Studies in Strength and Physical Culture

Physical culture is the study of the various ways that humans achieve strength, health, and beauty by training the body. Studies in Strength and Physical Culture is a series of books that explores the history and significance of exercise, physical activity, and recreation. The physical culture movement has always been a worldwide phenomenon, so the series will attempt to focus on the international scope of these activities as well as those in Anglo-American cultures. Books in the series can also concentrate on how athletes in the past have displayed their musculature and prowess by means of images, photographs, theatrical performances, and film. Because the principal subject of the series is the muscular human physique, it also includes topics like gender and sexuality as they relate to sport and body culture. Historical and cultural studies of bodybuilding, weightlifting, exercise, wrestling, and other similar disciplines are at the core of this topic.

Studies in Strength and Physical Culture welcomes a wide range of topics for both monographs and edited volumes. Queries should provide a thorough description of the project focusing on its unique qualities, relevance, and intended audience, as well as a proposed outline and brief summary of the presence or absence of similar books on the topic. Full proposals should also include a draft introduction and at least one sample chapter with documentation, a length estimate (70,000-word to 100,000-word projects are preferred), comments on special elements (such as artwork or photos), and a resume or curriculum vitae. Please send queries and proposals to the series editor, David Chapman, at davidlchap@aol.com.