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As a personal trainer, sometimes you need to rack the barbell and pick up a book. But where do you start? Here’s a list of 5 must-reads if you want to succeed in fitness. 

"Ignite the Fire: The Secrets to Building a Successful Personal Training Career" by Jonathan Goodman

Summary:

"Ignite the Fire" is a comprehensive guide that provides practical advice and strategies for building a successful career as a personal trainer. From attracting and retaining clients to marketing and business management, Jonathan Goodman covers all aspects of the personal training profession with clarity and insight.

Key takeaway:

Invest in Continuing Education - Continuously invest in your education and professional development to stay updated on the latest trends, research, and best practices in the fitness industry. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences, and seek out mentorship opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills as a personal trainer.

"Strength Training Anatomy" by Frederic Delavier

Summary:

"Strength Training Anatomy" offers a visual tour of the muscles in action during various strength training exercises. With detailed illustrations and explanations, Frederic Delavier provides invaluable insights into muscle anatomy, movement mechanics, and exercise technique.

Key takeaway:

The deeper you get into the fitness industry, the further you get away from your formal education. Most trainers start their careers with a deep understanding of anatomy but as time goes on they forget what they’ve learned. “Strength Training Anatomy” is the perfect book to keep handy as a reference and a refresher. 

"Can You Go?: Assessments and Program Design for the Active Athlete and Everybody Else" by Dan John

Summary:

"Can You Go?" explores the importance of assessments and program design in achieving optimal fitness and performance. Dan John presents a systematic approach to assessing movement patterns, identifying limitations, and designing customized training programs for clients of all levels and abilities.

Key takeaway:

Focus on Individual Assessment - Conduct thorough assessments of your clients' movement patterns, mobility, and fitness levels to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement. Use this information to tailor personalized training programs that address their specific needs and goals. 

"Becoming a Supple Leopard: The Ultimate Guide to Resolving Pain, Preventing Injury, and Optimizing Athletic Performance" by Dr. Kelly Starrett

Summary:

"Becoming a Supple Leopard" is a comprehensive resource for improving movement quality, preventing injuries, and enhancing athletic performance. Dr. Kelly Starrett presents mobility exercises, self-myofascial release techniques, and corrective strategies to optimize biomechanics and movement efficiency.

Key takeaway:

Prioritize Mobility - Incorporate mobility and flexibility exercises into your clients' training programs to improve movement quality, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance athletic performance. Emphasize the importance of maintaining proper joint function and tissue health for overall well-being.

"The Squat Bible: The Ultimate Guide to Mastering the Squat and Finding Your True Strength" by Aaron Horschig

Summary:

"The Squat Bible" is a comprehensive guide to mastering the squat exercise and unlocking your true strength potential. Aaron Horschig provides detailed instructions, troubleshooting tips, and programming recommendations to help individuals of all levels perfect their squat technique.

Key takeaway:

Master the Fundamentals - Start with mastering the fundamental movement patterns, such as the squat, before progressing to more advanced exercises. Teach your clients proper squat mechanics and variations, focusing on technique, depth, and alignment, to build a strong foundation for their fitness journey.

These books offer valuable insights and practical strategies to help you become a better personal trainer. By incorporating the tips from each book into your practice, you can enhance your knowledge, skills, and effectiveness in guiding your clients toward their fitness goals.