20 Best Personal Training Books

Looking to enhance your knowledge and skills in the world of personal training? Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or just starting out, there’s always more to learn. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about personal training that cover everything from exercise science and physiology to client communication and business strategies. These books on personal training are written by industry experts and offer valuable insights, practical tips, and proven techniques to help you excel in your career. Whether you’re looking to expand your expertise, fine-tune your training techniques, or gain a deeper understanding of the human body, these personal training books are essential reads for anyone passionate about fitness and helping others reach their health goals.

20 Best Personal Training Books

Strength Training Anatomy

by Frederic Delavier

Strength Training Anatomy by Frederic Delavier is a comprehensive and visually stunning book on personal training. Delavier, a renowned strength training expert, uses his expertise to provide readers with an in-depth understanding of the human body and how it responds to various strength training exercises. The book is filled with detailed illustrations and anatomical drawings that give readers a clear understanding of how each exercise affects the muscles, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in personal training.

This personal training book covers a wide range of exercises, from traditional weightlifting to more modern techniques, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trainers. Delavier’s writing style is engaging and easy to understand, making it a great choice for those who are new to strength training. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast, a personal trainer, or someone looking to improve their overall strength and conditioning, Strength Training Anatomy is a must-have addition to your personal training library.

Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies

by Melyssa St. Michael

Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to kickstart their career in the fitness industry. Authored by Melyssa St. Michael, this book provides practical advice, expert tips, and valuable resources for aspiring personal trainers. With a focus on foundational knowledge, exercise science, client assessment, and business skills, this book on personal training covers everything from designing effective workout plans to building a successful client base.

Readers can expect to learn about the latest trends in fitness, how to create personalized programs for clients, and the ins and outs of marketing and branding themselves as a professional trainer. The book also delves into the importance of nutrition, injury prevention, and the psychology of behavior change, offering a well-rounded approach to personal training.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies is the go-to book about personal training that will help you thrive in this dynamic and rewarding industry.

The Personal Trainer’s Handbook

by Teri S. O’Brien

The Personal Trainer’s Handbook by Teri S. O’Brien is an essential guide for anyone looking to embark on a career in fitness. This comprehensive book on personal training covers everything from exercise science and nutrition to client assessment and program design. O’Brien provides valuable insights into the world of personal training, offering practical tips and strategies for building a successful business and establishing meaningful relationships with clients.

With its clear and concise explanations, The Personal Trainer’s Handbook is perfect for both aspiring personal trainers and seasoned professionals looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field. O’Brien’s expertise shines through in her engaging writing style, making this book about personal training a must-read for anyone passionate about helping others achieve their fitness goals.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, The Personal Trainer’s Handbook will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to excel in the dynamic and rewarding world of personal training.

ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer

by American College of Sports Medicine

ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer is a comprehensive and authoritative guide for anyone interested in pursuing a career in fitness and exercise. This book provides a wealth of information on exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and the latest trends in personal training. With practical advice and scientific evidence, this book equips personal trainers with the knowledge and skills they need to help their clients achieve their fitness goals.

Readers can expect to find detailed information on designing effective workout programs, conducting fitness assessments, and understanding the principles of strength training and cardiovascular exercise. The book also covers important topics such as injury prevention, special populations, and legal and ethical considerations in the personal training industry.

Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or just starting out in the field, ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer offers valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your expertise and help your clients succeed in their fitness journey.

The Complete Guide to Personal Training

by Morc Coulson

The Complete Guide to Personal Training by Morc Coulson is a comprehensive and practical resource for anyone interested in becoming a personal trainer. This book provides a wealth of knowledge on the principles and practices of personal training, covering everything from exercise science and anatomy to program design and client assessment. With its clear and accessible writing style, this book is suitable for both aspiring trainers and experienced professionals looking to expand their expertise.

Readers will find valuable insights on how to effectively communicate with clients, motivate them, and create personalized training plans to help them achieve their fitness goals. The author’s expertise shines through in the detailed explanations and examples provided, making it easy for readers to apply the concepts to real-life training scenarios. Whether you’re new to the world of fitness or looking to take your personal training career to the next level, this book about personal training is an indispensable resource for anyone passionate about helping others achieve their fitness goals.

NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training

by National Academy of Sports Medicine

NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to become a certified personal trainer. This book covers everything from anatomy and physiology to nutrition and exercise programming, making it an essential resource for those interested in the field of fitness and personal training.

Readers will find detailed information on the principles of human movement, as well as the latest science and research in exercise physiology. The book also includes practical tips and strategies for working with clients, as well as information on injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Whether you are just starting out in the fitness industry or looking to expand your knowledge and skills, NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training has everything you need to succeed. With its easy-to-understand language and comprehensive coverage of all aspects of personal training, this book is a must-have for anyone passionate about helping others achieve their fitness goals.

Anatomy for Strength and Fitness Training

by Mark Vella

Anatomy for Strength and Fitness Training by Mark Vella is a comprehensive guide for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of the human body in relation to exercise and strength training. This book delves into the intricate details of anatomy, providing readers with a clear and concise explanation of the musculoskeletal system and how it functions during various types of physical activity.

Vella’s expertise shines through as he breaks down complex anatomical concepts into easily digestible information, making it accessible for both fitness enthusiasts and professionals in the industry. The book is filled with detailed illustrations and diagrams that help readers visualize the muscles in action, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to optimize their workouts and prevent injury.

Whether you’re a seasoned personal trainer, a fitness enthusiast, or someone just starting their fitness journey, Anatomy for Strength and Fitness Training is a must-have addition to your library. This book about personal training will undoubtedly enhance your knowledge and understanding of the human body, ultimately leading to more effective and safer strength training practices.

The Business of Personal Training

by Mark Nutting

The Business of Personal Training by Mark Nutting is a comprehensive and practical guide for fitness professionals looking to succeed in the competitive world of personal training. This book delves into the essential business aspects of the fitness industry, providing valuable insights on marketing, sales, client retention, and financial management. Nutting’s expertise shines through as he shares proven strategies for building a successful personal training business, attracting and retaining clients, and maximizing profits.

From creating effective marketing plans to implementing successful sales techniques, The Business of Personal Training offers actionable advice that can help fitness professionals take their careers to the next level. Nutting’s writing style is engaging and easy to understand, making this book a valuable resource for both seasoned trainers and those new to the industry. Whether you’re looking to start your own personal training business or enhance your existing one, this book about personal training is a must-read for anyone serious about succeeding in the world of fitness.

The New Rules of Lifting

by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove

The New Rules of Lifting, written by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove, is a revolutionary book on strength training and fitness. This dynamic duo of authors provides a comprehensive guide to reshaping your body and improving your overall health through their innovative approach to strength training. This book about personal training challenges traditional workout routines and offers a fresh perspective on achieving optimal results.

Schuler and Cosgrove’s personal training book introduces readers to their groundbreaking program that focuses on functional movements and efficient exercises to maximize muscle growth and fat loss. The New Rules of Lifting is not just another fitness book; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to transform their physique and improve their physical performance. With its practical advice, scientific insights, and motivating tone, this book is a must-read for anyone serious about taking their fitness to the next level.

Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning

by National Strength and Conditioning Association

Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning by the National Strength and Conditioning Association is a comprehensive guide for individuals looking to delve into the world of physical fitness and strength training. This influential book on personal training covers a wide range of topics, including exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and program design. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a professional athlete, or a personal trainer, this book about personal training serves as an invaluable resource for enhancing your knowledge and skills in strength and conditioning.

With contributions from leading experts in the field, this personal training book offers the most current information and techniques to help you understand the science behind strength training and develop effective training programs. Whether you’re aiming to improve athletic performance, enhance overall fitness, or pursue a career in strength and conditioning, this book provides the essential knowledge and practical applications to help you reach your goals.

Starting Strength

by Mark Rippetoe

Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe is a comprehensive guide to strength training that has become a staple for anyone looking to build strength and muscle. Rippetoe’s no-nonsense approach to lifting and his emphasis on the basic barbell exercises make this book a must-read for anyone serious about getting strong.

With clear explanations and detailed illustrations, Rippetoe breaks down the mechanics of the squat, deadlift, bench press, overhead press, and power clean, teaching the reader proper form and technique. He also provides valuable insight into programming, nutrition, and recovery, making this book a one-stop resource for anyone looking to get the most out of their training.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started with strength training or an experienced lifter looking to take your training to the next level, Starting Strength has something to offer. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in strength training, and it’s no wonder it has become a classic in the world of fitness and strength training.

