Powerlifting is one of the best ways for a man (or a woman) over age 50 to get and stay in great physical condition almost indefinitely. The benefits of this comprehensive form of training are not widely understood. In this new 300 page book, POWERLIFTING OVER 50 the 75 year old author with a 25-year career in competitive powerlifting, explains in detail how anyone can use powerlifting training to build a strong, athletic and healthy body at any age.

Each of the three power lifts (squat, bench press and deadlift) are regularly done in fitness training. However, in regular fitness training, rarely are these lifts done in a manner that would allow the lifter to develop maximum strength. There is a huge difference in lifting technique, muscle mobilization and focus between “gym lifts” and the same lifts done with maximum power generation.

In the opening chapters, the author presents a detailed account of how a trainee must develop the athletic skills needed to realize their full strength potential.

Many people who train with weights are unaware that “strength is a skill” that has to be developed like any other athletic skill. Three of the main skills needed are the ability to recruit the power from all muscle groups while performing a lift, the ability to get the entire body “tight”, and developing the ability to put out maximum power for a single repetition. Detailed instruction on developing these skills is presented.

In order to train hard and avoid injury, it is essential that the body be in proper physical condition to do powerlifting workouts. This fact is generally overlooked, but is essential for realizing one’s full potential. A unique conditioning program designed for regular practice is included.

Effective power training is done with a different workout calendar than found in bodybuilding or general weight training. Detailed information is presented on how to organize power training workouts over a week, a month and year.

Training for each of the competitive lifts (squat, bench press and deadlift) is broken into “cycles”. Each cycle is of four to eight weeks in duration. Instruction is provided on organizing training cycles for different lifts into a workout program.

As noted, using proper lifting technique is absolutely essential to realizing one’s full potential on any lift. Highly detailed instruction is presented on the proper way to perform each lift.

Five training cycles for each of the power lifts are presented. They include a full range of assistance exercises that include equipment normally available in most gyms. These include optimal use of the power cage in training, elastic bands, use of elevated platforms for squatting and deadlifting, isometric training, and plyometic movements.

The long term key to success for any individual will be in mastering the technique needed to put out the most power they can generate on any one lift. This takes a lot of focused practice. Success in this program is heavily driven by the trainees mastery of the details of proper lifting and workout structure.

The critical importance of recovery from heavy training sessions to build big strength is something that many lifters do not fully appreciate. As the great Dan John once commented “lifting heavy weights will not make you strong….lifting heavy weights and recovering will make you very strong…” The critical value of recovery is stressed throughout the book.

In addition to the extensive sections on training programs and proper technique, additional sections cover the basics of power nutrition, treating injuries, supplements and avoiding performance enhancing drugs, and how to prepare for competing in a powerlifting meet.

The book comes in both paperback and electronic versions from Amazon. To check it out, click HERE

Enjoy your training!