Book Review: Weight Training for Triathlon - The Ultimate Guide by Ben Greenfield

Weight Training for Triathlon - The Ultimate Guide by Ben Greenfield is an important contribution to physical training. The book covers muscle mass issues, injuries, nutrition, ointments, supplements and stretches in considerable detail, with illustrative pictures throughout. There is an extensive foreword by Dr.David Minkoff MD. The foreword covers the many benefits of an exercise regimen, good nutrition and supplements for everyone.

Ben Greenfield indicates that muscle mass must be manageable while providing strength and power, particularly for activities such as cycling. Classic injuries to areas such as back, neck, shoulder, knees, hamstrings and ankles are explained, with the applicable preventive strategies.

The whole area of plyometrics is covered. In plyometric movements, muscles are loaded and then contracted in rapid sequence. The strength, elasticity and innervation of muscles and surrounding tissues are employed to jump higher, throw farther, or hit harder depending upon the training goal.

Plyometrics is used to increase the speed or force of muscular contractions, providing explosiveness for a variety of activities. The benefits include injury prevention, power development and improved running performance. With plyometrics, athletes can run at the same speed while consuming less oxygen.

The whole area of nutrition is integrated into the workout for athletes. Sample foods include whey protein, yams, dried nuts and quinoa. Supplements include Vitamin C, glucosamine chondroitin for cartilage repair, Omega 3, Vitamin D, Coenzyme Q 10, probiotics and fresh fruits like berries.

Information on ointments and body rubs is included: arnica rubs, Tiger Balm, magnesium clay (magnesium oil) and others. Modalities like acupuncture are cited. The author has a whole section on static stretches, core exercises, the exercise ball, overhead press and curls. Extensive pictures set forth the correct positioning for performing these exercises during the standard workout regimen.

Weight Training for Triathlon -The Ultimate Guide is a wonderful resource for trainers and athletes in a variety of sports. An important feature is that the body physiology is integrated into the workout regimen.

The presentation is highly organized and easy to understand. The cost is modest.

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Article Author: Dr Joseph S Maresca

I've taught approx. 34 sections of collegiate courses, including computer applications, college algebra, collegiate statistics, law, accounting, finance and economics. The experience includes service as a Board Director on the CPA Journal and editor of the

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