A Practical Approach to Strength Training

This fourth edition of A Practical Approach to Strength Training is a long-awaited update of the classic book that has been a widely used resource in the fitness industry, selling nearly 35,000 copies. Many of the chapters have been overhauled with the latest information on strength and fitness; new chapters have been added, including ones on anaerobic training, metabolic training, flexibility training, power training, weight management and several on nutrition.             

The book is 336 pages with more than 135,000 words and 300 photographs and describes nearly 100 exercises that can be done with free weights, machines and manual (partner) resistance.  The year 2014 will mark the 25th anniversary of its initial publication.

Matt Brzycki, BS, has nearly 30 years of experience at the collegiate level as a coach, instructor and administrator.  His current role is the Assistant Director of Campus Recreation, Fitness at Princeton University.

He served in the US Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979, earning various distinctions including the Leatherneck Award (for rifle marksmanship), meritorious promotion to the rank of sergeant, Meritorious Mast, Drill Instructor Ribbon and rifle expert badge (3 awards).  After completing his four-year enlistment, Matt enrolled at The Pennsylvania State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education in 1983.

Matt has authored 8 books, co-authored 7 books and edited 2 books.  In addition, he has authored more than 450 articles/columns on strength and fitness that have been featured in 45 different publications.  Matt has given presentations throughout the United States and Canada and has been a guest on radio shows in Atlanta, Cincinnati and Phoenix.

He's a coadjutant (part-time lecturer) for the Department of Exercise Science and Sport Studies at Rutgers University, teaching a course in Principles of Weight Training.  Matt has co-developed two certification courses: the SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) Fitness Specialist certification and the Youth Fitness Instructor/Trainer (YouthFIT™) certification.

Matt served on the Alumni Society Board of Directors for the College of Health and Human Development at Penn State from 2001 to 2007, chairing its Awards Committee during his final two years.  He was appointed by the governor to serve on the New Jersey Council on Physical Fitness and Sports as well as the New Jersey Obesity Prevention Task Force.

He finished first in the 200 (29.41) and 400 (1:05.81) in his age group (55-59) at the 2012 USATF New Jersey Open and Masters Outdoor Track and Field Championships. His time in the 400 is below the qualifying standard of 1:06.40 for the 2013 Summer National Senior Games.