Foam Roller Fun

This week, I went to what can only be described as a brutal bootcamp. Think: suicide bear crawls and TRX hip lifts. While stretching, someone suggested doing a few minutes of foam roller afterwards, and I readily agreed.

(Image from Rumble Roller.)

Honestly, I've never understood what a foam roller does exactly, other than it delivers a sort of hurts so good pain. To manage your expectations a bit, you will not be smiling when you use a foam roller. My expression is more of a grimace, eyes closed, hoping no one is watching me. Foam rolling helps your muscles recover, so these exercises are very important, especially after an intense session where you know you're going to be sore the next day!

Shape Magazine recently posted a how-to video for foam rollers that I find pretty helpful. The main thing to keep in mind is to keep shifting your weight around until you find the sweet spot for you - it will be different for everyone and depending on your recent workouts. Enjoy!