In the past year two articles were published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy about foam rolling and performance. Foam rolling is a self- administered technique often used to increase range of motion and is found to be part of many weight room and pre-activity rituals.
Researchers examined the effect of foam rolling during the inter-set rest period during sets of knee extensions while training. In both studies when foam rolling the quadricep or foam rolling the hamstrings between exercise bouts, the process decreased maximum repetition performance compared to the control groups. Based on these results there are implications in foam rolling prescription for rehabilitation and for athletic populations.
Foam rolling does effect the fascia surrounding the musculature - how, when and why this exercise tool is added to a program must be well thought out to Get Strong.
