The Benefits of foam rolling
Who benefits from massage?
I certainly do! I have to admit I am a sucker for a good massage. The results they have on my body are amazing, I swear by them. Having regular massages has definitely helped aid the development of my flexibility over the last 30 years!
When you are active, knots and tightness present themselves on your muscles, which make it harder to maintain or improve flexibility. Getting regular massages can help this issue and will help to keep the muscles in a more relaxed state.Massage for the muscles include greater relaxation, a decrease in knots, a decrease in tension and an increase in blood supply. All of these benefits perfectly prime the muscle, to achieve an increase in muscle length during a stretch.
Just roll with it!
Now I know that massages aren’t cheap, and not everyone can afford to go to a masseuse every other week, but there is a way in which you can massage your muscles yourself; Foam Rolling, or self Myofascial!
A foam roller looks like a large foam tube and to use it, you slowly roll an area of your body (your back, calves, quads or hamstrings) back and forth across the top of the roller.
The theory behind this is that the sustained pressure on the muscle signals the central nervous system to reduce tension, similar to the effect of a deep tissue massage. So in theory, by releasing tension within your muscles, your muscles will be more receptive to stretching.
Most people will benefit from foam rolling as part of a pre, or post-workout routine. You can also do this as a break from sitting at a desk all day, or for active recovery on your rest day.
If you’ve never used a foam roller before, I highly recommend you getting one, and if you already have one… you know how important they are.
I literally don’t go anywhere without mine!
From on set, to training, they are a must-have. Especially if you are serious about muscle rehab and recovery.
If you are looking for help on how to foam roll efficiently , please check out my 18 minute follow along video below:
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