[SpiralOut]

I just received a copy of Strength Training Anatomy, by Frederic Delavier. Pretty good stuff so far, with the exception that it does not include information on powercleans and certain other Olympic movements. Still, it goes into graphic detail on many common lifts, and includes some good info on common lifting injuries and how to avoid them. Anyone out there able to compare it to Starting strength?

[ChaseT:]

They are completely different.

[flak]

I've flipped through "Strength Training Anatomy" in the bookstore a couple of times and I'm currently reading "Starting Strength 2nd Ed." for the first time.

They're quite different.

"Starting Strength" is an extremely in-depth, text-heavy look at how to perform and coach the squat, bench and deadlift, and also contains somehwat shorter write-ups on assistance lifts such as the front squat, overhead press, powerclean and good morning.

"Strength Training Anatomy" is built around large illustrations showing the muscles involved in various lifts. It covers a lot of lifts, including many isolation movements. The text is fairly sparse.

"Strength Training Anatomy" is a good book if you want to visualize what muscles are working during various lifts. I expect it's okay for expanding your knowledge base if you don't know much about lifting (that's not meant to be a knock against you, it's just my general assessment).

But if you're looking to learn good technique inside and out, "Starting Strength" is in another league completely.

[SpiralOut]

Thanks Flak. Didn't take anything as a knock, so no worries. I am definitely in the novice category still, so any helpful information gets assimilated fairly quickly.

I am between jobs at the moment, so I've been putting off buying SS until I get back into a steady income cycle. I was curious if I was missing much, and it seems I am. But between tax refunds and starting work again tomorrow, I should have it soonish. Gotta make sure I don't run out of beer money.

[FirstNobleTruth]

I have both books, and I would definitely choose Starting Strength over Strength Training Anatomy. Having said that, I think both books are quality and worth the investment.

[AnOddParadigm]

I have both books. Starting strength is an amazing book. You get 200 pages explaining 5 lifts. It makes a great reference. Everytime I read it (I have both editions) I learn some new technical aspect of the lift. It changed my perspective on weight lifting.

Strength training anatomy is OK. It is interesting seeing which muscle groups or used in each lift. However, 90% of the lifts in the book have no purpose in almost anyones routine. If I was more into bodybuilding and less into strength training I might have enjoyed it more.