Foam rolling boasts many health and fitness benefits, especially when feeling sore or stiff after a workout. A foam roller is a simple tool that can alleviate these symptoms and promote better health and mobility. Another perk? It can take as little as a few minutes a day to reap the benefits.
Related Blog: Three Exercises to Help Reverse Bad Posture
Let’s look at four major health and wellness benefits to foam rolling.
What is Foam Rolling?
Foam rolling is a self-therapy technique using a piece of equipment called a foam roller. These are typically light in weight and are available in a variety of sizes, lengths and textures to suit each area of the body, from your head to your feet.
Foam rolling, also known as self-myofascial release, is comparable to a massage as it targets tense areas of the body and works to alleviate the pain and tightness within. This relief method can help with systems from many different health conditions, such as arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia, pelvic conditions and more, along with the wear and tear of everyday activities.
Popular areas of the body to foam roll include the back, shoulders, glutes, thighs, calves, and neck. Though, with the correct size foam roller, you can roll out nearly any part of your body – even your feet.
What are the Benefits of Foam Rolling?
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Alleviates Muscle Pain
One of the biggest takeaways of foam rolling is the great alleviation of muscle pain. Whether you suffer from an injury or want to help the recovery of your muscles after a workout, foam rolling helps to promote oxygen and blood flow to the muscle and assists in avoiding stiffness. Furthermore, it can break up scar tissue from an injury or surgery.
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Improves Posture
There’s no doubt that your spine is important, so naturally, it’s essential to keep it healthy and mobile in check. This starts with proper posture. Laying parallel on top of a foam roller each day is a great way to correct slouched posture over time. Make sure your arms are spread out wide next to you to feel the full effects and get that maximum stretch.
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Increases Flexibility
Speaking of stretching, foam rolling is very beneficial when it comes to promoting flexibility. The foam roller is great when slowly grazing your limbs and muscles to elongate them. This, in turn, can increase your range of motion.
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Increases Performance
According to BridgeBlog, “foam rolling is a productive way to enhance athletic performance by helping muscles warm up, prepare for daily workouts, and recover more efficiently after exercising.” This self-massage can prep your body for a workout and help you wind down. So, if you’re tired of simple stretches to start blood flow, get on the ground and start rolling.
Foam Rolling Positions
Just like chair yoga, it’s easier to see techniques of foam rolling than to read about them. Reference the guide below for various positions. Remember, don’t strain yourself and go slow when rolling out your body.
Whether you’re an athlete, a newbie, or someone who is recovering from a physical health condition/injury, chances are you can benefit from foam rolling. At the very least, it should feel nice and relaxing.
To reap all the positive effects of foam rolling, Moorings Park Community members can visit the fitness centers and work with one of our highly trained fitness specialists.
Learn more about all Moorings Park Communities has to offer members in terms of leading a happier, healthier life by visiting MooringsPark.org or calling 239-643-9111.
