After reading and hearing about foam rollers for awhile I finally used one for the first time yesterday afternoon.  Foam rollers offer the same benefits as sports massage by easing tight muscles through myofascial release.  Adhesion’s in the muscles can cause pain, tightness and restricted range of motion.  By using the foam roller for self massage you can break up these adhesion’s which helps to increase flexibility and decrease joint and muscle pain.   About.com has a great article on the foam rollers:  http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/flexibilityandstretching/ss/FoamRoller.htm


Massaging my quadriceps



Massaging my calves



Even Abby performed self-massage with the foam roller!

     I really felt a difference in my muscles this morning, they were less sore than they normally are after running.  I plan to incorporate foam rolling into my routine 4-5 times a week. 
    
     Do you use a foam roller and how often do you use it?

    Today’s training was power Vinyasa Yoga with Baron Baptiste.  This particular yoga workout perfectly compliments my running routine.  Some people feel yoga is a waste of time and that it is not a “real” workout but that is completely untrue.  Yoga not only stretches but it also stenghthens every muscle in your body.  It also helps to clear and focus your mind, reducing the stress that occurs from everyday living.  Anyone looking for an active meditative workout should try power yoga. 
     
     Do you practice yoga?  What type of yoga is your favorite?

     Tomorrow is my LSD 8 mile training run.  I was hoping to be able to run it outside but the weather is looking ominous for tomorrow with heavy rain in the forecast.  I guess I will have to run it on the treadmill…blah.

     How do you get through long runs on the treadmill?