This is the classic authority on training for speedskating (written for ice, but with some applicability to indoor roller and outdoor roller). The book is full of clearly written analyses of form and technique on the ice, as well as a lengthy description (several chapters worth) of conditioning and training exercises. Lastly, the book talks about race strategy and uses detailed examples about 5-time Olympic gold medalist Eric Heiden. This is a very thorough book and is devoid of a lot of fluff and filler graphics--it's very "meat and potatoes".

While the sections on training and race strategy could be interesting to athletes in other sports, it may be too sport-specific to be of interest.

the information is pretty good. it tells one about the things that one must do to improve on his or her speedskating. i wish the book had alot more picture sketches and pictures of eric heiden at the world championships, etc. this book is recommended to those who speedskate and who want to improve when it comes to speed, and technique. one has to lift weights, sprint on the track and run long distance for endurance, and stretch alot.
i have to say that any information on eric heiden is very mysterious, he is a mysterious man. nice. literature(the book)is recommended to all who practice this sport or fans who want too know the ways olympians did it in the past(training). you will hear of some commenting that this book is old, but this is just said because those dont want one to improve and want to be the only ones doing it. apply this information to your work out: lifting weights, running the sprints & long distances and having a positive attitude and you should do well when speedskating. very unbiased. holum is great!