Lifting isn't one of those activities like, say, checkers, that you can competently engage in after a one-minute explanation. Weight Training For Dummies explains the jargon and key safety precautions you need to get started. But the book won't leave you wondering what comes next. This engaging, down-to-earth guide covers all of the following topics and more:

The exercise section of this book demonstrates a wide variety of exercises for all your major muscle groups. Each chapter includes a muscle diagram (so that you can locate your "quads" and your "delts") and an ever-so-brief physiology discussion. Exercises are demonstrated for novices and veterans, home lifters and gym members. You will also find out how to modify many of the exercises if you have trouble with your back, your knees, or other joints.

Amazon.com Review
Owning Weight Training for Dummies is like having two knowledgeable and entertaining personal trainers into your home. The authors, Liz Neporent and Suzanne Schlosberg, authors of the popular Fitness for Dummies, are both fitness professionals who walk (lift, run, bicycle) their talk. They explain the basics of weight training simply, then take you through every step to setting up your own program and doing it properly. Whether you have free weights (dumbbells and barbells), a home machine, or access to a gym with many machines, you'll get an introduction to safe and effective weight training, plus descriptions, technique, and illustrations of dozens of exercises designed to target all major muscle groups. And just in case this is the only fitness book you buy, the authors include some information on cardio exercise, stretching, and other exercise options. Best of all, the book is motivating, easy to understand, and fun to read.

This updated edition of Weight Training for Dummies includes a few new chapters: "Yoga and Pilates" and "Improving Your Balance and Coordination," both in the "Beyond the Barbell" section; "Advanced Weight Training Exercises"; and a few snippets of new material (such as the addition of "Don't dress like a porn star" in the "Weight Training Etiquette" chapter). Otherwise, it's pretty much the same book. If you own the first edition, there's probably no need to buy the updated version. But if you don't own the first edition of this handy and cheery guide already, and weight training is not yet a part of your fitness program, the second edition of Weight Training for Dummies will teach you exactly what to do and how to do it. --Joan Price