Product Description
Written by Bill Pearl, a four-time Mr. Universe, and widely regarded as the best general book on weight training available, Getting Stronger contains specific strength training programs for 21 sports as well as general conditioning. The book includes more than 100 one-page fitness programs that can be performed by simply following the illustrations, while each lift is keyed to a section with specific instructions for that lift. The 20th anniversary edition includes new sections on nutrition, supplements, injury rehabilitation, stretching, and equipment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (62)

did not receive the item we paid for
It has been over a month since we ordered and paid for this book and we have not yet received it.Taking the time to get this resolved with customer service is such an inconvenience.I won't be ordering from Amazon again anytime soon.

Another must have reference
I bought this book along with Bill Pearls' "Keys to the Inner Universe", and I am glad I did.Primarily, I wanted it included with all my recent purchases of some of the major books on budybuilding to have in my personal reference library.The attributes I can extoll are that it has alot of basic excercises easily line drawn and explained for basic barbell/dumbell usage which is important to me since I live and work too far from any "gyms" to make use of them, along with sport specific exercises, and what is really important for folks, the all important stretches.So many folks could have thwarted lifelong injuries if they would carefully study, this book for instance, I have talked to many who have learned lessons the hard way.I specifically would like to point out the stretching exercises shown in this book, nothing I hadn't learned while serving in the armed forces, but there are folks who don't have any training in stretching, which is essential to avoiding injuries.
Besides all the benefits of the book, hey, its'a a Bill Pearl specific book, and a good companian to have with his Encyclopedia "Keys to the Inner Universe".

AmAZING Book!!!
I take this book to the gym with me every time I go - not just copies of certain pages, but I lug the whole damn thing with me, LOL!That's how useful a reference it is!I was looking for a book that would have a variety of exercises for the chest and abs, especially lower abs, as those are hard to get to (for me, anyway).Holy wow, this book completely exceeded my expectations!

There are SO many different exercises for each muscle group - the book is well-organized, providing clear drawings rather than photos (I find these more helpful than photographs, actually) and directions for each exercise.While some of the exercises I couldn't do when I first bought this book a year ago, it was still a good purchase because I learned the CORRECT way to lift weights right from the start.The gym I go to actually uses the drawings from this book to illustrate different exercises on the back of each member's progress sheet.When I recognized the drawings as being from this book, I had to check it out.I'm so glad I did!

This book does just what it says, and more.It's excellent information for both men and women.Nothing trendy, no gimmicks, just good solid information.

One more thing- in addition to the instructions on exercises, there are also programs for just about everyone - from the beginning exerciser to the advanced, to those who would like become competitive bodybuilders, to athletes (including programs for everyone from gymnasts to football players!)

Also are very informative chapters on nutrition, vitamins & supplements, aerobic exercise, injuries (including an exercise program for recooperating!) and much, much, more.The chapter on the history of bodybuilding was interesting as well.

Now, I'm even thinking of getting Mr. Pearl's 'Keys to the Inner Universe', that's how impressed I am with this book :)

So in summary, if you're looking for a good book on weight lifting, no matter what your fitness level, GET THIS BOOK!

Unsurpassed for Exercise Diversity
As I have been educating myself more on Strength Training and Fitness, I have read quite a few books. The high marks and reviews that Bill Pearl's Getting Stronger are without a doubt warranted. The book is written in a detailed, comprehensive , yet very easy to follow manner. There is a huge glossary of different exercises for every body part, which will give you plenty of options to keep your workouts fresh and new, which will further stimulate hypertrophy. Also, another selling point is that this is not just a Bodybuilding Reference, it contains numerous Sport specific workouts..There is detailed workouts for 21 different sports, which is great for cross training, and getting an idea of how athletes from different sports train. Also, there is workouts with only Dumbbells,Machines, Electronic,as well as Free weights.

Truthfully, this book is the real deal. Even though it has been almost 25 years since it first graced the shelves, the information is timeless. I spent less than four dollars(including shipping and handing!)and it couldn't have been spent any better.

