TP Massage Ball

Running and cycling involve very limited range of motion. If you do not include regular flexibility exercises in your training routine, you will begin to loose flexibility, which can lead to injury. You may also develop muscle knots or "trigger points," even if you stretch regularly.

The treatment for trigger points involves a therapy technique called myofascial release. A therapeutic massage therapist uses pressure to release these knots. If you are a pro runner or cyclist regular massage work is part of your training. Unfortunately for the rest of us this may not be financially feasable or practical.

Trigger Point Technologies makes a variety of self massage and therapy products. They are simple, easy to use, and effective. I have been using the TP Massage Ball and roller to work on my IT band and muscle knots. I have found these to work very well in releasing areas that stretches are not as effective in. The products come with an instructional DVD and booklet.

coach Matt Russ

Matt Russ has coached and trained elite athletes from around the country and internationally for over ten years. He currently holds expert licenses from USA Triathlon, USA Cycling (Elite), and is a licensed USA Track and Field Coach. Matt is head coach and owner of The Sport Factory, and works with athletes of all levels full time. He is a free lance author and his articles are regularly featured in a variety of magazines such as Inside Triathlon, and Triathlete. Visit www.thesportfactory.com for more information or email him at coachmatt@thesportfactory.com