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Source: Paul Lieto
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Title: Performance Stretching for Multisport
By: BodyZen Multisport Coaching and Endurance Films
Price: $29.95
Rating:
Purchase @ Endurance Films now for $22.95 (use code TRIFUEL at checkout)

Many coaches strongly advise their athletes to incorporate stretching into their daily training program. Stretching is key for longevity in almost any sport. It helps to keep the muscles long, increase range of motion, and prevent injuries. You can read more about the importance of stretching in this recent article.

If you aren't already incorporating stretching in your program, there's no time like the present to start. I recently received Performance Stretching for Multisport, produced by Endurance Films and hosted by Lee Zohlman, coach for BodyZen Multisport Coaching. I personally don't spend much time stretching and am realizing the error in not doing so. Years of sitting in the saddle and pounding the pavement can take a negative toll on the body. Continuing to go through your training plan even if you're tight and stiff can, and most likely will, cause injury at some point. Stretching is about prevention and making the best of your training. A well stretched and supple athlete will perform better day in and day out, getting the most from their training and racing.

Stretching and flexibility are key components in performance enhancement and injury prevention and should be incorporated into every athlete's training regimen. Most successful athletes schedule this vital aspect of training into their programs just like any other sport. - Lee Zohlman

The DVD provides step by step instruction on how to perform key stretches that are tailored to the multisport athlete. Specific attention is given to the neck and back area, hamstrings, glutes, inner thighs, calves, hips and other areas that tend to become tight and stiff for cyclists, runners, and swimmers. The program is broken down into three sections; Performance, Supine, and Recovery. It incorporates some of the basic stretches you may be familiar with along with stretches that clearly come from a Yoga influence. You should set aside about 40 minutes to complete the routine.

The DVD also includes an additional sport specific stretching section that runs through some quick and easy stretches to do while on, or finishing up, your ride, run, or swim.

Overall the principles and routine seemed good, especially if you're not currently doing any stretching routines. You may find it redundant if you already do Yoga and are familiar with stretching principles. However, if you're new to the sport, or have ignored stretching, then this is an great way to familiarize yourself with some good basic stretches and stay motivated by following along with Lee's simple and easy routine. I felt the benefits of the stretches and will continue utilizing the DVD to form a habit of stretching each day.

The overall production value of the DVD was good, you can clearly hear the instructions from Lee without any background noise, despite filming on the beach. Occasionally the background music can be a little overwhelming, but after a few viewings I think you'll tend to ignore it. There's also a Matrix theme in the segment transitions that seems a little outdated, but it really doesn't take away from the content of video.

Performance Stretching for Multisport retails for $29.95, but it's available on Endurance Films now for $22.95 (use code TRIFUEL at checkout) or through Amazon for $26.95

Paul Lieto (tribro) is a middle pack age group athlete who started triathlons about 8 years ago. He is the Founder and Editor of this site, Trifuel, and currently resides in Bend, Oregon with his younger brother Matt. Occasionally I try to post in my blog. You can contact me here.