At first glance The Stick self-massage gizmo looks like a gimmick and ranging in price from �27.99 to �47.99, depending on size, a pretty expensive gimmick at that. But having heard so many people (cyclists and marathon runners in particular) rave about the benefits Cyclo thought it time to take a closer look�
Invented back in 1991 in America, The Stick is, in essence, a long� erm� stick, with handles at either end and a series of free-rotating spindles between; these look disturbingly like vertebrae but are, in fact, the bits that really go to work on sore muscles when you begin your self-massage session. It can be employed for a variety of massage sessions, working both trigger points and general deeper tissue pummelings, with the version Cyclo had on test (the shortest, 17inch and cheapest, �27.99) being particularly effective at working the legs.
We found some real benefits from use, both pre-ride warming and, in particular, post-ride workouts that shifted knots and released tight calf muscles quickly and efficiently. The price seems high, but compared to a single 30minute physio session things start to look far more cost effective.
It�s hard to get beyond the feeling that The Stick is a gimmick; the US website describes it as �The toothbrush for muscles�, a completely ridiculous simile that doesn�t stand up to even the slightest of inspection; whilst the UK site opts for the barely-better �The massage tool for happy muscles�. But if you can get beyond the hype and are prepared for the initial outlay, then The Stick could be a true long-term friend for both injury prevention and recovery; this is certainly kit that Cyclo will keep close to hand (and leg) from now on.
True cheapskates should take a look at the ever-excellent (and often deranged) instructables.com website, where some penny-pincher has posted instructions for making your own out of household objects. We wouldn�t swear by the results, but it will give you something to read whilst using your own (genuine) Stick.
Further details and online ordering at www.the-stick.co.uk
