The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding

-1 star since there were no instant results :P

A classic, and a good one. Although first published in 1985 and updated in 1999, Schwarzenegger's encyclopedia is still relevant today. Complete with a history of competitive bodybuilding, anatomy, and lifting plans, Schwarzenegger covers it all. Word of caution - don't read only this book. Since 1999, some of the science has been at least partial debunked (specifically - somatotypes). For beginner lifting, Stronglifts 5x5 works well for me and my goals.

Schwarzenegger frequently comes back to the concept that training is a means to an end, and that end is a more impressive physique through reduced body fat and larger muscles. This contrasts starkly with the objectives of weightlifting/powerlifting - lifting the maximum weight possible for one rep. As such, Schwarzenegger emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental focus on the muscles and what they are doing. Target the core muscles for each exercise and when you cheat on a rep - do it intentionally and mindfully to reach your goals.

Particularly from the injury prevention perspective, bodybuilding makes a lot of sense compared to the powerlifting mindset I was in before (chasing the 1000lb club, etc). Reading this book has helped me to reframe my goals to focus on my body. My goals are now more subjective than the objectivity of “I can lift X pounds,” but they are my goals after all. :)

A great number of the 800+ pages are dedicated to photos of bodybuilders from over the years. Each has their own specific strengths and weaknesses. Along with the “focus on your muscles” concept, my second major takeaway from this book is the human anatomy I learned. The book is illustrated with silhouettes with sketched muscles alongside photos of bodybuilders holding the same pose. This gives a clear picture of how muscular structure manifests itself internally and externally. While I definitely won't reach the level of physique of competitive bodybuilders, I now know that deltoids have 3 heads, triceps are horseshoe-shaped, and a 6 pack typically starts above the belly button. TIL.

Would recommend.