The Surprising Health Benefits of Foam Rolling

Foam rolling, also known as self myofascial release, is a staple in any athlete’s workout. This form of massage helps relieve muscle tension and speeds up recovery. It’s widely practiced by physiotherapists, fitness models, endurance athletes, and those offering personal training services. All you need is a foam roller or lacrosse ball.

What Is Foam Rolling?

This massage technique has emerged as the cure-all for muscle aches and trigger points. Its role is to inhibit overactive muscles and break up scar tissue, leading to faster recovery post workout. Foam rollers allow you to give yourself a deep tissue massage and accelerate healing.

Self-myofascial release increases range of motion and blood flow by applying a low load dragging force across the fascia. Also called the “poor man’s massage,” this therapy enhances the viscoelastic properties of muscle and boosts your flexibility. It also restores muscle function, lowers inflammation, and prepares your body for intense training. Foam rollers are a convenient alternative to physiotherapy and traditional massage.

Why Use Foam Rolling?

This form of therapy benefits people of all ages and activity levels. When done regularly, it improves circulation, prevents injuries, and boosts mobility. These factors combined lead to enhanced athletic performance and shorter recovery periods. Anyone can use foam rolling to get rid of tight muscles and reduce soreness after exercise.

The form roller can be used on most muscles, including the quads, adductors, latissimus dorsi, hip flexors, calves, and traps. Ideally, you should apply pressure on the trigger points or tender areas for 30 seconds to one minute. Form rollers come in different sizes ranging from six to 36 inches in diameter. They are ideal for post workout recovery, iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), shin splints, lower back pain, and injury prevention. Many athletes actually use a foam roller as part of their stretching routine.