It’s always hit or miss when I get DVD’s to review. Sometimes I sit back and
wish there was anything but a dude swinging a kettlebell between his legs on the
screen. There are only so many explosive pull thrus I can handle. But when I
receive something from the Parisi School, my expectations are pretty high. I
know what to expect. They have produced several DVD’s, and all have been well
done. This DVD is no exception.
First, let’s get through the basics. The Parisi Strength Training for Speed DVD is a two disc set. It is over two hours long and professionally done. Like every DVD they have done, it is a high class production. But who cares about this stuff. I want information, and I want it to be good.
The host of the DVD is the usual suspect, our own Martin Rooney. Before I become a Martin nut swinger (as I have reviewed many of his DVD’s and books), let me first offer a bit of criticism. Martin needs a tan and a tattoo, although he recently told me that he does have one on his chest. I am seriously hoping that it’s a big battleship or something nautical (an anchor or a Jolly Roger would also be acceptable). He likes to don the tight t-shirt, something he freely admits to and is working on. The rule of thumb is this: one wears a tight t-shirt only if said person has a menses every month. I have discussed all of these in full with Martin, and I think we can all move on. Now on to the DVD…
The first DVD goes over the principles of strength training, all of which everyone should know and internalize.
All of these principles are discussed thoroughly by Martin, who gives examples and explains why they are so important. Throughout this segment, Martin actually trains! So while he explains them, he is doing things such as box squats, weighted pull-ups, and glute ham raises.
Next, Martin goes over the acute variables of training:
One of the most important things that I learned from all of this is that Martin describes the principles of strength training as a “macro-level of training” and the acute variables of training as the “micro-level of training.” Now where do most of us spend 99 percent of our time? That’s right—in the micro level! Some food for thought: the next time you debate over six or eight reps, remember what is truly important.
The second DVD shows exercises, how to perform them, and why you should do them. Martin does a tremendous job in explaining each section and each exercise.
As you can see, the second DVD is very expansive and a tremendous resource to have for any coach. The exercises shown are a mixture of things that are common (for example the trap bar deadlift) and things that you may have not seen (sprinter sit-up).
So what is the final analysis of the Parisi Strength Training for Speed DVD? Get it.
Even if you are a coach who has extensive knowledge, this DVD will give you many ideas and exercises. Plus, the first DVD will ground you. Too often we get caught up in the micro-level, when all we need is the macro-level to help us answer the questions we have about training. I also think that this DVD would be a great way to educate your GA’s and assistant coaches on some of the finer points of general strength training. If I were a head coach, I would require everyone on my staff to know the principles that Martin goes over and to take notes. These principles would make up the backbone of my training program.
The exercises that Martin shows are also a great way to add something different to your exercise arsenal. Some of them you may not like, but I guarantee that much of this stuff would break up a redundant routine.
As with all of the Parisi DVD’s, the main segments are broken up with training footage that is very entertaining to watch. Martin keeps things from getting stale, and you can tell that he has a passion for what he does. He is a great host with some great stories and anecdotes. His acronym, B.I.G., is perfect and couldn’t be said any better.
Other DVD’s by the Parisi Speed School include:
The Business $$$ of Sports Performance Training
Jim Wendler is the senior editor and sales manager of Elite Fitness Systems. He was employed as a strength and conditioning coach at the University of Kentucky, where he worked with several different teams including football and baseball. He played football and graduated from the University of Arizona where he earned three letters. Jim’s best lifts include a 1000 lbs squat, a 675 lbs bench press, 700 lbs deadlift, and a 2375 total in the 275 lbs class.
Elite Fitness Systems strives to be a recognized leader in the strength training industry by providing the highest quality strength training products and services while providing the highest level of customer service in the industry. For the best training equipment, information, and accessories, visit us at www.EliteFTS.com.
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