Whether you’re new to the fitness world or you’re a seasoned professional, chances are you’re familiar with the concept of ‘remedial massage’. We can all agree that it sounds beneficial, but let’s be honest, between tight budgets, workloads and lockdowns, escaping for a remedial massage isn’t always plausible.
With the right tools, the benefits of remedial massage are widely accessible from the comfort of your own home! And the best part? They can go a long way in maximising your performance in and out of the gym.
With remedial and mobility products like foam rollers, massage sticks and massage balls readily available, they are incredibly worthwhile additions to your routine.
What does remedial work do?
These types of remedial tools help to facilitate self-massage. When used correctly, they mimic some of the key principles that you would find in a remedial massage setting. Whether you’re using a foam roller or a massage ball, the collective purpose is myofascial release, which helps to reduce muscle stiffness and soreness.
By adding sensible pressure and rolling over specific muscle groups, you help to increase blood flow and reduce tissue tension. When done regularly, this helps to increase your range of movement, while also improving circulation, recovery and performance.
A consistent routine is key! Rolling pre and post workout is ideal as it prepares your muscles for the activities ahead while also helping them to recover, minimising aches and pains.
Why is it important?
While fitness and regular exercise are crucial to staying mobile and flexible, we need to remember that remedial work is just as important.
Never fear – you don’t need to spend a huge amount of time rolling every inch of your body. Even a few minutes of rolling can help ease tension and make your muscles more receptive to stretching. Consider remedial work as a “primer” for your muscles, helping them to perform at their best in and out of the gym.
Who is it most beneficial for?
Everyone can benefit from making remedial work a regular part of their routine. The key is to make it a habit!
Remedial work, such as foam rolling, can be done daily on any muscle group. Make no mistake, it is not solely for athletes or training enthusiasts; it’s actually a great tool for combating daily stress and tension.
Ready to roll but not sure when?
Why not try:
1) Pre-Training: It’s a sure-fire way to prepare for the activity ahead, reducing any tension and increasing blood flow.
2) Post-Training: to minimise any muscle soreness or stiffness.
3) Before bed: to promote a better sleep! Daily tension can have a dramatic impact on the quality of our sleep, so rolling out those tensions can pave the way for greater relaxation.
It’s not uncommon to have a ‘love/hate’ relationship with rolling. It is notorious for causing some mild discomfort in areas that are quite stiff. When targeting a specific muscle, you should start to feel the tenderness dissipate; however, it is not advised to roll over any known injuries. If in doubt, best to consult with your physiotherapist.
