Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors – Volume I

— UNBELIEVABLY EXTENSIVE RESEARCH!

I’m assuming this will become a seminal research volume.

David Epstein,      Sports Illustrated

— …most historically accurate manuscripts ever written about the Iron Game.

Randy, your first book (Volume 1) was outstanding, I really enjoyed reading the
1950's and 60's Iron Game history. Of course I lived through that time
period, which the book brought back perfectly. The second book
(Volume 2 ) was more than outstanding, it was out of this world,
excellent book.

your books are the most historically accurate manuscripts ever written about the Iron Game.
Your writing flows from subject to subject without the reader loosing
interest, extremely hard to do. Another amazing point, your books
virtually have no mistakes, I don't know how you accomplished that.

• John "Osmo" Kiiha

— Amazed At The Clarity and Content

If Volume II is only half as good as Volume I, it will still be terrific! I must have read Volume I at least six times and I'm still amazed at the clarity and content throughout. -George Coates, Veteran Industry writer

— Tremendous Book And Compulsory Reading – David Robson

With pinpoint accuracy and razor sharp attention to detail, Randy Roach has masterfully and entertainingly encapsulated the numerous critical events that have formed what is commonly referred to as the Iron Game and variously described as Physical Culture, bodybuilding and the strength training industry. With a long, colorful and oftentimes ambiguous and murky history, many aspects of the Iron Game and dealings concerning its major players have been shrouded in mystery, until now. Leaving nothing to chance, Randy has painstakingly researched and uncovered the truth behind the muscle, bodybuilding's real origins and historical underpinnings - nutritional and otherwise. "Muscle, Smoke and Mirrors" is a tremendous book and compulsory reading for all who wish to learn the truth about the Iron Game and have even the remotest interest in the history of Physical Culture. Surely destined to become a literary masterpiece.

 

- David Robson, Professional freelance writer and book author

— Randy Roach Is The Ultimate Historian – Mauro Di Pasquale

Today's universal obsession with a tight athletic body and performance can be traced back to bodybuilding. In fact what we're going through today was conceived and delivered many decades ago in a sport that is so cutting edge that it took the world almost a century to catch up. Just how it all evolved is fascinating and spellbinding. Randy Roach is the ultimate historian, combining extensive research and interviews with both his vast knowledge of the sport and his obvious writing talent. The result is a book that brings history to life and manages to be both informative and entertaining. Once you start to read this book, even though it's almost 600 pages long, you'll find it difficult to put down.

 

- Mauro Di Pasquale, MD, Author of the recent "Amino Acids and Proteins for the Athlete" www.metabolicdiet.com

— Definitive Resource Of Physical Culture – Ed Spielman

"Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors" is the definitive resource for anyone interested in Physical Culture, bodybuilding and allied subjects. Exhaustively researched, brilliantly written and with rare historical photographs. Randy Roach has produced the 'go to' book, the complete chronicle of the Iron Game.

 

- Ed Spielman, Creator of "KUNG FU", ABC-TV Series, Author of "The Spiritual Journey of Joseph L. Greenstein, The Mighty Atom, World's Strongest Man"

— Iron Game Synthesized As Never Before – Ken Sprague

I can't say enough good things about "Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors." It's a fabulous read of the Iron Game, synthesized as never before. Randy Roach hit a home run. I returned home from a 20-hour plane ride (with stops) from China last night intending to immediately hit the sack. I made the mistake of cracking the book and spent the night reading the first 200+ (of 600) pages. I've never recommended a book before. Get a copy!

 

- Ken Sprague, Author of "The Athlete's Body"

— He’s Nailed it – Bob Gajda

I've been asked to teach a course on Physical Culture and bodybuilding 101 and I would definitely use "Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors" as a class text book. What else can I say, he's nailed it!

 

- Bob Gajda, Ph.D., Author of "Total Body Training" www.gajdahealthplus.com

— Outstanding Contribution To Iron Game History – John D. Fair

Randy Roach has made an outstanding contribution to iron game history with volume one of Muscles, Smoke & Mirrors. I've learned much from it, especially about the intimate connection between bodybuilding, which no one has really explored in quite the same depth and length. Randy's love and understanding of the iron game is evident throughout the account which incorporates new sources, fresh insights, and balanced judgments. We look forward to the appearance of volume two which will bring his story up to the present.

