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.
If you, like most Americans, carry your tension in your upper trapezius, or between the shoulder blades, a foam roller can provide relief. The key to utilizing the foam roller is to go slow and work your way into it. It is much like working for flexibility. At first, you may not be able to relax as much as is necessary to observe the benefits of a foam roller. Once you have achieved sufficient relaxation, you will want to find the problem areas throughout your body and spend time on those areas. Once you become comfortable with the foam roller, you will be able to use it to help with flexibility and recovery.
If you are interested in learning more about how to use a foam roller to take your workouts to the next level and reduce your soreness, contact me via e-mail @ spencer@blackcloverfitness.com or via phone at (402)689-5378.
If you are looking for an excellent gym and highly motivated trainers that will create a program based on your specific health and fitness goals, then I highly recommend Black Clover Fitness! Trevor (owner) responds quickly to inquiries, evaluating your needs and identifying your goals. He will set you with a successful trainer and program. He makes you feel like part of the family immediately.
As someone who had not done any type of exercise for many years, private/semiprivate training was just what I needed to get started working toward my fitness goals.
Working with Jordan over the past several months has been awesome! His patience and friendliness make you feel comfortable immediately. He has such a positive outlook and that is conveyed throughout every workout. The individualized program that he has created and continues to build on has been instrumental in me achieving great gains in strength, coordination, flexibility, and endurance! After every training session, I feel accomplished and empowered.
Today, I am participating in fitness activities that I could not do a year ago! It just took a partnership with a great gym and trainer!
Caleb Lowery
Started with Black Clover Fitness around August of 2020. Was at 310 pounds, my energy was decreasing and was worried if I would be around to walk my daughters down the aisle (many years from now..).
Have lost 60 pounds and gained far more energy that has increased overall happiness in my life. This would not be without the support and structure that Black Clover Fitness offers.
Come see Trevor, Chris and his team. Plus, everyone at the 5am or 6am time slots, we all pretty cool!!!
Brooke Zacharias
Black Clover Fitness is an excellent gym with knowledgeable, positive, and motivational trainers!
As someone who had little to no gym experience when joining BCF almost two years ago, I can attest to how amazing the trainers are. They took the time to educate me on how to use equipment properly and what to focus on in order to reach my goals. They did all of this without belittling me or making me feel like I didn't belong. I have gained knowledge, strength, confidence, and friendships since joining. Additionally, the atmosphere is extremely positive! I enjoy going to BCF in the mornings and seeing the bright smiles from the other gym members and the trainers.