Why are foam roller exercises becoming so popular?

I'm often talking about using a foam roller to help perform 'self massage' in between treatments at the clinic.

Increasingly I've seen more and more gyms adding 'foam rollers' to their equipment list. You will normally find them in the gym by the matted area used for core and stretching work.

Foam rollers are hugely popular as they are a great way to improve your mobility and 'tissue quality' at home.

Below is a very clear video, by Alex Poole a strength and conditioning coach based in Bristol demonstarting how to use the foam roller.

The video shows him rolling the following areas:

1. IT Band
2. Quadriceps (front of thigh)
3. Adductor (groin)
4. Gluteal
5. Upper back (thoracic region)

There are additional area's that will benefit from foam rolling, but these 5 are a good place to start.

You can buy foam rollers direct from http://www.physiosupplies.com. Get the Blue 15cm by 90cm size.

If you have any questions email me at office@theringwoodclinic.co.uk.

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