Accessory Review: The Speed Stik, by Jeffrey Reed

Faster clubhead speed equals longer distance. It’s not rocket science, but it’s the proven formula behind the Speed Stik. You’ve no doubt seen the infomercials featuring Vijay Singh swinging this training aid. If it’s good enough for Vijay, it’s good enough for us mere mortals, right?

There are two Speed Stik models to choose from: the 24-ounce red model, if you weigh more than 175 pounds; and the 19-ounce blue model for you lightweights. Longer and heavier than a golf club, the Speed Stik is a simple but effective tool. A speed gauge inside the end of the tubular device displays your swing speed. To reset it, lightly tap the handle end on the ground. There’s a metal reset button which slides up and down the inside of the speed gauge shaft, which resets the red foam speed swing indicator.

Singh trains by first swinging the red Speed Stik for three minutes, then the blue model for two minutes. Designed with the faster-equals-farther equation in mind, the Speed Stik is advertised to improve swing efficiency, strengthen golf-specific muscles, increase flexibility and range of motion, enhance and improve sense of balance, and promote a feeling of power and an “aggressive and confident mind set.”

Complete with an instructional video, the Speed Stik can be used outdoors and indoors. Of course, you’ll need a high ceiling, and you’ll need to push aside that priceless Ming vase and tin trophy you won at the company best-ball tournament. I braved the snow and swung the Speed Stik in my backyard. Of course, like it’s concept, it’s easy to use and can certainly help you limber up before an afternoon at the range or morning on the links. In my case, it helped conjure up memories of an afternoon in the sun, while getting the blood flowing on a cold winter’s day.

The Speed Stik sells for $99.99. Read more about this training aid at www.thespeedstik.com.