Active Isolated Stretching by Aaron Mattes

Aaron Mattes’ method of stretching could prevent countless injuries and rehabilitate others who have given up hope. I also recommend the Whartons Stretch book, which is another presentation of this same method. I have seen impressive results in a number of injury rehabilitation situations, in a short period of time. I also recommend the video. It takes time and dedication to learn these stretching routines, but it is worthwhile (and you will feel great!). If you can locate a Personal Trainer or Certified Massage Therapist who is knowledgeable in this method to help you learn the routines, and then use the book for reference, you’ll have the best of both worlds.

Fit Body Fit Soul by Mark Allen & Brant Secunda

When you’re stressed out, emotionally drained, overworked, overweight and unappreciative of your physical body, you can’t get much of anything accomplished—at work, at home, on the race track, wherever and in whatever capacity. Put simply, when you’re spiritually unfit, life is a greater challenge. That mythical “balance” you’ve always dreamed of achieving is just that — a myth. But not anymore.

Mark Allen was one of the top triathletes in the world but struggled to get past the barriers preventing him from winning the grueling Ironman World Championship triathlon in Kona, Hawaii.

Then he began studying with Brant Secunda, healer and teacher in the Huichol Indian tradition of Mexico. Brant is the only Westerner to have completed a 12-year apprenticeship with Don José Matsuwa, the revered Huichol Indian shaman. Brant taught Mark the spiritual and healing exercises that allowed him to integrate his physical and psychological fitness.

Mark went on to win a never-before-achieved six Ironman triathlons in a row and was called the “World’s Fittest Man” by Outside magazine.