The Women’s Health Big Book of Exercises

by Adam Campbell

The Women’s Health Big Book of Exercises by Adam Campbell is a comprehensive guide for women who want to take their fitness to the next level. This book is not just another book on personal training; it is a complete resource for women looking to build strength, tone their bodies, and improve overall health. With over 600 exercises, this book about personal training covers everything from cardio and flexibility to strength training and core exercises. Each exercise is accompanied by detailed instructions and illustrations, making it easy to follow along and ensure proper form.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gym-goer, this personal training book offers something for everyone. It provides workout plans, tips for maximizing results, and information on nutrition to help you achieve your fitness goals. The Women’s Health Big Book of Exercises is a valuable resource for women who are serious about their fitness journey and want to see real, lasting results.

Anatomy Trains

by Thomas W. Myers

Anatomy Trains by Thomas W. Myers is a groundbreaking book on the intricacies of the human body and its interconnectedness. This book takes a fresh approach to understanding the body by exploring the myofascial meridians that run through it, challenging the traditional view of isolated muscles. Myers introduces the concept of ‘anatomy trains’ – the interconnected lines of fascia that run through the body, influencing posture, movement, and overall structural alignment. This book is a must-read for anyone in the field of personal training, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of how the body moves as a whole, rather than focusing on individual muscles. With its detailed anatomical illustrations and practical applications, Anatomy Trains offers a wealth of knowledge for those looking to enhance their understanding of human movement and improve their training techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or just starting out, this personal training book is sure to broaden your perspective on the human body.

The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL Fitness

by Stewart Smith

The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL Fitness by Stewart Smith is a comprehensive book on personal training that provides a detailed overview of the rigorous physical fitness regimen of the Navy SEALs. The book covers a wide range of exercises and training techniques, including running, swimming, strength training, and flexibility exercises. It also includes information on nutrition, injury prevention, and mental toughness, making it a well-rounded resource for anyone looking to improve their physical fitness.

What sets this book about personal training apart is its emphasis on functional fitness and real-world application. The workouts and training plans are designed to prepare individuals for the physical demands of military training, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in elite-level fitness. Whether you’re a military hopeful or simply looking to take your fitness to the next level, The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL Fitness is a valuable personal training book that provides expert guidance and practical advice for achieving peak physical performance.

Periodization Training for Sports

by Tudor O. Bompa

Periodization Training for Sports, written by Tudor O. Bompa, is a comprehensive guide to the principles and techniques of periodization, a training method that has revolutionized the world of athletic conditioning. This book is a must-read for anyone involved in sports conditioning, from coaches and trainers to athletes themselves.

Bompa, a renowned expert in the field of sports training, provides a detailed overview of periodization, outlining its various phases and how they can be applied to different sports and individual athletes. He also offers practical advice on designing periodized training programs, including exercise selection, volume and intensity manipulation, and recovery strategies.

Whether you’re a coach looking to optimize your team’s performance, an athlete striving to reach new heights, or a fitness enthusiast seeking to take your training to the next level, this book about personal training will provide you with the knowledge and tools to achieve your goals. With its evidence-based approach and real-world applications, Periodization Training for Sports is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their athletic performance.

The Complete Book of Personal Training

by Douglas S. Brooks

The Complete Book of Personal Training is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in the world of fitness and exercise. Written by Douglas S. Brooks, this book on personal training covers everything from the basics of anatomy and physiology to advanced training techniques and program design. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or just starting out, this book about personal training provides valuable insights and practical advice to help you excel in the field of fitness.

With its easy-to-understand language and detailed illustrations, this personal training book is a must-have for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and skills in the realm of exercise science. Brooks’ expertise shines through in this comprehensive resource, making it an essential addition to any fitness professional’s library. If you’re passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals, The Complete Book of Personal Training is the ultimate guide to take your career to the next level.

Functional Training for Sports

by Michael Boyle

Functional Training for Sports by Michael Boyle is a comprehensive guide that focuses on enhancing athletic performance through functional training methods. This book is a valuable resource for athletes, coaches, and trainers who are looking to optimize their training programs and improve on-field performance.

