The Flexibility Benefits of Foam Rolling and Stretching

The Flexibility Benefits of Foam Rolling and Stretching

October 23, 2018

Our bodies are capable of incredible things, but there is always room for improvement. One of the best ways to maximize the impact of your workouts is to focus on treating your muscles before and after exercise. Foam rolling and stretching are both useful tools that can help alleviate muscle tension, promote strength and improve flexibility, but it’s important to understand how to use both of these methods effectively to keep your muscles in the best shape possible. Below are some tips from a gym trainer in Phoenix, AZ.

Foam rolling

Many people use foam rollers to soften muscle tissue before and after workouts. When you use foam rollers, you promote blood flow to your muscles, which helps warm up your muscles before a workout and relaxes them afterwards. In addition to warming up your muscles and alleviating tension, foam rolling can also improve flexibility. Even a few minutes of foam rolling before a workout can increase your range of motion and help you get more out of your exercises. A gym trainer in Phoenix, AX can help you perfect your foam rolling technique to get the best benefits possible.

Another great thing about foam rolling is that you have a lot of control over its intensity. Depending on how you position the roller and how much pressure you apply, you can vary the intensity of your foam rolling based on the muscle groups you are targeting. For the best results, try foam rolling for five to 10 minutes before a workout and another five to 10 minutes after. Try to relax your body as much as possible and make sure to pay attention to how you feel. It’s normal for foam rolling to feel uncomfortable, but if you feel lots of pain when you target a particular muscle group, avoid using the foam roller there until the area has recovered further.

Stretching

Stretching can improve circulation and alleviate tension in some of the same ways that foam rolling does, but its primary benefit is the fact that it can improve your range of motion. During stretches, you promote the regeneration of the fascia in your muscles, which elongates them. Consistent, targeted stretching can make a huge difference when it comes to your range of motion and flexibility.

While many people choose to stretch before a workout, this isn’t always the best way to get results from your physical activity. In fact, prolonged stretching prior to a workout can cause your muscles to freeze up and inhibit your performance. To get the most out of stretching, save it for a post-workout cool-down, and commit to holding each stretch for about a minute. You can get advice on specific stretch positions and routines by working with a gym trainer in Phoenix, AZ who can provide specific recommendations for your needs.

Work with a gym trainer in Phoenix, AZ

At Pamela Young Fitness, we know that everyone has different abilities and goals when it comes to their physical performance, and we are here to help our clients reach those goals. We’ve been helping our clients achieve their fitness aims with exceptional services at affordable rates since 2006. Ever since we opened our doors, we’ve been committed to the success of our clients through personal training, group fitness classes and corrective exercises. Stop by today or give us a call to find out more about what we have to offer.

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