Best Sports Training Books of 2026

Next Level: Your Guide to Kicking Ass, Feeling Great, and Crushing Goals Through Menopause and Beyond is an exceptional guide for active women approaching or experiencing menopause. Dr. Stacy Sims, a renowned exercise and nutrition scientist, provides science-backed advice on training, nutrition, sleep and recovery, and supplements. The book also includes sample exercise routines, meal plans, macronutrient planning charts, and case studies from real women Stacy has coached through the transition. It's the ultimate guide to navigating the Next Level. This book is a valuable resource for women who want to optimize their physical performance in their later years.

Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable is a motivational self-help book by Tim Grover that reveals the secrets to achieving total mental and physical dominance. Grover has trained legendary athletes like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade, and now he shares his knowledge with readers. The book emphasizes the importance of being relentless, thriving under pressure, and never giving up. Grover also provides previously untold stories and unparalleled insights into the psyches of the most successful athletes of our time. Overall, Relentless is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their full potential and achieve greatness.

Starting Strength: Basic Barbell Training, 3rd edition is a must-read for anyone interested in strength training. With a simple, logical, and practical approach, this book provides detailed instruction on every aspect of basic barbell exercises. The updated third edition improves on previous teaching methods and biomechanical analysis, making it the most comprehensive guide to barbell training available. The book's methods have been successfully applied to people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels. With over 150,000 copies in print, Starting Strength is the most important method available to learn the most effective way to train with barbells. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to improve their strength, appearance, and long-term health.

The Strength Training Anatomy book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in strength training. The fourth edition includes new exercises, stretches, and variations, as well as over 700 anatomical illustrations depicting the primary muscles involved. The author, Frédéric Delavier, is known for his exceptional knowledge of human anatomy and his signature artwork. This book offers a comprehensive guide to strength training, combining visual detail with expert advice. Overall, the book is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their strength training routine.

The cookbook "Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow." is a must-read for runners and athletes looking for quick and easy recipes without sacrificing flavor. Co-authored by Olympian Shalane Flanagan and chef Elyse Kopecky, this book is packed with pre-run snacks, post-run recovery breakfasts, on-the-go lunches, and 30-minutes-or-less dinner recipes. The book provides fuel and nutrition without sacrificing taste or time. The authors' approach to "indulgent nourishment" food philosophy for long-term health and happiness makes this book unique. Overall, this is a great cookbook for busy athletes and families looking for healthy and tasty meals.

The book "Glute Lab: The Art and Science of Strength and Physique Training" by Bret Contreras provides readers with a comprehensive guide to developing leaner, stronger, and higher-performing glutes. The book offers 36 weeks of programming and several training templates, breaking down each technique with step-by-step photos and descriptions. Bret's field-tested and scientifically proven methods and techniques make this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their physique and increase their strength. The book is a must-read for fitness enthusiasts who want to maximize muscle growth and strength while preventing injuries.

The Champion's Mind by Jim Afremow, PhD, is a must-read for athletes and coaches of all levels who want to improve their mental game. The book highlights how successful athletes differentiate themselves from their peers through their mindset, and provides practical advice on how to develop mental toughness, maintain focus, and stay humble. With insights from Olympians, Heisman Trophy winners, and professional athletes, The Champion's Mind offers a wealth of knowledge and strategies for achieving long-term excellence. This book is highly recommended for anyone who wants to take their performance to the next level.

This book, titled "Mental Toughness For Young Athletes (Parent's Guide)", is a guide for parents to help their young athletes develop mental toughness in competitive sports. Written by Troy Horne, the book offers eight proven 5-minute mindset exercises that can help young athletes overcome in-game confidence issues and sports performance anxiety. Horne draws on his personal journey as a youth sports parent and interviews with sports mental toughness giants like Kobe Bryant to provide actionable advice for parents. This independently published book is a valuable resource for parents looking to support their young athletes' mental toughness development.

Overcoming Gravity: A Systematic Approach to Gymnastics and Bodyweight Strength (Second Edition) is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in bodyweight strength training. The book offers a highly systematic approach that delves into the physiology behind strength training and equips the reader with the knowledge to prepare their body for the rigors of bodyweight training. With updated scientific information, expanded sample programming, and more in-depth explanations of each element of a routine, this book is a gold mine of information. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for those who prefer their fitness books to include scientific data, comprehensive programming, and effective recommendations.

Kettlebell Simple & Sinister: Revised and Updated (2nd Edition) (English and French Edition) is the ultimate guide to mastering the art of kettlebell training. Written by Pavel Tsatsouline, a former Soviet Special Forces instructor, the book provides a comprehensive program for building strength, stamina, and flexibility. Whether you're a serious athlete or just looking to improve your fitness, Simple & Sinister will help you achieve your goals while leaving you with plenty of time and energy for other activities. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to take their fitness to the next level.