Questions about self-myofascial release

[Allen Yeh]

Originally Posted by Alan O'Donnell

Sorry, noob question, but what exactly does foam rolling do, and assuming it does it, what's the controversy?

I've done a little SMR since starting crossfit and have gotten a few clinical deep-tissue massages, but I can't say that I've noticed any improvement.

I've read a few items in regards to why people shouldn't SMR and typically it does seem to be people that have gone through the Z-Health system. I guess I just don't understand the objection as the few things I've read didn't seem to make sense to me.

I have found SMR to be helpful but I don't personally recommend PVC, IMO you would be better off with a high density foam roller. I do recommend using a tennis/lacrosse ball on places like calves, glutes, infraspinatus, arches of feet.

[Larry Herbert]

Originally Posted by Emily Mattes

I read that eventually, if you do SMR enough it will stop hurting. When does this happen? Does it happen if you're using PVC pipe instead of a foam roller?

Also, can you do it too much? Since I got my 4'' PVC pipe a week ago I've been doing it after every workout along with home sessions, for at total of at least two or three times a day. In addition I also roll a tennis ball and smaller PVC pipe over my quads while sitting around as they seem to give me the most trouble. Is this OK?

It seems 95% of the results on a google search of SMR and foam rolling returns "It's the greatest...." and how-to instructions and videos. Other than Ben Fury's anti-foam rolling post/article I found this informative piece written by John Izzo available on his site or here where I found it.
http://www.davedraper.com/fusionbb/f...g_How_Hard.pdf

[Emily Mattes]

I guess I should update, I'm pretty well accustomed to the PVC now and it has become a daily part of my post-workout routine. I'm in the middle of a squat cycle and there are definitely differences in my workouts the next day when I don't use it post-workout versus when I do.

[George Mounce]

Originally Posted by Larry Herbert

It seems 95% of the results on a google search of SMR and foam rolling returns "It's the greatest...." and how-to instructions and videos. Other than Ben Fury's anti-foam rolling post/article I found this informative piece written by John Izzo available on his site or here where I found it.
http://www.davedraper.com/fusionbb/f...g_How_Hard.pdf

Great article Larry, thank for sharing!