Myofascial Release on Foam Roller of Calf Complex
This is a follow-up to last week’s article on myofascial release. I think of it as a scientific term for stretching. In addition to pain relief, it also helps improve range of motion, mobility, and ultimately performance. In this video I’m demonstrating how to do some simple myofascial release on a foam roller. This rolling technique down the length of the calf will allow the muscle to release, ultimately increasing flexibility.
The area to focus on for this stretch is between the ankle and the knee. If you can tolerate the additional pressure, lift your bottom off the floor to allow for more pressure on the calf muscle. Start at the top of your calf muscle, just below the knee, then roll down until just before you get to the ankle. This scanning technique will allow you to locate the tightest areas of the calf, then you can go back to those areas. You can either simply hold on the tight areas or do short rolls over them to get the muscle to release.
Other Myofascial Release Tools
The foam roller can be used all over the body, just avoid direct pressure on the spine. I prefer to use it on the larger muscles of the body like the backs, front, and sides of the legs. Other tools can also be used, which sometimes work better because of their smaller size. Some foam rollers are even designed with a split format to allow you to roll areas like your back without interfering with your spine.
Next week I’ll post another video showing you how to perform myofascial release but this time using a tennis ball. It works great on some of the smaller muscles of the back, like the rhomboids. These are simple techniques you can do in just a few moments a day. The payoff can be huge if you just stick with it and stay consistent. See you back here next week, and remember to live life to the optimum!
Melissa
OptimumCondition.com
(619) 252-4993
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