by Mike Schaefer
Mark Rippetoe of Wichita Falls, TX, is the foremost strength coach in the country today. Over his 40+ years experience training 10,000+ people he has developed "the single most effective way to improve the single most important physical parameter of the human body, strength". Believe it.
"Rip" produces a wealth of material including videos, podcasts, and a lively forum made freely available for all to access, to learn, and to put into practice. You can access it all at www.startingstrength.com.
Any person at any age can significantly increase strength and vitality beyond their expectations using the clear, practical method presented in his book "Starting Strength". I did and it was my personal experience, and gratitude for Starting Strength, that inspired me to make the "tribute piece" you see below.
Note: all the pictures of me currently on the site qualify as "before" pictures...before I went from 185 to a muscular 235 lbs. following "the program".