I've always loved being active. I played sports in school (volleyball, track, cheer leading - yes, it IS a sport!), and started running 5 and 10k races and eventually upped my distances to half marathons. With the help of Team In Training, I completed my first marathon, triathlon and century cycle rides. Little did I know, I was missing a tool in my tool box. Something that could have improved strength and flexibility and muscle recovery.
THE FOAM ROLLER.
Apparently, I was way out of the loop. I've heard people talking about it, but figured it was something recommended by their PT or was specifically for some injury they had. Turns out, foam rolling is for anyone! Ben introduced me to the foam roller after a tough workout. YOWSAH. Who knew that your muscles and tendons got so tight? He explained to me that by breaking up the "knots" in your muscles, you increase the blood flow, which allows the tissue to heal. He used his hands folded together to show me. Interlace your fingers and then twist slightly. It looks like a section of the Rocky Mountains. As you start to straighten your hands out, your fingers can lay straighter and smoother. He explained that long, lean, muscles are more flexible, stronger and give the desired look we're all chasing.
It's easy, they are inexpensive, and can really help to speed recovery after a tough run or workout. You can purchase foam rollers from a wide variety of retailers, including Target, Walmart and Amazon.com, and they are a really affordable addition to your fitness tool box.
Here's an info graphic I found that lays it out for you! Roll with it!
So, give this roll a try! It doesn't feel like a relaxing massage - in fact, it can be a bear (putting pressure on tight/sore spots doesn't tickle), but like ice baths - the results are well worth the temporary discomfort.
Happy rolling!
<3 Jen
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