Anyone can benefit from the effects of foam rolling, whether you’re an intense athlete in training or someone stuck behind a desk all day. The act of foam rolling stretches and loosens sore or tight muscles to improve mobility and reduce joint pain. It should be done before and after a workout, or whenever tension in your muscles needs to be relieved. Here are the five major benefits that result from foam rolling.
Increases Circulation
Through the application of force on your muscles and tissue over a long period of time, any blood within is squeezed out and replaced with fresh blood. Vital nutrients are carried within your bloodstream, including oxygen and glycogen. These nutrients are sent to tired muscles and the more blood that’s flowing through your veins, the more nutrients that are present to help repair tired muscles.
Improves Mobility and Flexibility
There’s less friction present between muscles that are well hydrated and loosened up. This results in smoother movements during a workout, with less pulling of the muscles which can damage them. This is where foam rolling before a workout is most effective. Using proper techniques and going slowly will also stretch your muscles, improving your range of motion over time.
Lowers Risk of Injury
With more flexible muscles and better blood flow, you’re less likely to injure yourself during a workout or other strenuous activities. Your body’s coordination is improved when foam rolling is added to your routine. However, if you do injure yourself, foam rolling can aid in reducing the time it takes for your muscles to heal.
Lowers recovery time
As foam rolling brings more blood into your injured muscles, the nutrients within will help to reduce the time it takes for them to properly heal. Rolling your muscles after a workout is the most efficient way to achieve this. Your body is often sore after exercising, depending on how intense the session was. This is partly because of the build-up of lactic acid in your muscles and joints. Foam rolling gets rid of the acid as fresh blood enters the tired muscles. The faster this happens, the faster the muscles can rebuild and you can comfortably go about your day-to-day routine.
Faster Physical Results
With a lower recovery time, better mobility and flexibility thanks to foam rolling on a regular basis, you’ll be able to exercise more frequently without worrying about soreness and muscle strain. An increased rate of exercise leads to faster results in whichever areas you’re working to improve.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort that foam rolling just can’t seem to fix, then it’s time to visit Dundas Chiropractic Center. Located in Oakville, Ontario, our trained specialists accept new patients and any chiropractic emergencies you may have. At our clinic, we offer services that include chiropractic care, massage therapy, spinal decompression, orthotics and foot care, acupuncture and more. Call or book an appointment online, as new patients get 15% off their first treatment.
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