 

- John D. Fair, Author of "Muscletown USA"

— Work Of Passion Not Seen Before – Alan Palmieri

I am well into your great work "Muscle Smoke and Mirrors" and wanted to let you know I feel. This is a work of passion not seen before and perhaps will not be seen again. I started fast reading or scanning the book, but found so much of it deep in detail and facts that I had to go back and read it word for word. The attention to detail and your efforts to make certain only accurate accounts are presented sets this work above any I've read. It's good to know someone like you exists in our sport. Anyone even remotely interested in bodybuilding needs this book. I can't wait for Volume II.

 

- Alan Palmieri, Author of "Vince Gironda, Legend and Myth" www.palmieribodybuilding.com

— Absolutely Fantastic

Absolutely fantastic! More than the bottom line! A compendium! This is the best book EVER written on Physical Culture and nutrition. A MUST read!

 

- Bob Green, Industry writer

— Instant Classic – Bob Whelan

Muscle, Smoke, and Mirrors by Randy Roach is an INSTANT CLASSIC! I was blown away by it's historical depth and quality of research. It is clearly one of the best Iron Game/Physical Culture history books ever written. This book sets a new standard for quality. Anyone even remotely interested in the weight game should get this book.

 

- Bob Whelan, M.S., C.S.C.S., Author and strength coach www.naturalstrength.com

— Overwhelming, Brilliant, Instant Classic – Ron Kosloff

There is an oldie song entitled "Anticipation." My copy of Randy Roach's Volume I arrived and this was my mental state, "anticipation." I was nervous concerning one aspect, how would Vince Gironda be presented? Would it be a positive or negative picture? I have as much control over Randy's literary penmenship as I do the weather - NONE! But, Randy was extremely fair to Vince. About one half into Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors, my obvious first thought was overwhelming, brilliant and an instant classic never to be duplicated as it is one of a kind! This is the exact way I equate Vince Gironda's contribution to our sport as it is no secret as to how I feel about Vince. In ending, if anyone is contemplating publishing a similar one to Randy's, my advice is not to waste your time or write a book about bass fishing. My next anticipation is Volume II. Oh yes, not bad for a blind guy!

- Ron Kosloff, NSP Research Nutrition www.nspresearchnutrition.com

— I Can’t Put It Down – Randy Dietrich

I started reading your book yesterday. I can't put it down. I know nothing about the Bodybuilding industry. What a great book.

 

- Randy Dietrich, St. David's high school teacher

— An Absolute Gem – Dr. Ron Schmid

Randy Roach has written an absolute gem in Muscle, Smoke and Mirrors, his history of the nutritional origins of bodybuilding. Highly entertaining, erudite, and right on in its incredible insights into fundamental nutritional wisdom, you'll find this fascinating book invaluable in building not only muscles and fitness but also lasting health. If you work out, get this book today and read it - it will change your life.

 

- Ron Schmid, ND Author of "Traditional Foods Are Your Best Medicine" and "The Untold Story of Milk" www.DrRons.com

— Most Comprehensive Book on History Of Bodybuilding – Nelson Montana

MS&M may be the most comprehensive book ever written on the history of bodybuilding. Randy Roach has combined exhaustive research with extraordinary detail to present a piece that is unbiased in nature with regard to how the lifestyle and business of bodybuilding was shaped by the supplement industry and eventually by the use of steroids. Free of judgement but rich in insight, Randy has created a masterwork which chronicles the heroes, the villains, the good, the bad, the ugly and all of the magnificence of this incredible sport. MS&M is a must read for anyone who believes, or ever believed, that the promise of a better body and a better life was possible through the practice of lifting weights.

 

- Nelson Montana, Author of "The Bodybuilding Truth" and "Bottom Line Bodybuilding"

— Phenomenal Job – Charles Welling

You have done a phenomenal job -- and I truly mean that. Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors manages to be BOTH a scholarly tome AND a "page turner". How did you do it??!! This is going to make you a legend in the industry. Bravo friend!

