Strength and Physique

Q:  I have one question to ask: I have been training for a few months. Do you think that I should rest for 1 or 2 week without training? BTW I workout 3 times a week. -Kenny T . My Answer: If you've only been strength training for a few months, then you're still a newbie. So I don't recommend prolonged layoffs within the first year of your training. Most of your gains in size and strength will occur in the first year of training, so it's best to take advantage of this window of opportunity. If you want to take a break because you're going away on a trip or you're busy taking care of important matters, then by all means take a break. One week at most. Any longer and you will detrain and atrophy. In other words, you will lose size and strength the longer your layoff. If you're an advanced bodybuilder and you've already got a decent amount of muscle and strength, then you can take periodic layoffs. People who've already built up a larg

Hi James, I know that you don't need me to write anything here, but I figured that I would give you some positive feedback while requesting your free workout .  I have volumes  two and  three of yours, and have found that you really know what you are talking about. I have told my friends and students (I am a high school physics teacher) about the results that I have gotten from your workouts. -M. Testa My Answer:  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad that the workouts have helped you out.  Being a parent myself, I've been showing more concern about the educational system. My wife works at a high school as well.  Anyway I want to thank you for educating our youth as a high school teacher. A tough and under-appreciated job, but one that is crucial to our society's future. Q: Hi, I'm an experienced weight trainer.  Can you recommend the correct volume book of yours that I should get? I read some things on your blog about cutting up wi