Book Notes/Starting Strength

Starting Strength

by Mark Rippetoe

"Starting Strength" by Mark Rippetoe is a comprehensive guide to strength training that emphasizes the importance of proper technique in foundational lifts such as the squat, deadlift, and bench press. The book outlines a practical program for beginners, focusing on progressive overload and the physiological principles behind muscle growth. Rippetoe also provides detailed coaching cues and troubleshooting tips to help lifters improve their performance and avoid injury.

19 curated highlights from this book

Key Insights & Memorable Quotes

Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from Starting Strength, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.

Strong people are harder to kill than weak people, and more useful in general.
The barbell is a tool for producing strength, and strength is the product of exertion against a load.
You are not going to be able to train without a proper understanding of how to do it.
Squatting is the most important exercise you can do.
The most valuable thing you can do for yourself is to become stronger.
Technique is the most important part of strength training.
If you want to get strong, you have to lift heavy weights.
A program that is easy to follow will usually yield better results than one that is complicated.
Consistency and intensity are the two keys to progress in strength training.
The only way to get better is to put in the work.
The barbell is the best tool for improving strength.
You are not a special snowflake; you are just a human.
Squats are the king of all exercises.
You get strong by lifting heavy weights and eating enough food.
Consistency is the key to progress in strength training.
Technique is the foundation of strength.
Pain is temporary; strength is forever.
The deadlift is the most important lift you can do.
Lifting weights is about more than just physical strength.