 

- Charles Welling, Author of the forthcoming biography of Rheo H. Blair rheohblair.blogspot.com

— Haven’t Been Able To Put It Down – Daryl Conant

I received the book and haven't been able to put it down. From what I have read so far it is outstanding. A job well done. Your history is brilliant. I am really enjoying it. This is definitely going to be a big hit among bodybuilders all over the world. Congratulations!!

 

- Daryl Conant, Author of "inVINCEable" www.darylconant.com

— In A League Of Its Own – Don Howorth

The second I held this book in my hand the vibrations just screamed to me what I had told Randy over 3 years ago. This book is in a league of its own!

- Don Howorth 1967 IFBB mr. America

www.donhoworth.com

— UNBELIEVABLE – Fred Fornicola

In a word....UNBELIEVABLE! I just got a copy of Randy Roach's new book Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors and it is amazing. I was in awe of the sheer size of it and the incredible cover, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Randy knows I'm not a big history buff but he has made this book so enjoyable and user friendly that I found myself reading it right away. There's no doubt this book is going to be a big hit with bodybuilding historians. it will be the only book you'll ever need when it comes to this topic.

 

- Fred Fornicola, Author of "Youth Fitness: An Action Plan For Shaping America's Kids" "Dumbbell Training for Strength and Fitness" www.premierepersonalfitness.com

— Truth And Class – Steve Speyrer

I really enjoyed this book! Looking forward to volume 2. Randy has told the story with truth and class. This book is the absolute best in bodybuilding. Great job!

 

- Steve Speyrer, Classic Anatomy Gym www.classicanatomygym.com

— The Book Is Magnificent – Carl Lanore

I've never realized what an exquisite writer Randy is. The book is magnificent and while I'm only into the second chapter so far, I did something else I normally don't do, and that's I began reading it from the front cover on. From the Dedication right through. Its a superb piece of literature and I wanted to take in the complete experience. I predict that this book will become an important contribution to our understanding the attraction to exercise and physical culture and its contributions to the formation of human kind as we know it. It has already made me rethink so many things that my head was filled with racing thoughts as I was trying to fall off to sleep. I have a habit of dog earring pages that I want to go back to later so that I can add them to my knowledge base. I generally end up with a few pages at best in an average book. I have about 6 in the first chapter alone. I was supposed to walk outdoors this morning but opted for the elliptical machine so that I could continue another 30 minutes into the book. I'm reading it word-for-word, also a first for me, as I loosely subscribe to the Evelyn Wood speed reading techniques to get to the meat of the subject, but realized early that attempting to do so with this magnificent book would be akin to bringing an iPod to the Philharmonic. I am so impressed with the book. I could go on and on. Bravo!!

- Carl Lanore, Syndicated radio talk show host www.Superhumanradio.com

— One Of The Best Books I Have Ever Read – Lou Mezzanotte

I have been involved in the Iron Game for over 40 years now, and that is one of the best books that I have ever read. It is really incredible. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it. I highly recommend it!

- Lou Mezzanotte Industry writer

— Mastery Of Writing

One mark of a really good writer is his ability to make meaningful transitions from one chapter to the next. I rarely see these connections, especially in nonfiction books. Randy, however, has mastered this technique. His transitions added much to his stories and reports. I am anxious to get into Volume II.

 

- Ellington Darden, Ph.D., Author of "The New High-Intensity Training" and "The New Bodybuilding for Old-School Results" www.drdarden.com

— This Is A Must Read

To say 'this is a must read' is an understatement. I own hundreds of books on the subjects of fitness, anatomy, physiology, etc., but this is one book I am proud to have on my shelf. For over one hundred years, the fitness industry and the history of physical culture have been rife with ambiguity, misrepresentation, broken promises and shattered dreams. To come across a literary work that clarifies a phenomenon that has obsessed millions is a rarity and must not be ignored. Randy Roach has done a stellar job at producing a tome that is both educational and entertaining... no easy accomplishment. The details, structure and flow of the book are so well planned and thought out that it has become and will remain the epitome and standard in physical culture writing. Mr. Roach and his book, Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors, is now part of that history.

