The Anatomy of Speed

Product Description

While speed is often viewed as the defining characteristic of elite athletic performance, there remains plenty of misinformation and confusion about what speed truly is and how it can be developed. Speed is far more than seconds on a stopwatch—it is the result of multiple anatomical systems working together in highly coordinated unison, from the cross-body co-contractions of deep myofascial tissues to the pulsing contract-and-release cycle of the nervous system.

The Anatomy of Speed is a resource like no other. Bill Parisi, the internationally recognized expert and founder of Parisi Speed School, delves deep into the physiological mechanisms of speed through in-depth interviews with top experts and researchers in the field. The text provides scientifically proven exercises and drills for developing speed that will help performance coaches and athletes more effectively maximize development of this precious attribute. Using detailed photo sequences, enhanced with anatomical overlays, you will understand the different manifestations of speed, the biomotor systems that drive them, and scientifically proven drills and exercises for developing these abilities:

Acceleration
Maximum velocity
Deceleration
Change of direction
Agility
Maneuverability
Speed-specific strength

The Anatomy of Speed converts the science into practical application, allowing you to select the most effective drills and exercises, and tailor a training program unique to your athlete’s needs. The exercises—which are each designated as basic, moderate, or advanced—are organized by complexity and speed-related categories. Exercises aimed at improving range of motion and priming the nervous system set the stage for optimal results. Speed-specific strength exercises use equipment like free weights, medicine balls, and sleds to target important speed and change-of-direction qualities. A practical programming chapter helps you assemble it all into individualized training based on sport, position, body type, skill level, movement preference, and training history.

Speed comes in many forms. It is a physical skill that can be developed and improved with targeted training and a solid understanding of mechanics. The Anatomy of Speed offers equal parts science, art, and practical application to do just that.

CE exam available! For certified professionals, a companion continuing education exam can be completed after reading this book.
The Anatomy of Speed Online CE Exam may be purchased separately or as part of
The Anatomy of Speed With CE Exam package that includes both the book and the exam.

Review

“What is the largest difference between great players in high school, college, and the pro level? I would argue that it is speed. When muscles contract, they create force and stiffness. Thus, speed only comes with optimal sequencing of rapid muscle pulsing into activation for force development and rapid relaxation for muscle length changes. Bill Parisi has coached speed in many sports and at all levels of athletic development. His success speaks for itself. In The Anatomy of Speed
he has integrated science and his coaching skills into a consumable text with an approach that will work for anyone wanting more speed.”

—Stuart McGill, Professor Emeritus and Author of
Back Mechanic and
Low Back Disorders

“The Anatomy of Speed
contains proven speed training concepts that I have successfully used throughout my 40-year career as a Division I college and NFL strength and conditioning coach. Bill Parisi combines the evidence-based principles behind them, with the latest science on speed training, and serves it up in an engaging, practical way that coaches and athletes of all types can easily understand and use. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to improve speed, agility, and quickness.”

—Mike Woicik, Six-Time Super Bowl Champion and Former Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots

“Everyone knows t