Anyone who has ever experienced muscle soreness can attest, there is nothing fun about being sore. For many frequent exercisers, they are looking for the best way to prevent and treat soreness. While a foam roller cannot help with DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), a foam roller can be a valuable tool for reducing soreness immediately after a hard workout. From professional athletes to fitness fanatics, the foam roller is a vital tool in their repertoire. However, there are many ways to misuse a foam roller. First of all, you will want to select a foam roller with the proper density. The density of the foam roller makes all the difference in the world. For someone using a foam roller for the first time, you will want to select a softer foam roller. This will ensure the right amount of “give” in the material. A foam roller that is too dense will cause extreme discomfort and can even cause damage to tissues if used improperly. If you have used a foam roller before but simply aren’t experiencing the relief you’ve come to expect, it may be time to purchase a new roller. The foam roller that I currently use has grooves and knobs to help isolate specific areas.
