Here is a list of health and fitness books that I’ve read that seem to stand out above all others. If you have any suggestions to share then please let me know in the comments at the bottom of this page. Enjoy!
Shoulder Pain? The Solution and Prevention by Dr. John Kirsch
I’m constantly amazed at how effective this book is at fixing rotator cuff issues, frozen shoulders and impingement syndrome. A simple read that demonstrates how regular shoulder hanging can help shape and increase space within the shoulder joint.
A simple book that illuminates exactly what stress is, why we get stressed and ways to reduce it. Understanding why we get stressed and exactly how it affects the body is the first step to taking control.
Now in its 3rd edition, I’ve re-read this book a number of times and each time I learn something new from it. Understanding the soft tissue links throughout the body forms the fundamental basis of my approach to movement and rehabilitation.
Paul Chek is light years ahead of most health and fitness professionals. This holistic book on how to live a healthy life is all most people will ever need. Read it and follow his advice and you can’t go far wrong.
Primarily dealing with depression and mental health this book uses evidence to demonstrate how human beings are social animals and miss their connections with nature. Returning back to our roots can heal more ills than we give it credit for.
I’ve read this book so many times. The simplicity of how each joint is broken down along with common issues and how to fix them is superb. Her other books are great too!
Gray Cook is a physiotherapist who developed the functional movement screen, a series of exercises that helps to determine your suitability for exercise. Follow his instructions and you can strengthen weaknesses and cut down on injuries.
Not your average cookbook. Sally Fallon is the founder of the Western A Price foundation and a nutritional researcher. Here she combines the old with new and teaches the fundamentals of how to eat and drink for optimal health.
Habits rule our daily lives in both good and bad ways. Taking control of your habits the way James demonstrates enables you to achieve whatever you set your mind too.
One minute workout offers an easy introduction to habit building and exercise. Once you have developed your one minute habit, one becomes two and before long consistent exercise is easier than you ever thought possible.
Pavel’s simple book emphasises the importance of heavier but shorter workouts using only 2 exercises, the swing and the Turkish get up. Understand the power of step loading for workout programming from this book.
A follow up to Simple and Sinister and dives deeper into the research of short minimalist workouts focusing on only two exercises. Again the kettlebell swing is used as the main full body exercise or the snatch for the more advanced.
Want to learn the fundamentals of the big lifts and how to perform them? Then look no further than this very important book for all those interested in strength training.
If you are interested in how eastern medicine is used and the impact of certain foods on the body then you will enjoy this comprehensive book. A personal favourite for referencing alternatives to the often failed western approach.
Discover the sheer power of joint mobility and posture and their ability to rehabilitate pain and improve performance. A must for all, especially the older adult.
Ultimate Back Fitness and Performance by Dr. Stuart McGill
Suffer with back issues? Want to know how you should exercise based on evidence from one of the leading back authorities. Everyone should read this book whether you suffer with a back problem or not.
Mike is a sports coach and has had many influences on the way I approach strength and conditioning. Want to understand the fundamentals of functional training? Then read this book.
Understand how living in line with nature, and the rising and falling of the sun, drastically affects your hormones and ultimately your overall health.
[Full Disclosure: As an Amazon affiliate, I receive compensation if you purchase through any of the links above but this does not affect the original cost to you.]
What great health and fitness books have you read? Let me know more below:
Fitness is Religion….Keep the Faith. Must read for my new clients. Love the site. Respect, Phil
Thanks for sharing these Greg. I am looking forward to compiling my summer reading list with a couple of these! Especially the Body in Action book.
Hi
Frederick Delavier books are an excellent way to see anatomically the body /muscle when performing exercises.
Drb
Yes I agree Deb, they were some of the first books I bought.
Greg great book list
Check out Dan Johns books -there great
Glad you mention Mike Boyles book
Had the privilege to train with him
Again great list!!
Thanks Ralph, yes I’ve learnt a few things from Dan John too and training with Mike Boyle, what a privilege.
What a great list! Thank you, Greg, for your list and your short blurbs to understand what each is about!