Program Pro Blog
Top 10 Strength Training Books Every Trainer Should Own
Whether it's your first year as a trainer or have been coaching for decades, there's always more to learn. Strength training is a deep rabbit hole, which is why I have a stack of what I believe are the best books on programming that can transform your clients' results and turn you into a Program Pro (see what I did there?).
I've used the knowledge gained from these books to build out the Program Pro Certification, helping trainers cut their programming time in half while getting better client results and double the referrals.
And now I want to give you a list of the 10 best strength training books on programming that every trainer needs.
(Please note: I am not affiliated with any of these links. Zero. I make no money from these recommendations.)
1. Practical Programming for Strength Training and Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe
Programming can be a total clusterfuck, and Mark Rippetoe does a great job of simplifying the process. If you're new to strength training and want to get your feet wet in program design, start with these two classics.
2. Advances in Functional Training and New Functional Training for Sports by Mike Boyle
When Mike Boyle writes, I read. Again, I've bunched these two together since they go hand in hand. Like chocolate and peanut butter, or CrossFit and chiropractors (I kid, I kid...but not really).
Both of these books, along with the rest of Boyle's work, highlighted my ignorance as a young trainer.
Wait, you mean you don't need to squat with a barbell? You can load heavy single leg movements? Training shouldn't beat you up and make you feel like a total bag of shit?
I speak for a LOT of trainers when I say Mike Boyle sent me back to the drawing board and forced me to rethink my programming.
Check out his CFSC course. I've taken level 1 and 2 and they're great.
3. Secrets of Successful Program Design by Alwyn Cosgrove and Craig Rasmussen
Trainers wear a lot of hats. One minute you're coaching someone's deadlift technique, the next you're their therapist. If you have a ton of clients and programming stresses the fuck out of you, get this book fo sho. Alwyn Cosgrove and Craig Rasmussen provide a ton of great templates along with practical and applicable information on programming for busy fitness professionals.
4. Supertraining by Yuri Verkhoshansky and Mel Siff
No list of the best strength training books is complete without Supertraining. It's basically the strength training bible. Don't try to read it in one sitting, because you won't. If you do, your head will spontaneously combust from information overload. Don't do it. But DO get the book. It's essential. Like wearing deodorant or saying thank you when someone holds the door open for you.
5. Science and Practice of Strength Training by Vladimir Zatsiorsky
A classic by Vladimir Zatsiorsky. If I were to recommend ONE definitive book from this list, this would probably be it. It has everything you need as a foundational resource on strength training. Personally, one of my biggest takeaways was learning the three different methods of strength training.
6. Strength by Joe DeFranco and Jim Smith
I don't know about you, but I value someone's opinion more when they have been there and done that. Joe DeFranco and Jim Smith are two pioneers in the industry who speak from experience. This book is a must if you love lifting and you want to help your clients get strong af. Also, check out their CPPS certification course.
7. Ultimate MMA Conditioning by Joel Jamieson
I know, I know, I KNOW. This isn't exactly a book on strength training. But I would be remiss not to mention it as strength and conditioning are a match made in heaven. Like tea and biscuits, or CrossFit and herniated discs (ok, I'm done).
This isn't exactly an "easy" read, but Joel Jamieson is, in my opinion, the conditioning resource. He's that guy and has worked with the best of the best, including "Mighty Mouse" Demetrius Johnson and has an awesome certification course (again, I'm not affiliated with it...I've just taken it and think it's really good).
8. 5/3/1 by Jim Wendler
Simple, tried, and tested. If your clients ever hit a plateau, sometimes a simple and effective plan like Wendler's 5/3/1 is all they need. Get back to the basics, because the basics work.
9. The Muscle and Strength Pyramid - Training by Eric Helms
I only recently read this and really enjoyed it. I found the authors did a great job of taking complex topics (periodization among several others) and breaking them down into digestible laymen's terms for trainers to apply into their own programs. Definitely recommend.
10. Glute Lab - The Art and Science of Strength and Physique Training by Bret Contreras
I mean, let's face it. If you train women (who are more likely to invest in personal training), most of them want an ass. Before you rage, I know this is a generalization. But it's true. With that being said, go to the source and read all of Bret Contreras' work (especially his brainchild, Glute Lab).
Use Templates to Design Better Programs in Less Time
Programming is an essential skill for trainers. Without it you won't get results, referrals, or a reputation as the go-to trainer. Which is why I built the Program Pro Certification.
When it comes to programming - success leaves clues.
And templates allow you to build off of past successes.
Learn how to design better training programs in less time with my FREE 12-Week Plug and Play Program Template. Just enter your name and email for instant access.
