Why We Love Foam Rollers

Foam Rollers have become a staple in gyms and clinics all over the country. So why are healthcare and exercise professionals so fond of these cylindrical entities?

Let’s break it down:

1. They’re multi-taskers

Foam rollers are great for relieving discomfort and pain by loosening tight musculature and relieving aching knots. But did you also know that rolling after a workout can reduce delayed onset muscle soreness, the kind that sets in 36-48 hours following a workout? And rolling before your workout can help free up shortened tissues allowing your joints and muscles to work in an ideal way; it can actually help you move better. There are also techniques to help you relieve tension and simply relax.

2. They’re low risk

There are very few ways to hurt yourself using a foam roller. The few precautions include: avoid rolling directly over bone; avoid areas of known orthopedic injury unless otherwise directed; and watch out for clothing and hair getting stuck under it as you roll.

3. They’re great for self-treatment

Doing self-therapy between clinic visits is the best way to make progress on those nagging injuries, or prevent them from coming back.  Foam rolling is a great way for you to be in control of your own treatment. If you’re going to abuse your body, you better give it some TLC too!

4. They’re easy to use, once you know how

Foam rollers can be used by anyone, anytime, and can hardly be overused. They are most effective, however, when used properly. Many times people have access to one but don’t know how to use it. In our clinic, we have foam roller handouts that you can stop by and grab any day!   Our Head 2 Toe Facebook page has instructional videos on foam rolling which you should check out our Facebook! I also encourage you to experiment with your roller. Use the handout as a guide but move your leg a little to either side, lean to one side or the other, move your arm further up or down and see what feels right to you. Small differences in angles can expose smaller muscles hiding under larger ones. So experiment, find those spots that hurt so good.

5. The more you use it, the more you like it

There is a deep love-hate relationship that begins with someone and their foam roller. At first, it’s moderately uncomfortable to use, like when someone pushes on that knot in your back and it’s painful but feels good at the same time. But a funny thing happens when you use your roller regularly; the relationship weighs more towards love-love. Dare I say it becomes addicting! You find yourself sitting at work wishing you had one hidden under your desk. So if you’re new to the experience keep in mind that it will get better. Much, much better.

We have foam rollers for sale at Head2Toe! Ask about it at your next visit or pop in any time during business hours to start your foam rolling relationship.

Written by Head 2 Toe Staff