Benefits of Foam Rolling When Exercising

by Lizzie Griffin in Training

foam rolling / exercise

The benefits of foam rolling have to do with the mobility of the fascia. Fascia is a fibrous layer of connective tissue that surrounds all of the muscles in our body. Without proper mobility, fibres of the fascia become cross linked and they bind to muscles and nerves, inhibiting normal motion and causing pain.

Below are 7 benefits as to why foam rolling should be added to your workouts or daily routines.

Prevents injury and helps with recovery.

One of the most important reasons for a regular foam rolling routine is to prevent those often too common exercise-related injuries. Foam rolling works in the same way as stretching would after a workout however foam rolling gets deeper and lengthens more muscle fibres.

Break up scar tissue.

Scar tissue from past injuries will inhibit normal tissue mobility and function. You might be able to continue running because the body will compensate, but there are underlying issues of tissue mobility that might affect you down the line in your training.

If you are running (or doing any sort of exercise) on a regular basis, it’s important to keep muscles and fascia healthy and mobile. It might help prevent some of those injuries that pop up during training when you thought you were feeling fine.

Improves mobility and flexibility.

Whilst foam rolling you are stretching and lengthening the muscle which in turn helps improve overall range of movement. If you have a tight spot you’ll certainly know about it with a foam roller.

Saves you money.

Foam rolling works similarly to how a deep tissue massage works its just a cheap way of keeping your injuries at bay.

Not just fitness – it’s great for desk jockeys too.

Perfect for people that sit at a desk all day long or spend hours driving in the car. Will help improve posture imbalances by working on tight adhesions in the muscles that you can isolate with a foam roller.

Stress relief.

Same as a nice massage would relieve you of stress, foam rolling has the same benefits. So go get yourself a foam roller, if you have one then get it out the attic and start using it J

Increases blood circulation.

Healthy blood flow is necessary for healthy tissue and organ function because it permits the continuous exchange of nutrients and waste in the cells, and the stimulation of fluid through the lymphatic system, an important part of your immune system.