exercise movement to a specific phase on the OPT model. Exercise boxes demonstrate core exercises and detail the necessary preparation and movement. Other features include research notes, memory joggers, safety tips, and review questions.

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Review of Lore of Running - 4th (Paperback)

If you have a top notch personal coach who tends all your needs, you don't need any book to improve your running.If you are like me who have the passion for serious running, enjoy reading and analytical thinking while having a full-time job + other professional activities, this book is a must-have.I got one for me and two as presents to my friends.Using this book as the major reference to coach and heal myself, I qualified for the Boston Marathon at my marathon debut after about one year's training, took 10 minutes off in another year and I am on my way to beat NYC marathon qualification time for guaranteed number.Running programs are everywhere."Individualizing" has become a cliché. Understanding the fundamental mechanisms and principles behind body and training is essential to derive a healthy and effective training program that adapts to the body's response. Lore of Running distinguishes itself from other running books by offering a large volume of solid evidence to support the principles concluded by the author.The readers have the freedom of utilizing these materials, often presented in interesting ways such as stories about famous runners, to make their own conclusions.I feel like having a very pleasant academic discussion with the author who is convincing, but not dictating while reading the book.The background of the author - ultra-marathon athlete, researcher and practicing sports MD is perfect for writing such comprehensive running book.
This book is certainly not a quick recipe.It takes time to digest the material.If you enjoy reading, it is a plus.I have read some section multiple times.Another very good running book that takes much less time to read is Daniels' Running Formula by Jack Daniels that is geared more toward elite runners, but still very helpful for midpack runners like me.

Product Description
Now revised, expanded and updated, Lore of Running gives you incomparable detail on physiology, training, racing, injuries, world-class athletes, and races.
Author Tim Noakes blends the expertise of a physician and research scientist with the passion of a dedicated runner to answer the most pressing questions for those who are serious about the sport:

• How your body systems respond to training, the effects of different training methods, how to detect and avoid overtraining, and genetic versus trainable potential
• How to train for the 10K up through ultramarathon with detailed programs from Noakes and several leading running experts
• How to prevent and treat injuries, increase your strength and flexibility, and use proper nutrition for weight control and maximum performance

You'll also find a candid analysis of supplements and ergogenic effects and training aids. The book includes new interviews with 10 world-class runners who share their secrets to success and longevity in the sport. Features on legendary figures and events in running history provide fascinating insights.
And that's just scratching the surface. Lore of Running is not only the biggest and best running publication on the planet. It's the one book every runner should own.

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Review of Natural Bodybuilding (Paperback)

I use to bodybuild years ago and was discouraged by the drug use that was obviously there.After ten years I'm thinking about doing something I never quite accomplished; enter a show.I have a lot of books on the subject and I've read a lot through the years.I was so happy to see a book that was all about natural bodybuilding but I was still very skeptical.I've heard and read the term, "natural" from a lot of people but few have delivered.This book is clear and to the point and provides useful comparisons on the differences of natural bodybuilders to drug users.It explains how you have different limits than someone that uses enhancers.
I have a few books that I refer to whenever I'm trying to come up with a new program or if I just want to refresh my memory.When I read a book like this I will highlight certain key points.Things that I know will be good to look at when I go through the book again as a reference.This book is now filled with my highlights.
The paper quality is nice, which also makes for a good ref. book.

This book will be my guide for accomplishing my goal of a show.

Great book for any BodyBuilder!


Product Description
Get better and bigger results than you ever thought possible without using illicit or unhealthy drugs. Natural Bodybuilding provides the best training and nutrition prescription available for gaining mass and defining muscles the healthy way.
Detailed programs and workouts, specific techniques for particular lifts, proven dietary guidelines, a weeklong precompetition plan, and true inspirational success stories will help you reach your potential. See what great results you can achieve without incurring the expense and physical toll of a chemically crafted body.
IRONMAN columnist and champion natural bodybuilder John Hansen covers every facet, from the gym to the training table to the competitive stage. Get bigger the right way, with Natural Bodybuilding.