Boyle’s expertise in the field of sports conditioning shines through as he delves into the principles of functional training, emphasizing the importance of dynamic movements and exercises that mimic real-life sports activities. Readers can expect to gain insights into developing strength, power, agility, and overall athleticism, all of which are essential for success in various sports.

With its practical approach and evidence-based strategies, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to elevate their athletic performance. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, Functional Training for Sports offers valuable insights and actionable techniques to take your training to the next level.

Advanced Sports Nutrition

by Dan Benardot

Advanced Sports Nutrition by Dan Benardot is a comprehensive guide for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to optimize their performance through proper nutrition. This book delves into the science behind sports nutrition, providing readers with evidence-based strategies to fuel their bodies for optimal results. Benardot, a renowned nutrition expert, shares his wealth of knowledge on topics such as macronutrient ratios, hydration, and micronutrient needs for athletes. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, this book offers practical advice on fueling your body for peak performance and recovery. With its in-depth information and practical tips, Advanced Sports Nutrition is a must-read for anyone serious about taking their athletic performance to the next level.

Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning

by G. Gregory Haff

Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning by G. Gregory Haff is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to delve into the world of strength and conditioning. This authoritative book covers essential topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and program design, making it a valuable resource for fitness professionals and athletes alike.

With its evidence-based approach and practical application, this book on personal training provides readers with a solid foundation in the principles of strength and conditioning, as well as the latest research and techniques in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or just starting out, this personal training book offers invaluable insights and strategies to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Written by leading experts in the field, Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning is a must-have for anyone passionate about fitness and performance. Packed with valuable information and practical tips, this book about personal training is a game-changer for those looking to take their training to the next level.

The Personal Trainer’s Pocketbook

by Jonathan Goodman

The Personal Trainer’s Pocketbook by Jonathan Goodman is a comprehensive and practical guide for fitness professionals looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of personal training. This compact and easy-to-read book is packed with valuable information on exercise programming, client communication, and business strategies for personal trainers.

With a focus on practical application, this personal training book provides tips and techniques for designing effective workout programs, motivating clients, and building a successful personal training business. Whether you’re a seasoned personal trainer or just starting out in the industry, this book about personal training is a valuable resource for honing your craft and taking your career to the next level.

Written in a clear and engaging style, The Personal Trainer’s Pocketbook offers actionable advice and insights that can be immediately applied in real-world training scenarios. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge and skills in the field of personal training, this book is a must-read for any fitness professional.

Final Thoughts on Best Personal Training Books

Whether you’re a seasoned personal trainer or someone looking to kickstart a career in fitness, these 20 best books about Personal Training are an invaluable resource. From comprehensive guides on exercise science to practical tips for client communication and program design, these books cover it all. By delving into the knowledge and insights shared in these books, you can enhance your expertise and effectively help your clients achieve their fitness goals. Happy reading and happy training!

Which book about Personal Training is best?

The best book on Personal Training can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. Strength Training Anatomy by Frederic Delavier,
  2. Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies by Melyssa St. Michael,
  3. The Personal Trainer’s Handbook by Teri S. O’Brien.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Personal Training?

For those looking to learn about Personal Training, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. Strength Training Anatomy by Frederic Delavier,
  2. Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies by Melyssa St. Michael,
  3. The Personal Trainer’s Handbook by Teri S. O’Brien,
  4. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer by American College of Sports Medicine,
  5. The Complete Guide to Personal Training by Morc Coulson,
  6. NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training by National Academy of Sports Medicine,
  7. Anatomy for Strength and Fitness Training by Mark Vella,
  8. The Business of Personal Training by Mark Nutting,
  9. The New Rules of Lifting by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove,
  10. Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning by National Strength and Conditioning Association

These books offer a range of perspectives on Personal Training, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Personal Training?

The best books about Personal Training are:

  • Strength Training Anatomy by Frederic Delavier,
  • Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies by Melyssa St. Michael,
  • Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe,
  • The Women’s Health Big Book of Exercises by Adam Campbell,
  • The Business of Personal Training by Mark Nutting,
  • NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training by National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Personal Training are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Personal Training books of all time?

Choosing the best Personal Training books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • Strength Training Anatomy by Frederic Delavier,
  • Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies by Melyssa St. Michael,
  • The Complete Guide to Personal Training by Morc Coulson,
  • The Business of Personal Training by Mark Nutting,
  • and Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Personal Training and continues to be influential today.