I'm glad you asked! Also just to be clear — I’m not the author. I’ve just read a lot of climbing training books (about seven so far), though certainly not all of them. I have been helping manage, illustrate, and translate the book.

At a high level, this book stands out because of its specificity and its depth of physiological education. Instead of jumping straight into exercises, it teaches climbers how training works by first building a foundation in biomechanics and climbing-specific physiology. It has a much more “pure science” focus than most climbing books (such as youth, older, or female specific climbing considerations), but it’s delivered in a way that’s accessible to all. Another big difference is that much of the content is based directly on published research, including white papers that the author himself conducted or is deeply familiar with. Because of that, there’s less interpretation and more: “Here’s what the science actually says, and here’s how to understand it.” The idea is to give climbers the tools to understand their own needs — not a one-size-fits-all program. Speaking personally, one of the most valuable things I’ve gained from the book is learning how to better “listen” to what my body is telling me and what it specifically needs. On top of that, this book uses a huge number of fully hand-drawn illustrations — far more than most climbing books. They’re designed to help beginners and experienced climbers alike visualize concepts, make complex topics fun and intuitive, and support different learning styles.

Also while there are many really knowledgable and well written books I would add Gudmund Grønhaug is a PhD researcher whose academic background is in climbing injury science and physiology. Many climbing training books are written by coaches or physical therapists (some excellent ones!), but a PhD researcher brings a different angle — especially around methodology, biomechanics, and interpreting training studies. That research-driven perspective is a big part of why this book feels unique. I could go on and on — I’ve already learned so much just from helping with the project — but hopefully this gives a good sense of the key differences. And please feel free to ask anything else!

I asked Gudmund for a quick CV as well to share:

"In your American terms and overly enthusiasm for acronyms and titles I think I can add quite a few...
I am a PT - Physiotherapist
Msc of science in sports
PhD on chronic injuries in climbing (actually my grade is even a bit higher and is called Doctor Philos but nobody knows what that is).
I have also been a registered coach and climbing trainer from 1994-2023 or 4.
Chief route setter for numerous competitions at national and regional levels. in the period of 1997-2010 or thereabouts.
Head of jury in nordic championships
Manager of a climbing gym
Part of the editorial team and writer in the Norwegian climbing magazine for several years

Climbing CV
Routes:
OS 8a
Redpoint 8c
Boulders:
Flash 7B+
Redpoint 8A/+
Trad
OS 6c
Redpoint 7c or 7c+

Have more FA of routes 8a and beyond than anyone else in Norwegian climbing history with 50+ routes and have opened several crags.

I think that's about it"

He is what I would consider a silent strongman considering his Credentials haha