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Review of Advanced Marathoning - 2nd Edition (Paperback)

Advanced Marathoning (AM) by Olympian Pete Pfitzinger and former Running Times editor Scott Douglas is packed with high-value training advice that should benefit every serious runner.AM is not without its problems, but none are serious enough to detract from a work that is well written and philosophically sound.

From the beginning Pfitzinger and Douglas make clear the basis of their views: "Advanced marathoning has to be based on more than common sense and running folklore.Advanced Marathoning, therefore, is based on exercise science."This declaration puts Pfitzinger and Douglas in the camp of exercise physiology, and, quite obviously, separates them from mainstream running authors. It's also a mild reproof of the mainstream and their penchant for ignoring the rapidly expanding world of exercise science.

Squarely on the side of science, AM begins by listing lactate threshold (LT), maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max), running economy, glycogen storage, recovery time, and muscle fiber composition as the key physiological variables that govern performance.The authors' claim, quite correctly, that "lactate threshold (LT) is the most important physiological variable for endurance athletes."They go on to say that "Contrary to many runner' beliefs, high levels of lactate (lactic acid) in your muscles aren't what make you sore for several days after a hard effort."Indeed, lactate, once considered metabolic waste, is "...produced by your muscles and is used by your muscles, heart, liver, and kidneys."Since the marathon is run at a speed slightly below LT, marathoners have a vested interest in raising LT.AM tells us how:"The most effective way to improve lactate threshold is to run at your current lactate threshold pace or a few seconds per mile faster, either as one continuous run (tempo run) or as a long interval session at your lactate threshold pace...."It's here that I have to quibble.Tempo runs are good LT workouts, however, recent research (Rusko, Billat, Anderson, and others) indicates that intervals at 3-K to 10-K speed with fairly long recoveries are better.Tempo runs definitely have their place, but not to the exclusion of faster LT sessions.

As for the other key variables, maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max), not as important as LT and only a rough predictor of performance, is also worth some attention.Pfitzinger and Douglas are right on the money again when they report "The most effective running intensity to improve VO2max is 95% to 100% of VO2max."This speed is normally close to 5-K pace.They wisely recommend work intervals of two to six minutes with rest intervals of equal length or slightly less.This is the standard, scientifically sound VO2max workout.However, it's interesting that velocity at VO2max (vVO2max) is not mentioned as another critical training intensity.Daniels, widely quoted in AM, has much to say about vVO2max, yet AM is silent on the subject.If recent work by Billat is correct, vVO2max could be a training intensity equal in importance to LT.This omission could be due to the long lead-time (sometimes 18 months) in getting a book published.AM may have gone to press before Billat's research was available.

In addition to physiological variables, Pfitzinger and Douglas have plenty to say about shoes, tapering, fluid replacement, nutrition, pre-race activities, post-race recovery, heart rate, periodization and a bevy other topics.They also present three very reasonable training schedules based on low, medium, and high mileage. Their only serious error regards altitude training.AM tells us that "Other than by training at altitude...the hemoglobin concentration of your blood won't increase with training."It should be well understood by now that living at altitude, not training at altitude, confers the benefit--hence the live high/train low protocol.Scores of endurance athletes are training at or near sea level by day and sleeping in hypoxic tents at night.Rusko (1998) has even constructed an altitude house.(See Gamow, Snell, Stine, Poronnet, Rusko, and Levine.)

All things considered, AM is well written, fairly well researched, and aside from an obvious typo in the first sentence of the third paragraph on page 18, also well edited.AM's puny bibliography was slightly disappointing.One would expect several pages of references in a work of this size.Nevertheless, AM is a worthy treatise, unfettered by the "folklore" so popular with the commercial running establishment.I give it a solid four stars and recommend it to every serious marathoner.



