Foam rolling,
a form of self-massage, is a newly popularized method of exercise recovery.
Although this technique has been used by professional athletes and physical
therapists for many decades, the benefits of using a foam roller are appearing
more in mainstream media.
The method of
action behind foam rolling is applying moderate pressure to muscles to relieve
tightness or knots. These muscle ailments can be the result of minor “overuse”
injuries—that is, the soreness you get from working out a muscle too much—
even sitting or sleeping incorrectly. Although applying pressure to these sore
areas might cause some pain or discomfort, it should feel comparable to
stretching: uncomfortable at first but relieving once you’ve finished the
exercise.
But the
benefits of foam rolling do not end at relieving muscle soreness or knots. This
technique can also help increase flexibility and add a greater range of motion
during exercise. Since this self-massage increases blood flow, you can also use
it as part of your warm up or cool down routine—promoting a faster recovery
time and even decreasing the chance of injury.
Bottom Line:
Incorporating a foam roller into your workout routine can have a multitude of
benefits and may prove to be more effective than stretching alone. With the
sudden increase in popularity of these rollers, you can now find one on the market for as little
as $10. If you’re interested in foam rolling, consult your doctor, physical
therapist or coach to learn the proper form and technique for your specific
body needs.
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