There are a lot of $15 treats you could purchase for yourself: a Forever 21 necklace, a nice bottle of wine, new CD on itunes, or the shipping charges on your new Victoria’s Secret bathingsuit you just ordered online. OR you can purchase a FOAM ROLLER! If you’ve never heard of one, you definitely need to keep reading.
A FOAM ROLLER is “self myofascial release”. The fascia is a soft-tissue covering for the body’s connective tissue, including the muscles. The fascia is subject to overuse, trauma and tension. You gently roll the foam roller over the affected area to stretch and release the fascia. Basically, it is a self-massage. The technique is simple and nearly self-explanatory. Get a foam roller and use your bodyweight to apply pressure to sore spots. Kind of a self-accupresssure technique.
You will have to feel out the roller if it’s your first time, and go up or down in hardness if it’s too much for you. Foam rolling could cause discomfort, but should never cause bruising. Roll before and after workouts, or while you’re watching TV, or right when you wake up. It’s definitely something to do daily!
best part: Since foam rolling smooths out abrasions in restricted facia, it has proven to improve the texture and quality of your skin. In other words, Cellulite! Although the effects may only be temporary, performing these exercises 2-3x a week will maintain the benefits.
ACTION: Check out this VIDEO by Exercise TV for a breakdown on the best exercises and perform them about 2 – 3 times a week.