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Review of Power Eating, Third Edition (Paperback)

I discovered this wonderful book at a fitness exposition, and have been preaching it's usefulness ever since.I am a personal trainer and experienced weight lifter.After reading this book, I understand my bodyso much more. Do you know someone who skips meals to lose weight, but neverreaches their goal?This book will easily explain why and teach them theproper way to lose weight without skipping meals. It's easy to watch the"perfect" people at the gym and copy their moves to improve yourworkout.The essential component you can't see is the person's eatinghabits.The science of proper nutrition is key to obtaining a healthy bodyAND a healthy mind.It's truly amazing how you can manipulate your bodyand mind just by changing your eating habits -- this does NOT mean dieting! This book is clearly and simply written to help anyone understand theimpact of food, supplements and exercise on your body's metabolism.Thekey word here being "anyone".Whether you're a body-builder,vegetarian, person trying to lose or gain weight, or just the average Joe,Power Eating will give you the basics of what you need to reach your goals.I recommend this book to anyone frustrated with the way they feel.Don'ttry a new "diet".Read this book, understand how your bodyworks, then go from there.



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Review of Morning Strength Workouts (Morning Workouts) (Paperback)

This is an excellent rendition on the rudiments of working out and
eating properly to support the exercise regimen. For instance, free
weights are easy to manipulate and the body contour easily adjusts.
Stability balls challenge the neuromuscular system. The ball may be
pushed up/down or diagonally. Hanging leg raises strengthen the
shoulder, forearm and grip. A strength of the work is that the
author depicts the exercises in a series of drawings. The acquisition
would be invaluable for anyone embarking on an intensive exercise
program.


Product Description
A strength training routine to fit every morning schedule! You know that exercising in the morning is the best way to exercise regularly, manage weight, and provide a strong start to your day. Morning Strength Workouts describes how to maximize the benefits of your early-day exercises no matter what your energy level is or how much time you have to spare.
Morning Strength Workouts provides 20-, 30-, 45-, and 60-minute workouts designed for endurance, size, strength, power, and general fitness so that you can choose the right workout based on your fitness goals and available time. Whether you're using free weights or machines, exercising at the gym or at home, this book allows you to customize workouts to achieve your individual strength goals. And, with information on nutrition, injury prevention, and program design, you can be assured that every morning session will be productive. With Morning Strength Workouts, you will never tire of your morning routine again.
Morning Strength Workouts is part of the Morning Workout series, books designed to help you get in tune with both mind and body, stay motivated, and improve your morning exercise experience.

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Review of The American Yoga Association's Yoga For Sports: The Secret to Limitless Performance [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

As of 9.04, I've read over 15 books on Yoga.This book offers nothing unique or new for athletes.In fact, it's profoundly clueless in this area.Weightlifters, runners, and other serious athletes have much to gain from practicing Yoga.I recommend just picking up either Hatha Yoga illustrated or a book by Baron Baptiste or Rodney Yee.

Product Description
Peak performance--when you feel as if you can run faster, jump higher, and last longer than ever before. When you feel light as air, time stands still, and all your senses feel sharp and clear. You know you are going to succeed. You can feel it throughout your body and deep within your inner being. Most athletes have experienced this limitless feeling at some time in their careers, but few believe they can do anything to elicit or enhance the experience. In Yoga for Sports, you will find out how the basic techniques of Yoga, combined with a new way of thinking that calls upon the strength of the inner body, can help you achieve your dreams. The endless source of power and strength is always there; you need only learn how to recognize it and welcome it. When you succeed, you will experience sport in a whole new way. Whether you are a serious athlete or weekend warrior, in this book you will find proven techniques to enhance your physical performance and your enjoyment of your sport. Step-by-step instruction through a comprehensive routine of Yoga exercise, including breathing, meditation, visualization techniques, and various sport-specific suggestions, will help you warm up properly and avoid injury. This book is your key to ultimate strength, endurance, and flexibility for a more high performance athletic experience. Alice Christensen, founder and executive director of the American Yoga Association, is one of the world's foremost Yoga teachers. Her many previously published books and tapes demonstrate her unique ability to translate the subtle messages and techniques of Yoga into terms that anyone can understand and benefit from.

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Review of Pump Energy Food, The (Paperback)

Having an extremely busy schedule as a personal fitness instructor, it limits my time and choices I have for food, and since I'm in manhattan quite often, I usually stop at the pump to get a QUICK yet HEALTHY, and I must say, TASTY MEAL. Now when I crave those meals at home, I can make them myself!

You know what? 3 simple words to discribe this book, which are very important qualities for ANY BOOK to me, inexpensive, great information, and it's cheery!



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