Strength Coaching in America

[Strength Coaching in America is] a must-read to historians, professionals involved in recreational weight training, and all others who are interested in strength training, whether as a form of recreation or as a profession…Highly recommended. ~CHOICE

[Strength Coaching in America] marks a fascinating insight into the previously explored area of strength and conditioning….The book’s strength lies in the effortless way in which the untold stories, the contentious figures and the scientific dogma which influenced the development of strength coaching are told...Shurley, Todd and Todd have produced a book that serves simultaneously as a reference guide for future works and a challenge for more research. ~Physical Culture Study

Strength Coaching in America takes the reader on an incredible journey through the evolution of a profession. The authors demonstrate an extraordinary level of insight into and intimate understanding of the field as they describe and document the historical events and backdrops that have led the profession to where it is today. Written like an intriguing novel, this book is a must-read for anyone who has ever picked up a weight in the gym. ~William J. Kraemer

Strength Coaching in America is a winner. It is a real contribution to the literature and should be required reading for all weight trainers, kinesiology students, sport studies majors, and athletic coaches. ~Ronald A. Smith

In Strength Coaching in America, the authors examine the historical, social, and scientific factors that led to the development of strength coaching within sports. They argue that the primary responsibility of this new profession was to improve an athlete’s strength, power, and agility so that the athlete could achieve maximum performance during competition. The emphasis on strength conditioning by teams at all levels, the authors conclude, has transformed the landscape of sports and physical culture. ~Journal of Sport History