Wrestling Physical Conditioning Encyclopedia by John Jesse (1974-06-02) Paperback – January 1, 1634

Jesse had some interesting details on old time strongmen and wrestlers. Along with old school training methods that still work. It is worth every penny you pay and is a must have if you follow the iron game and it’s history.

I honestly don't know why this book is out of print. I suppose everyone bought a copy shortly after it was released--it HAS been out a while. The truth is, I bought two copies just before it was "phased out", and in short order resold the second copy on eBay (for profit, I believe.) Everyone I've come across in the wrestling community who has seen the book simply raves about it. I've even had friends of mine read it (not all were wrestlers) and not one didn't get anything out of it.The book is thick, and full of info. Yes, it has old photos of wrestlers and styles from history and around the world. Yes, it has tips and recommendations on weight lifting. Yes, it addresses diet and nutrition. Yes, it delves into physiology and the basis behind much of its suggestions. (Key example: getting stronger increases your conditioning. You can wrestle a 150-lbs. opponent harder and longer than a 175-lbs. opponent. So if the 175-lbs. opponent *feels* like a 150-lbs. opponent, you've indirectly extended your conditioning.) If you don't feel you need all that the book offers, that's certainly no reason not to acquire it; simply save the unwanted portions for later (and if you're active in the sport, eventually you'll need most of what's in here.)This book is a classic, and upon reading it you quickly understand why the training methods it teaches work. "They don't make them like they used to" certainly applies here.Five stars for historical value, detail, sound methodology, and abundance of useful material on numerous aspects of training.

This is an excellent tile for those interested in strength and conditioning as it applies to wrestling. A lot of bases are covered to include free weights, sandbags, partner drills, gymnastics apparatus, etc. The author even includes some plans for making various equipment used in the book. Overall a great book.Note- that new reprints of this book can be found online for $45 so there is no need to spend such high prices for a used copy, unless you are a collector and you happen to find a first edition.

Yes this book is dated, however alot of it is still valid. Their are many hidden gems of wrestling wisdom & awesomeness within these pages. A must have for any fan of wrestling, conditioning, combat history, cross cultural studies- as far as wrestling goes- and for any one who is a fan of the old school( toughness, manhood etc...)

I stumbled upon this gem while compiling my "Authoritative Encyclopedia of Scientific Wrestling". Some of the material might be a little dated but it is truly a great book. I sincerely cannot recommend it highly enough.