An Excellent Basic Workout Book
I just got Herschel Walker's Basic Training by Herschel Walker and Terry Todd, PhD and read the whole thing yesterday. I see why people don't want to get rid of theirs and the aftermarket used price is so inflated. I saw the book on eBay mixed in with a grab-bag of fitness books for less than I'd ever seen it alone, so I snapped it up.
Walker's autobiographical stuff is very interesting and adds a personal dimension to the book. Todd's stuff adds a great deal with the science behind the exercises and is really what takes this book from a basic exercise manual to a classic book in the field. The plans in the back would be invaluable to young athletes looking to start out, and as the programs go to the Advanced level, they are helpful to more experienced athletes as well. I liked the included Karate, sprinting, stretching, and water workout tips.
It does cover basic weightlifting, as even Herschel Walker needed to add some iron to his regimen when he hit the pros. Overall, I think it's a great book that deserves a reprinting. If you haven't read it, track down a copy. It should be in every functional-fitness buff's library.