Easy to read and understand
I found that this book was exactly what I was looking for. It gave me new ideas for my workout routine. The pictures are easy to follow. I love how it has the different sections for various athletes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Personal
For those that are interested in women bodybuilders this is a great book. Though for me it was a personal choice. I went to school with Laura for threes years back in the the late 60,s. Sadly we lost touch with each other, so when I read that she had passed away I wanted to get this book about her. She was my best friend, and I will love and miss her. I am truly sorry that I was not close to her at the end. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Great Book!
The book is a great reference for the right foods to eat for weight training. You should buy it if you are interested! ... Read more

Product Description

In recent years the ‘body’ has become one of the most popular areas of study in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Bodybuilding, in particular, continues to be of interest to scholars of gender, media, film, cultural studies and sociology. However, there is surprisingly little scholarship available on contemporary bodybuilding. Critical Readings in Bodybuilding is the first collection to address the contemporary practice of bodybuilding, especially the way in which the activity has become increasingly more extreme and to consider much neglected debates of gender, eroticism, and sexuality related to the activity. Featuring the leading scholars of bodybuilding and the body as well as emerging voices, this volume will be a key addition to the fields of Sociology, Sport Studies, and Cultural Studies.

Product Description
This is a two-stapled spine publication, the soft covers being off-white card stock with black and red lettering 8" x 10.75". B/W photos of bodybuilders are scattered throughout the text. About 48 pages contain information and b/w illus. on all aspects of strengthening your abdominal muscles. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great reference book
A wonderful reference book on bodybuilding techniques for young teens. It covers aerobics, muscle strengthening, limber movement, weightlifting, nutrition and more. 140 pages of practical text, illustrations, charts, photos and diagrams. ... Read more

Product Description
The embodiment of personal responsibility, discipline, and commitment to a life built on the foundations of optimal wellbeing and impressive corporal aesthetics. Mario Strong's book, Reflections of a Natural Bodybuilder, tells the story of a man's life, his trials, disappointments and inspiring successes in the pursuit of becoming a champion in the field of bodybuilding, a sport that later had to have "Natural" preface the name to differentiate it from the drugs that came to soften its chiseled and Herculean image. Reflections of a Natural Bodybuilder is a human-interest story about one man's insight into the world of bodybuilding. This compelling book explores how Staten Island bodybuilder Mario Strong implements his passion for natural bodybuilding to achieve his quest of health, strength, and longevity. However, his path towards accomplishing these goals is seen not without obstacles as he chronicles his unique history in a sport filled with nostalgia, hope, humor, ego, deceit, pharmaceuticals, pain, and death.Reflections of a Natural Bodybuilder also features tons of beneficial advice. From muscle-building workouts to fat-loss programs, you will find its in-depth natural bodybuilding guide not only informative, but also entertaining and inspirational as well. This fully illustrated book is a must read for the layman and athlete alike! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Blast From the Past
I received the book on Tuesday afternoon and immediately began reading it. By early Wednesday evening, I had finished the book cover to cover. There are several reasons why I was easily able to go through 400+ pages in little over a day.
The biggest reason is the author's writing style. While not complex the words flow very easily when read - so much so that it seems as if you aren't reading the author's words, but instead that he is sitting with you and is verbally telling you his story. His story of family, childhood, ups and downs but most importantly he shares his wealth of knowledge accumulated over four plus decades of first hand experience in the trenches of bodybuilding, nutrition and a healthy way of life.
For full disclosure, I was a member of Mario Strong's Staten Island Bodybuilding Club for several years in the late '70's and early '80's. So, while I was familiar with some of the stories he shared in Volume I as well as some of the author's fundamental positions on nutrition, fitness and overall health and well being, it was of great interest for me to read what I was familiar with for it was nostalgic and/or re-cemented that knowledge. Additionally to be exposed for the first time to some of the experiences of the author's last two decades and what he has fine tuned over that period of time was crystallizing.
However, on the downside - where was the chapter about me? ;-)
To be serious, a must read for anyone at any level of interest in fitness, nutrition and overall health and well-being!

THINK BIG - TRAIN BIG - GET BIG
As a former student of Mario Strong's Staten Island Bodybuilding Club, I looked forward to reading his new book Reflections of a Natural Bodybuilder. Mario's expertise is in the field of creating competitive physiques the old-fashioned way. Through perseverance, attitude, hard training, and strict nutrition. That is his style and this book brings his beliefs to the reader like none other.
If you want to learn how to get BIG and STRONG the right way, this book is for you. The training principles have proven themselves by the many trophies they helped to achieve. The nutrition advice is innovative and based on what the author has practiced for decades. The concepts and results speak for themselves.
The best part of this book is that it is about DRUG-FREE bodybuilding. Real bodybuilding - true muscle - lasting health - natural bodybuilding - by someone who lives the words he writes.
If you have a teenager looking to start weight training, this book would be a great idea to get him started on the right path towards building a strong and lasting foundation.

