Foam Rolling Exercises

Soleus/Calf
Foam Rolling: Soleus/Calf

Tight muscles in the lower leg can cause issues while walking, which can have an impact on other areas of the body. This exercise is a great way to keep these muscles loose.

Exercise: Place the roller under your mid-calf and roll until you find a tender spot. Stay on that spot for at least 30 seconds, or until your discomfort is reduced.

I.T. Band
Foam Rolling: I.T. Band

Tight IT bands are usually caused by prolonged sitting or overactive, tight muscles on the hip. Use this foam roller for the hips and IT band. 

Exercise: Lie on your side and roll from your hip to your knee until you find a tender spot. Stay on that spot for at least 30 seconds, or until your discomfort is reduced.

Adductors
Foam Rolling: Adductors

This muscle group (adductors) is inhibited on nearly everyone who sits for long periods of time.

Exercise: Start by placing the roller halfway between the groin and knee, rolling until you find a tender spot. Stay on that spot for at least 30 seconds, or until your discomfort is reduced.

Piriformis
Foam Rolling: Piriformis

Lower back pain can be related to many factors, including tight lateral rotators like the piriformis. Use this foam roller for the lower back. 

Exercise: Sitting on the roller, cross your ankle over the knee and roll the outside of the hip until you find a tender spot. Stay on that spot for at least 30 seconds, or until your discomfort is reduced.

Lats
Foam Rolling: Lats

Prolonged sitting can lead to the lats becoming tight. 

Exercise: Lie on one side with the roller near your armpit, arm extended and thumb up. Slowly roll along the side toward your waist until you find a tender spot. Stay on that spot for at least 30 seconds, or until your discomfort is reduced.

Back
Foam Rolling: Back

Prolonged sitting can lead to tightness in the mid-back.

Exercise: Placing the roller under your mid-back, slowly roll until you find a tender spot. Stay on that spot for at least 30 seconds, or until your discomfort is reduced.