Foundational Strength: The Basics for Starting Training

by John Flagg

The first step in building anything is to start with a solid foundation. That is as true for strength training as it is for construction. A program built on sound principles, anchored by science and proven effective time and again, will reward you with true and tangible results and lifetime of lifting success.

Focusing on the most essential information you need to know to start a safe and effective strength training program, Foundational Strength provides step-by-step explanations of the key elements and phases of the four essential squat, bench press, deadlift, and overhead press. Each lift is accompanied by photos that walk you through the lift from start to finish, detailing the proper mechanics and purpose of the lift.

Variations for each lift are included, helping you identify your individual starting point to ensure success, and common errors are identified to help avoid injury. Warm-up exercises ensure your body is ready for each main lift, and an assortment of accessory exercises helps you progress over time.

The book also takes the guesswork out of creating workouts, providing the basics of programming and information on how to create your own programs based on your situation, needs, and goals.

More than just a bullet-point list of movement descriptions, Foundational Strength gives you a personal coach to guide you on the first steps of your lifting journey. Get the know-how you need to build confidence and success in the gym!

Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and exam.

272 pages, Paperback

Published March 21, 2025

Reviews

[Online Eccentric Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Good (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/

This is an excellent one-stop guide to using a barbell (the sole focus of this book). Everything you need to know about the equipment, how to use it properly, and what to expect from your sessions is carefully laid out, including copious amounts of black and white illustrative photos.

The author intends the book for those starting out at a gym for the first time, professionals teaching strength programs, or coaches. Chapters include: the foundation, the warm-up, the squat, the bench press, the deadlift, the overhead press, the accessory lifts, the foundations of programming, the foundations of long term success.

The writing is easy to follow and the photographs well lit and well positioned to understand the concepts. Because it is such a great reference, I can't help but feel this should be in any gym with a barbell and in any fitness rooms at homes such as the garage gym. The book is a decent size at 225 pages and there isn't a lot of filler yet it is thorough enough to be comprehensive and very useful. It makes for a great reference. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.

[Shauna Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the level of detail that John Flagg includes for each move and explains why that level of detail is important. You can tell that John wants to ensure that readers are not injured completing these moves incorrectly. The pictures, instructions, and highlighting the common errors all will help the reader achieve each lift safely.