I recommend getting Anatomy Trains and Stretch to Win to begin with.
Anatomy Trains
Anatomy Trains is the theory behind SI and FST – fascial anatomy, body reading, and technique.
Stretch To Win
While Fascial Stretch Therapy (TM) is assisted stretching the book Stretch to Win is the at-home resource for self-care – evaluation and stretching. This book will enable you to develop a personalized stretching program based on the specific needs of your body. Many stretching books outline stretching but neglect the importance of an individualized and systematic approach.
Fascial Release for Structural Balance
Fascial Release for Structural Balance is a technique book and explains some of the ‘why’ behind the fascial techniques. This book by Tom Myers includes a lot of the techniques in Tom Myer’s SI program (KMI), but SI is about intention not technique. Massage therapists, yoga instructors, and trainers can all benefit from the technique book. To clarify they would be learning fascial release techniques, not SI. SI requires extensive study (500 hour program minimum after already having 3-4 years of experience in training, yoga or manipulative field). Technique book is a nice compliment to Anatomy Trains, I would recommend everyone start with Anatomy Trains first for a deeper understanding.
Overall Reading Order
Introduction
1 Anatomy Trains
2 Stretch To Win
3 Fascial Release for Structural Balance
1 & 2 for everyone, #3 for trainers/therapists after reading 1 & 2. #3 may not best for self-care, 1 & 2 would be more than adequate. So if you are a CrossFiter looking for self-care and at-home stretching – techniques and basic anatomy and understanding get 1 & 2. Anatomy Trains is a very complex book, take from it what is useful to you, don’t try to understand everything.
About the SI Series
Rolfing
Bodywise
Related
Eight Steps to a Pain-Free Back
The Chair
Tendon Nei-Kung
Academic
Energy Therapeutics
Fascia
Fascial Manipulation
The Endless Web
For Trainers/Therapists
Anatomy Trains & Stretch to Win
Fascial Release for Structural Balance
Body-reading Dvd
For Self-Care
Anatomy Trains & Stretch to Win
Eight Steps to a Pain-Free Back