MOTIVATIONAL, INSPIRATIONAL, AND ENLIGHTENING
I bought this book for my husband as a birthday gift. When it arrived, he opened the package and began to read it. Several hours later, he was still absorbed in its pages and I asked him what was so interesting. He replied, "This book is a story about an underdog who goes against the grain to not only better himself, but the world around him."
When my husband put the book down and left for the gym, I picked it up and began to read. I too found myself absorbed. Reflections of a Natural Bodybuilder is similar to the Rocky Balboa films. It is about one man who challenges the status quo to achieve a quest. This book may not be for everyone. However, for those who can understand its message it is must have. I highly recommend it.

makes you rethink your lifestyles
The book as written, including the family portions, make for a very enjoyable as well as informative read.Mario Strong presents his lifestyle in such a way that it seems like anyone who is really dedicated to change can accomplish their goals. It's also a pleasure that it is an easy read; you don't need to look up fancy terms to understand what he is presenting.For those who are searching for a natural way of living in a sometimes very un-natural world, and not miss out on real daily living, this book is highly recommended.

Toxin Free for Life
As a hard core body builder I spent years competing with the best in the gym and out.During the course of my training I tried almost everything to increase my mass and enhance my physique.After using steroids and seeing the results I did not believe I would be able to reach my goals without them.I simply configured them into my lifestyle as part of my diet.Today I know differently, unfortunately my lesson learned, like most, came the hard way; the end result however was learning how to achieve maximum results naturally.I found this book insightful and truly relevant to my interest.It showed me how there are others out there who realize that good things do come naturally with hard work and dedication.Not only am I recommending this book for others, I am also purchasing more copies as gifts for those I feel will be inspired by it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

bodybuilding an illustrated history
a brilliant book on the history of bodybuilding,it shows rare pyshique photos of bodybuilding greats,rare insights into successful bodybuilders routines,interviews and brief histories of hundreds of pyshique starsbetween the years 1800"s to 1980"s.Its a collectors edition.. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Very readable for a period I do not generally appreciate
I was surpised at how interesting this book is - the topic could not be further away from the period of art I usually study. I enjoyed it thoroughly. ... Read more

Product Description
The Pan-G Non-Surgical Face Lift is truly amazing. It improves overall skin texture by refining skin pores, spider veins, redness, skin discoloration, age spots and minimizes wrinkles. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

the pan-g non-surgical face lift
I personally agree with the other two reviews. What a rip off!!!Can not get the treatment advertisized anywhere in the Missouri area even if I wanted to. Would not recommend this if you think it is exercises for your face. It is ok if you are looking for spa type procedures, skin care products & pricing information.

Pan-G face lift costs more time & money than a regular facelift & does not last as long
This book is NOT about you exercising your own facial muscles. You need to get hooked up to a special machine located in Canada or Chicago, IL. It actually costs more than a face lift and needs repeating to keep up the slight results. Seems like a waste of time & money (to me). Just by writing & selling this book, the author has probably gotten her Pan-G lifts done free of cost for advertising and wears so much makeup it is difficult to tell if the procedure really works. I was very disappointed with this book & honestly cannot recommend it.

Did I just pay $$ for a face lift procedure advertisement???
What a disappointment.I thought I was purchasing a book about facial muscles and how they could be exercised to achieve a tighter look.After all, the title says "Non-Surgical Face Lift:Bodybuilding for Your Face."But the book is nothing but a long-form advertisement for a face lift procedure usually done in Canada!And to top it off, it's very expensive and takes 12-16 weeks of twice-a-week procedures to produce the results.I can't believe I just spent $$$ on an ADVERTISEMENT for a face lift!!!Very deceptive - this shouldn't be advertised as a "book."I only gave it one star because they won't let you give a lower score! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

One of the best available books on natural body building
[Review written Jun 2005]

This was, and apparently still is, one of the best available books on natural body building. The author covers the material expertly and well ... from both an exercise physiology standpoint (with plenty of photos, showing good form), to how to tailor 'split training' programs to your own personal schedule (while avoiding overtraining), to sports nutrition.