 

- Brian D. Johnston, President of the International Association of Resistance Trainers (I.A.R.T.) Author of the "Fitness Science Library" www.exercisecertification.com

— Herculean Effort

I cannot fully express to you how much I appreciate the Herculean effort it took to create what is a seminal work in our world. You have single-handedly preserved a huge chunk of our collective history. Your vision, tenacity, hard work and love for all of it is just fantastic. I am in awe of your accomplishment and eagerly await Vol.#2.

 

- John Balik, Publisher, Iron Man magazine www.ironmanmagazine.com

— Deserves To Be A University Text Book

This book is so well written and researched that it deserves to be a University text book for nutritionists, exercise physiologists, and physical educators. What I particularly liked about it, is that Randy blends the knowledge of many sciences to explain the evolution of nutrition/supplementation through the bodybuilding movement, from anthropology to Dr. Hawkins's mapping of human consciousness. It also pleased me enormously to see finally in print, much credit given to Dr. Mauro Di Pasquale's contribution to the nutrition world. Paradoxically, it is written by a blind man that brings a bright light to the facts and events that built the nutrition industry. A thousand thanks for a brilliant work of art and science.

 

- Charles Poliquin, Strength coach and author. www.CharlesPoliquin.com

— Nothing Short Of A Masterpiece

It's 2:00 am and I just officially finished your book. A huge congratulations is in order. It is nothing short of a master piece my friend. The feeling inside is one of enlightenment and anxiousness for the next volume. I can't thank you enough for sharing this book and all your knowledge with me over this past year. It has been great. When the day comes that I can create something of this level and hopefully add it to some field that will help people I will be able to die happy. Again the book is amazing.

 

-Michael Petrella, MEDX/HIT certified personal trainer Seicho Jutsu instructor

— One Of The Greatest Books Ever Written On The Iron Game

Without a doubt, this is one of the greatest books ever written regarding the Iron Game. I've spent years digging through every source I could find to uncover just a fraction of the information that's contained in your book. You've written the book I've always dreamed of writing myself, but didn't have the means or the relentless devotion to do it. What an eye-opener this book will be for all but the most "connected" of Iron Game enthusiasts. In my opinion, no one who considers himself knowledgeable about the Game, nutrition or even weight training can be without this book. Thanks for all your time and effort!

 

-Casey Butt, Author of "Your Muscular Potential" www.weightrainer.net

— Most Exhaustive Look Yet At Bodybuilding’s History

In what may be the most exhaustive look yet at bodybuilding's long and winding history, Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors: Volume 1, weighs in at an encyclopedic 562 pages, each meticulously researched and engagingly written. Author Randy Roach spent five years compiling and writing this, the first half of a 1,000 page, two volume set that covers bodybuilding from the days of Eugen Sandow to the dawn of the 1970's.Volume II will pick up from there and carry through to today. I've only just received my review copy and am both astounded and impressed by the scope of Randy's project. All the major players in the sport's history, from the Weider brothers to Bob Hoffman to Vince Gironda to Oscar Heidenstam, as well as athletes too numerous to mention, are given their due in a storyline that reads like a good historical novel. Some great vintage photos pepper the prose, and there are 17 pages of references in the back of the book. -Shawn Perine, Writer, Flex Magazine Flex Magazine

— Fantastic Book! WOW!

WOW! Your book is fantastic! I've never read a more in-depth, encyclopedic, riveting work on the iron game. Well done! I can't wait for the next volume. -Joe Vitale, Author of "The Attractor Factor" www.mrfire.com

— The Most Comprehensive Book On The History Of Physical Culture and Bodybuilding

This is the most comprehensive book on the history of physical culture and bodybuilding ever written. It's over 500 pages and it's only volume one! Once I started reading I couldn't put it down, I found it to be very informative as well as entertaining. Don't be fooled by the name this is not just a book about muscle, it is for anyone interested in fitness, health, alternative medicine, anti aging, etc. This book will open your eyes, not just about bodybuilding, but also politics and the medical field. I can't wait for volume 2! - Paul Becker www.trulyhuge.com

— Sound Nutritional And Training Practices

Learn sound nutritional and training practices for maximizing your muscular potential, before the steroid era. Many of the lessons I've learned in my 16 years of competitive bodybuilding are revealed right before my eyes and were practiced well before i was alive. This book is a must read for the Natural Bodybuilder. I believe this book will provide the Natural Bodybuilder with the information needed to penetrate through the vast amount a misinformation and supplement hype that exists in bodybuilding pop culture. A must read for anyone who wants to actualize their muscular potential and health. - Joshua Trentine NGA & IDFA Professional Natural Bodybuilder www.overloadfitness.com

— Roach Is Passionate

Roach has full command of his subject matter, loves it, and brings the world I've tried to live in for decades to life.

