Running puts a lot of pressure on the legs. The calves and shins, especially, receive great trauma from the activity. Running, at its most basic level, involves the collision and grinding of over fifty bones in the legs. For people that want to continue “hitting the road,” they need something that can soothe their muscles and keep their legs strong.For them, there is The Stick.
The Stick Review
The Stick, is a self massage tool that can be use to work cramped, sore, and tight muscles, especially in the legs. It is a basic rolling device fixed with several hard, bead-like rings that spin freely around The Stick itself. It is a very simple and highly effective device—one of our favorites for treating a variety of aches and pains. Unlike bands, straps or creams, self massage actually addresses the problem, instead of just masking it. This makes self-massage devices, such as The Stick, foam rollers, and foot rollers, a long-term investment for any serious runner.
To use the The Stick, simply grip it on each side and roll it like a rolling pin. When rolled over a muscle or bone, the rings act as hands, pressing and smoothing out sore spots. The user can apply the stick to any part of their body. The stick helps to break-up the strong connective tissues that can become hard and knotted through exercise. It releases the trigger points that send sharp pain through the legs and it opens up blood flow, delivering muscle-building oxygen and nutrients. The Stick works exceptionally well on quadriceps, calves, the IT band, and hamstrings. My personal preference is to use it on my calves, where I often don’t feel that the foam roller digs in enough. However, I still foam roll my IT band, and prefer the foam roller for that area over The Stick. I really recommend that runners own both The Stick and a foam roller.
The Stick is strong, durable, and easy to use. It also comes in a few different versions and sizes. The regular version is 17 inches long and is my favorite for travel. The long version is 24 inches, which can cover more area, such as the chest or back, but is also my preference for home use on the legs. The sprinter stick is similar in weight and size but provides a more rigid body with tougher rings. That version is often preferred by professional athletes who need the most comprehensive recovery treatment.
Overall, The stick is one of the most important tools a runner can have. It is powerful, portable, and inexpensive, and it provides some of the best self-massage that you can get.
