The Essential Guide to At-Home Training

The book starts off by weighing the advantages and disadvantages of training at home. Next it goes into the different types of equipment to choose from including strength, cardio, and accessories. It then goes on to warming up and stretching, aerobic fitness, and strength training(including pictures for proper form). Next it lays out the framework for designing your workout program, and then wraps things up with nutrition and weight control. The book pretty much contains everything you need to know to get started. I also own several of Matt Brzycki's other books which include; A Practical Approach To Strength Training, Dumbbell Training For Strength And Fitness, and Maximize Your Training. If you already own A Practical Approach To Strength Training, then basically you already have the information contained in this book. The main differences are that this book gives good advice about deciding which equipment to purchase, and also has a good section about warming up and stretching(including pictures). A Practical Approach To Strength Training is geared more towards athletes who have access to a fully loaded strength training facility. If you plan on using dumbbells in your workout, then I would also reccomend getting Dumbbell Training For Strength And Fitness. In my opinion dumbbells are the way to go for at home strength training if you want the most bang for your buck. As for cardio, I reccomend some variety so you don't get bored with it. I prefer using an elliptical indoors; and then switching things up outdoors with running, cycling, and cross country skiing depending on the weather and seasons. Also don't undersestimate the value of good diet and nutrition. All of the training in the world won't do you much good if you're living off of Mountain Dew and Twinkies. A good book on nutrition is Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy by Walter C. Willet. I'm not claiming to be an expert here, this is merely what I have found to work for me.