 

- John Koenig Writer/Editor www.rxmuscle.com Read more of John's review here.

— A Remarkable Book!

Randy Roach has written a remarkable book that provides a new dimension to our understanding of the history of physical culture by focusing on nutrition. Though it sprang to life outside of normal academic channels, Muscle, Smoke and Mirrors exhibits some of the most important qualities of scholarship - extensive research, comprehensive coverage, ample contextualization, and sound judgements. it is also intelligently written with an engaging conversational tone.

 

- John D. Fair, Ph.D., Georgia State University, Author of "Muscletown USA" Read the full review by John D. Fair here.

— A Complete Job

Randy, what a complete job you've done, it is extremely impressive. Needless to say, those of us who have been in the game for a very long time recognize its authenticity, accuracy, and just how painstaking the work had to be in order to put together a published work that is so in-depth and complete. This is a great job, a great reference, and a very enjoyable "read" that will stand head and shoulders above the other similar attempts to chronicle the iron game as we have known it.

It's something every true lifter, trainee, fan of the game, historian, or anyone interested should have in their library.

- Dr. Ken Leistner

— The World of Bodybuilding

Into the world of bodybuilding writing and thinking enters the heaviest of heavyweights, Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors by Randy Roach. The book itself is hefty enough, though its gravity comes not from its size or the number of pages, but from the quality of its content, the mastery of its author's insight. All at once, this major work from an author unknown to many (though he shouldn't be unknown and won't be for long) has exploded onto the staid, narrow, cramped playing field known affectionately or not as the muscleworld. There has never been a book like this in bodybuilding. The Vince chapter was wonderful, not as I expected. The depth of thought and feeling there even surpassed what I thought could be done with Vince and the related people and things as a topic. You handled an impossible subject, Vince, in such a deep, human, compassionate way; that’s the hallmark of the book. I don't endorse or sell many books. But this one? Absolutely!

- Greg Sushinsky Writer/Editor www.gregsushinsky.com

— A Masterpiece

Randy has written a masterpiece on the history that covers the dawning of physical culture right through to bodybuilding in the 1960's. He has meticulously covered so many subjects that interconnect so well from the scientific nutritionists who stumble across tribes and cultures of people who have the keys to health, strength and longevity to fitness magazine owners, writers and articles who saw the dollars to promote fake foods that make a lot of money. Entangled within such well written work are some amazing and interesting characters who had differing motives and agendas that enlighten us to why and how we got where we are today within the arena of nutrition, bodybuilding, sports, strength and health.

- Stephen Morris Professional Whey - Australia professionalwhey.com

— A great novel fraught with intrigue, deception, and smoke and mirrors

Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors is a book about the journey of the physical cultural movement gone awry. A great novel fraught with intrigue, deception, and smoke and mirrors; the illusionist's stock in trade. Actually, it is more of a classroom text. It is very well written, extremely well researched, factual, informative, and entertaining. It is worth the price of admission to read about the rich industrialists' foundations and their ultimate influence on the medical colleges and universities and how that influences our view of diet today.

Muscle, Smoke & Mirrors is the definitive study of the Iron Game as it relates to nutrition; when it got there, how it got there, why it got there, and where it might be going.

• Mike Buckley

— THE Defining Book On Nutrition, Strength And Muscle Building History – Jim Bryan

With "Muscle, Smoke, & Mirrors" Randy Roach has written the defining book on Nutrition, Strength, and Muscle Building History. This Book will stand the test of time and will stand by itself as the Book to have. Can't wait for Volume Two.

 

- Jim Bryan, Strength trainer and writer http://mysite.verizon.net/resyk1dx/