We get this question all the time: "Should I foam roll before exercise?"
Yes, but the reason may not be what you think it is.
Let's get one thing straight - we ARE NOT breaking up scar tissue. Research has shown us that it takes upwards of 2000 pounds per square inch to deform the IT Band. Trust me, that would hurt WAY more than foam rolling, so clearly we aren't doing that.
What we ARE doing is:
- Desensitizing and Downregulating the Nervous System.
- Increasing Tissue Temperature and Blood Flow.
- Increasing Fluid Movement Between Tissues - Muscles and Fascia.
- Preparing the Body to MOVE.
So, YES, there is value in foam rolling prior to exercise as part of a complete warm up.
If you want to know how to best utilize the foam roller as part of your warm up, you can look through our other videos, or make an appointment with one of our Performance Physios - either in person or virtual!
What is your experience with foam rolling? Leave us your thoughts in the comments!
