Imre
Here I collected the best workout books that are useful for someone who wants to workout at home. Hence, the content is mainly about bodyweight exercises and workout plans that require only minimal exercise equipment, or things around the house.
When I started working out at home, books helped me a lot to “believe” that at home cardio and strength training could be as effective as working out at the gym. Mainly, that is the reason I switched to calisthenics.
The following books may seem to be written for men, but the information inside is suitable for women as well.
Note: This is an open list, so you can add other books if you think they should be here.
#1 Convict Conditioning
This book was written by a guy, Paul "Coach" Wade, who has been in prison for decades. There he spent most of his time getting the ultimate power. He set up a step by step system on how to reach a strength level to perform one-arm pull-ups, pistol squats, one-arm push-ups, etc. I have a detailed review of Convict conditioning here.
#2 Rough Strength Files: 42 Ideas on Low-Tech Strength Training
Alex Zinchecko is a guy from Ukraine, where it wasn't easy to train in a shiny gym. So, he set up his strength training system that mainly includes calisthenics, necessary weight lifting, and other strength training exercises. I particularly like his tips about how to build functional strength with a homemade sandbag.
#3 Plyometrics for Speed and Power
Plyometric exercises are excellent to boost the explosive power. But, at the same time, they are beneficial for cardio and endurance. In his book, you can learn the science behind plyometrics, learn a lot of exercises, and find workout routines.
#4 You Are Your Own Gym: The Bible of Bodyweight Exercises
This book is dedicated to how to get strong and healthy, with only bodyweight strength training. It includes a long list of exercises with excellent presentations, workout programs that can be done at home, and other fitness tips. I get it in my hands when I want to modify my workout routine, and I need exercise ideas.
#5 Cross Training WOD Bible: 555 Workouts
Within this book, a lot of workouts are listed mostly with exercises that don't require equipment. Both cardio and strength training plans are listed from beginners to advanced trainers. There are no exercise tutorials, just routines. If you need ideas on how to create your workout, or just want to try something new, this book will be handy.
#6 Get Strong: 16-Week Transformation Program
Al and Danny Kavadlo are among my favorite calisthenics teachers. Within this book, they share a 16-week calisthenics program, which is a great starting point for beginners who have a healthy physical state. If you read this book and follow the plan, you will fall in love with calisthenics for sure.
#7 100 No-Equipment Workouts Vol. 1,2,3
If you have searched for home workouts, I'm sure you bumped into Neila Ray's visual guides. She packed all those guides into books. No matter what muscles you want to target, lose weight, get stronger, or flexible, you will find a routine for your needs. Easy to follow plans for home, but without exercise tutorials.
#8 Workout: 33 Best Science-Based Workout Hacks
This book isn't mainly about home workouts but useful advice on how to work out more effectively, nutrition, and other helpful tips. Knowledge that comes in handy for home training as well.
#9 The Men’s Health Home Workout Bible
This book is an excellent guide for the home gym owner. It includes everything you need to know about how to build a muscular body at home with and without weights.
#10 Men’s Fitness Complete Guide to Home Workouts (PDF)
This isn't a book, but kind of magazine which can be useful for those who already have or think about getting home gym equipment such as a barbell, dumbbells, or other home gym machines. It's packed with useful advice on how to do weight training at home. I found it on Scribd and available only with a premium membership, but if you register through this link https://www.scribd.com/g/6jsaol, you'll get 60-day FREE access!
If you find this list of home workout plan books useful, you are maybe interested in the best workout Youtube channels for men as well.
