The Best Tool for Running Recovery Since H2O

When I started increasing my running mileage in training for OCS, I remember how sore my calves and shins got. Hydration and ballistic stretching helped in my recovery, but the greatest boost to recovery and pain relief was massage. Now, 30 minute sessions can go for $50 in some places, so I was on a mission for a cheap and effective alternative.

Solution: Self-Massage Made Easy

The product I found was The Stick. It’s a stiff yet springy bar surrounded by freely rotating sections, to provide a near “frictionless” massage. You can just

grab it and massage up and down muscles in your legs, or pretty much anywhere else on your legs or body. I combined my Stick usage with yoga and stretching and have performed my routine nearly nightly ever since. My stick still functions good as new, years later.

So Does it Work?

In a word, Yes! Relief is instant. The massage quality is not quite as good as a human, but it is very satisfying and effective. My stick is very sturdy, and has lasted fine for three years. It gets rid of most shin splints and is miraculous in loosening up my ITB or tight quads. On very sore and freshly worked muscles, the stick can get very painful on inflammation. I recommend an ice bath or cold water soak to get the inflammation down after your run, or some ibuprofen if you don’t mind the drugs.

The Bottom Line

The Stick is awesome. For less than the price of one massage, you can get a simple running recovery tool that will last you years.