For years stretching was the standard method to decrease muscle tightness and improve flexibility prior to working out.

Now with foam rollers, athletes and fitness enthusiasts can instantly improve their workouts and decrease their risk of injury.

Foam roller exercises, also known as myofascial release, is a form of massage that fitness enthusiasts do before working out to loosen up sore muscles and tight joints, or after a workout in an effort to aid muscle recovery.

Myofascial release is the application of low intensity forces to soft tissue over a long period of time. The purpose is to allow contracted muscles to relax, which improves blood flow and nutrient flow to the area.

Because blood carries oxygen around the body, good circulation becomes crucial to overall health. Myofascial release can improve circulation buy breaking up the tight areas where blood flow may be restricted.

The main benefits of foam rolling are:

• Helps with Injury prevention
• Muscle Tension Release  
• Better blood circulation Helps develop better flexibility and joint range of movement
•  Helps with the breakdown of scar tissue from injury and exercise
• Helps with the removal of Lactic acid to help aid recovery
• Helps save money. If you can fix your problem with using a foam roller less you need to see a physio or get a sports massage
• Not just for fitness fanatics but also for people who work at a desk or generally stay sat for most of their day
• Roll directly where it hurts
• Keep the pace slow and controlled
• Don’t spend too much time in one area. Work your way around, the body.
• Warms the muscle so it becomes easier to stretch and mobilise

Need any help? A member of staff will be more than happy to show you how to use the foam roller!