The first few chapters Rippetoe's "Practical Programming for Strength Training" explain a lot of the theory behind strength training. One of the first things i

The first few chapters Rippetoe's "Practical Programming for Strength Training" explain a lot of the theory behind strength training. One of the first things it does it clarify the difference between exercise vs training. Exercise is just "working out", whereas "training" is a long term plan to improve certain aspects of the body's ability. Unless you are specific about what your goals of changing your body and your body's abilities are, then it will be hard to get "results" since "results" is not well defined. Some example results: * Get bigger chest and arm muscles * Be able to run long distances * Be able to perform certain feats of strength: Lift heavy things, do certain gymnastics poses * Have certain muscles or muscle groups be defined * Any sport specific activity: climbing, rowing, golf, basketball, etc Muscle composition and neurological response develop differently to different training. Endurance, balance, speed, range of motion, and lifting heaving things are all different. And you can develop those abilities in different muscles and movements. Applying this context to any fitness article I read has clarified a lot for me.