On A Roll

I’ve usually been one to look at a foam roller and kind of just awkwardly ignore it. Not that I don’t like them but it’s just inconvenient for some reason.

What I’ve noticed recently is that I’m constantly active, whether it’s strength training or running and so my legs are being worked almost six days per week. They’ve definitely been feeling more sore than usual and I’m having to convince myself that it’s okay to go running when I'm sore.

The science shows that foam rolling just 90 to 120 seconds (so less than two minutes per muscle group) can reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) plus increase flexibility and performance before a workout.

In addition to the muscular benefits, it can also be a great way to cool down after a workout, engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, before heading into your next activity.

I’m also trying to think of it as a free massage.