Michael H. Brown's 'The Strength of Samson: How to Attain It' isn't the type of book you can read through once then permanently house on a shelf. It doesn't promote a specific exercise system, nor does it persuade you narrow your approach to conform to a fitness author's pet theories.
'The Strength of Samson' is much more than that: it is the distilled wisdom and experience of a life-long weightlifter and overall athlete. It is also an invitation to tinker with what you've learned once you've mastered the simple - but not easy - basics of the iron game.
There is a lot to digest in this tome (no pun intended). I read through the book twice before I began experimenting with the wealth of advice and information contained therein. Some of Mike's suggestions worked really well for me, such as his routines for maximizing the effectiveness of deep-breathing squats. Others didn't, for example consuming lots of milk and oranges. Nonetheless, after nearly six months of experimentation, and several re-readings, there is still a lot in its spiral bound pages for me to try out.
Working out alone in my home gym, I've found that 'The Strength of Samson' has taken the honored place of my once upon a time gym buddies: offering encouragement and advice while cutting right through the excuses and other BS. Michael H. Brown doesn't mince words: flab is a character flaw and the iron game shouldn't be about working out to get 'pretty' muscles.
Throughout the tome Mr. Brown removes the feats of Samson from the realm of myth and demonstrates how a dedicated lifter, by adding some cable workouts to their routine, can duplicate the same stunts as the Biblical strong-man. And yes, this includes tearing apart a young lion and toppling an ancient temple.
There is a lot of information on Biblical eating with a special focus on the Levitical and Nazarite diets. Though I have experimented with ancient dietary methods before, I've gained many new insights and techniques from studying 'The Strength of Samson'.
I'm currently preparing myself for the various forms of fasting Mike suggests and - though my wife raised an eyebrow when I asked- periodic olive oil massages.
This book appeals to me on a number of levels. Heroic living, mythic strength training and diets from long ago have always fascinated me. Applied spirituality is another biggie. The conversational writing style and many anecdotes are extremely appealing, making for a great read and re-read. Last but not least: though he only mentions it only in passing, the author has also put two and two together about the presence of advanced technology in ancient times, including by the angel who appeared to Samson's parents and prophesied his birth and his role in lifting the Philistine oppression.
Review by Hercules Invictus
Mythic Physique: Mythic Inspiration
Larger Than Life Living in the World Today
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Note:
In September of 2015 I got to portray the biblical Samson in a play based on Isabel Merians' novel Harlots and Heresy.
This was a Sword & Sandal dream come true: Hercules as Samson.