I used to be a bit of a gym rat and a fitness nut back in the 1980's and early 1990's, and (as of this writing) I've only recently resumed working out with weights ... to help minimize the effects of an old back injury. This book was, and to a lesser degree still is, my bible, on all matters relating to training with weights, for basic fitness and proper joint function. No drugs, no gimicks, no unhealthy and unbalanced diets - just good exercise, done in good form, in moderation, and with good nutrition and good rest to back it up.

There are a few minor areas in which the book is a little dated ... including advances in nutritional supplementation, new medical research, and new types of low-stress equipment (ex: core strength balls, exercise bands, etc.) that have been developed since this book was published ... but you can find books on such things elsewhere.

Highly recommended - if you can find a copy.

One of the best books on fitness and training!
Peter Neff was a former champion natural bodybuilder back in the 1970s and 1980s who also became editor of Natural Physique magazine, now called Natural Bodybuilding. When I met him and spoke with him, he struck me as one of the most knowledgeable trainers on the field of fitness and strength training for the drug-free trainee. He was one of the pioneers of the drug-free movement, having competed successfully against steroid users and then eventually becoming named Natural Bodybuilder of the Year for 1983-1984 after having won 22 competitions, most of them at the regional level, and most against non drug-tested contests. He is a very gifted writer and has a talent for explaining the most complex of principles in a way that could be understood by the layman or novice. This book is divided into the dangers of steroid and other performance-enhancing drug use, the differences between training naturally and training while on drugs (yes, there is a big difference!), genetic potential, the most productive exercises for each bodypart, natural training for women, nutrition, and a brief biography of his training success. This book was indeed a labor of love when it came out in 1985, meant to be the most comprehensive encyclopaedia of its kind. Compared with the books today, Peter's book still is, but, because it's over twenty years old, some new information has come out that I believe makes his book somewhat outdated (such as the specific supplements he recommends). Still, if I were to make a choice at the bookstore as to what one book to buy on weight training without performance drugs, this is the one to get. But since it's no longer available at the bookstore, I'd try to find this anyway possible, even though it may be a little pricey, because it's well worth the investment.

Pretty much the best book on natural bodybuilding I've seen
It's a pity this book is so hard to find now. Is is the most complete book I've seen on solid, pragmatic techniques to build muscle.It explicitly explains things that other books simply seem to assume the readers know already such as progessively increasing the weight and intensity on each set and only performing half of your workouts at maximum intensity. A newer, up to date edition would be a very welcome thing.

No-nonsense, complete guide to natural bodybuilding
Poorly edited, but solid on content, this no-nonsense book takes holistic approach to the bodybuilding science. Some of the material may be a little dated, but not much: solid treatment of exercises, training programs, etc.are provided, and are generally timeless. Done in 1985; wish he'd done anencore. ... Read more

Product Description
Webster's bibliographic and event-based timelines are comprehensive in scope, covering virtually all topics, geographic locations and people. They do so from a linguistic point of view, and in the case of this book, the focus is on "Bodybuilding," including when used in literature (e.g. all authors that might have Bodybuilding in their name). As such, this book represents the largest compilation of timeline events associated with Bodybuilding when it is used in proper noun form. Webster's timelines cover bibliographic citations, patented inventions, as well as non-conventional and alternative meanings which capture ambiguities in usage. These furthermore cover all parts of speech (possessive, institutional usage, geographic usage) and contexts, including pop culture, the arts, social sciences (linguistics, history, geography, economics, sociology, political science), business, computer science, literature, law, medicine, psychology, mathematics, chemistry, physics, biology and other physical sciences. This "data dump" results in a comprehensive set of entries for a bibliographic and/or event-based timeline on the proper name Bodybuilding, since editorial decisions to include or exclude events is purely a linguistic process. The resulting entries are used under license or with permission, used under "fair use" conditions, used in agreement with the original authors, or are in the public domain. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

classic photos and bio's!!!
reeves, grimek, schwarzenegger, sandow, klein, mentzer etc. with photos and info on their acomplishments! ... Read more