Using a foam roller - video

[g-boaf]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nO1VRTv-GJs" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

From Garmin-Sharp's website is that fairly informative video. It's a little different to the way I've used one.

[Dave R32]

Thanks for posting this. I am treating very tight ITB's and glutes at the moment, good to see another technique.

Cheers
Dave.

[TheBikeShed]

I've never seen this method before, but I really like it! I've always used the more traditional "roll up and down the muscle" method, which seems to work pretty well. I would imagine that the side-to-side action of this one probably pushes between muscle fibres that have seized up and gotten tight (which is probably pretty common when you ride as much as the Garmin-Sharp guys do!). I wonder how this compares to using something like rumble roller or a GooseBumps ball (my favorite calf-loosening tool). I'll have to give it a shot!

[g-boaf]

I don't know how it works with the side to side method. I've tried that with a rumble roller last night and didn't really feel anything. Though I did feel some knots or seized up bits elsewhere and managed to free them up just with the normal methods.

Wonder if the side to side is to do with just that particular roller?

[m1a7]

For you iPhone users out there, there's an excellent app called 'Foam Rolling''. Developed by Jono Freeman, an Aussie exercise physiologist/strength and conditioning coach.
Very extensive list of exercises for all muscle groups, with great pictures, how-to videos and even an inbuilt timer!