11-13-00

By Mark Floyd, 541-737-0788
SOURCE: Pat O'Shea, 541-752-1914

CORVALLIS - The mechanics, psychology and importance of strength training and conditioning is the focus of a new book by Patrick O'Shea, a professor emeritus of exercise and sport science at Oregon State University.

"Quantum Strength Fitness II: Gaining the Winning Edge" is the second edition of a book O'Shea previously published. He has added material on strength and fitness training for adult and master's athletes, cardiovascular response to weight training, and on strength training for women.

"In many cases, strength training doesn't really differ between men and women," O'Shea said.

"What works for the male generally works for the female. Women do need to be cautious, however, because their different physiology lends itself to certain types of injury - especially the knees.

"It is important for women to build up the muscles supporting the joints," he added. O'Shea's textbook focuses on a number of issues relating to strength training, including:

• Interval weight training to optimize aerobic and anaerobic power;
• The benefits and risks of weight lifting for teenage athletes;
• Biomechanics of athletic-type lifting and powerlifting;
• Safeguarding the knees and back from the stress of lifting;
• The effects of aging on strength, flexibility, bone density, neuromuscular and cardio-respiratory function.

The 320-page book includes more than 250 photos and illustrations demonstrating proper techniques and exercises. It is available at the OSU Bookstore, and can be ordered through most local book stores, or on the Web.

O'Shea is director of the Oregon Center for Applied Athletic Strength Training and Conditioning. He has been a competitive lifter for four decades and still participates as a master athlete in lifting and cycling. His articles have been published in Science, The Physician and Sports Medicine, Orthopedics, the Journal of Applied Sports Science, and other publications.

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