Avid readers know that we believe in the importance of foam rolling. This activity that we do prior to and after a workout (even throughout the day as needed especially as we WFH), allows you to initiate self-administered myofascial release (SMR) which is essentially a deep tissue massage. Simply put, you work off of a device by moving your body on it in various positions with your body weight also doing a lot of the work for you.
A recent study conducted by the American Council on Exercise confirmed that foam rolling is great for increasing flexibility and is a great option for warming up to improve flexibility before a workout. Additionally, it didn't negatively affect agility and vertical jump height and made participants feel better overall.
Interested in incorporating foam rolling in your exercise routine? Here are a few tips:
Roll over the muscle slowly so you can identify areas that are tight or “hot.” When you find these areas, support more of your body weight with your arms or opposite leg and breathe deeply as you apply pressure gently.
Avoid rolling over your joints. Keep the foam roller on soft tissue only.
Stay on one spot for one or two breaths. Then move an inch higher or lower, to the right or left. If you don’t find anything in that direction, move an inch in another direction and repeat this process.
