Foam Roller density ???

[dbelden1]

I have done searches on this forum and have read many of the threads and posts on how to use the Foam Roller, instructional videos and this information has been wonderfully helpful! Thank you for all your hard work and research... leaving me more time to ponder other issues!

However, I did not see much mentioned about the density or circumference of the rollers... I purchased one last weekend from Sports Chalet. An Atlus 24" long and pretty thick ~ I would say 6-7" maybe but larger than the ones I have seen on YouTube and other demo sights, and it was $25 (so wouldn't consider this a low end product). I tried to use it once on my back (on the floor) and thought I was going to die! It was like rolling back and forth on a round piece of concrete! Comments I remember from the past threads and posts were "hurts so good", "painful, but in a good way" HUH??? that one had me stumped! lol

so my question is: Are there different levels of foam density or are they all about the same (hard as rocks)? I haven't seen many to compare too locally and wondered if the one I got was just standard and I need to get used to it and shut up (hee hee!) and learn to LOVE THE PAIN! or a if it is a cheap, hard foam and should be returned for something better..... are there were ones with more give out there that would give the desired results without the excessive pain I encountered.... or maybe I'm just a whimp!!!

 

[materialsgirl]

All the foam rollers I've seen (including my own) are pretty hard. If it's hurting you that much, trying easing up on the pressure you're using (don't put your entire body weight onto the roller at first - use your arms to support part of your weight). It shouldn't have you in tears! Also, keep in mind that it will hurt more the more knotty and tight your muscles are - it gets better as the muscles loosen up.

 

[kathryn]

You could have a firmer roller, OR you could have very tight muscles and/or lots of trigger points.

Most foam rollers are the same density, but there are some exceptions. ( www.performbetter.com sells different densities).

If the one you have seems too firm, roll against the wall with it. Or slow down your pace. As Materialsgirl suggests, prop yourself up so not all your weight is on the roller at first. As you loosen up, it shouldn't feel so bad.

 

[dbelden1]

Thanks Ladies! I will give it another try before taking it back Will try the back rolls against the wall as to not put my full body weight on those back muscles at once... and see of I can push through a little discomfort and see what happens... I really want to love this roller thing as I have read so many positive results from using one!

 

[Shellynfree]

There are different density rollers as far as I know. Here we have the red coloured ones which are real hard, the blue and white coloured types that are softer. Some have another roll inserted in the centre and these are kinda soft.

Unless your threshold for pain is really low, in the long run you would prefer the high density roller as it can relieve more pressure from the body. It takes getting used to it. In fact we tend to skip using the blue roller because we don't get the kick out of using it. If you really cannot bear the pain, try using softer tennis balls and work your way up.

 

[LauraR]

Just chiming in to agree with what others have posted. I've seen tons of foam rollers at health clubs, and most of them are all the same density.

Just wanted to testify that it DOES get better with time. Make adjustments to keep from resting your whole body weight on the roller, and ease into it. You'll be SO thankful you stuck it out!

 

[dbelden1]

Thanks all! I have removed it from the return pile and tried it again last night before my workout... I do notice that the side of my thighs are extremely tender/tight but will keep trying and see if it makes a difference over the next few weeks

thanks again!

 

[kathryn]

I do notice that the side of my thighs are extremely tender/tight but will keep trying and see if it makes a difference over the next few weeks

OUCH!
I think the IT band roll (side of the legs) is the most painful. But it's very beneficial. That's one where I have to put more weight into the supporting arm (lying on my side, with the upper leg bent and foot on the floor, and the arm holding some weight as well.)

 

[orphylea]

OUCH!
I think the IT band roll (side of the legs) is the most painful. But it's very beneficial. That's one where I have to put more weight into the supporting arm (lying on my side, with the upper leg bent and foot on the floor, and the arm holding some weight as well.)

Oh, me too! It HURTS but it always feels so much better when I'm done. I definitely can't put all of my body weight into that one.

 

[NinjaMom]

Dani~

ITA with Kathryn. The IT Band is the most painful to roll out It brings tears to my eyes! Next are the quads...another ouch. My roller is rather firm as well so I have to play with how much to support myself. Just keep at it and it will get better.

JJ

 

[Jess_jugs]

Dani~

ITA with Kathryn. The IT Band is the most painful to roll out It brings tears to my eyes! Next are the quads...another ouch. My roller is rather firm as well so I have to play with how much to support myself. Just keep at it and it will get better.

JJ

Oh, me too!! When I had an IT band injury (after I ran a marathon), it was so bad that I was banging on the floor like a spoiled kid. It did bring tears to my eyes and it was horribly painful. But once I got it rolled out for a while it was much better. Now I love it!!