One of the most versatile and effective products is the foam roller. Thanks to its different materials and textures, it meets the recovery and massage needs of individuals and professional athletes.
Its proven greatest benefit is to relieve tension and loosen myofascial tissues in the lower back and denser muscles such as the hamstrings and quadriceps, so this is where the most and highest quality benefits can be expected.
What is the best foam rollers for muscle massage?
- Measurements: 3x14cm - 13x5,5in
- Material: Polypropylene
- Colors: 7 Models
- Weight: 582gr - 1,28lbs
- Density: Medium
- Perfect balance of softness and firmness
- Three different surface textures
- Users report it is too small
You can enjoy massage therapy on all the deep muscles that cause pain in your back and legs, as it has a revolutionary system of support points. Its foam surface includes tubular bands and hard tips to better adapt to the patient's body. In some advanced muscle disorders, the density of the foam may be low.
- Offers a smooth rolling experience
- Capable of working large muscle groups
- Designed to stimulate blood flow
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- No grooves or 3D texture
- Can glide over slippery floor surfaces
The roller includes a practical guide with instructions that will help you choose stretching exercises. Its design is suitable to stimulate the trigger points of the body and release the stress caused by pain. You can use it on the back, hips, legs and calves, although this does not mean that you cannot include the roller in your pre-competitive warm-up routine. Keep in mind that the contact area may be too small for deep tissue.
- Size: 32,3x13,3cm - 12,75x5,25in
- Material: EVA foam
- Colors: 5 Models
- Weight: 453gr - 1lbs
- Density: Medium
- Provides a deep massage with less effort
- Three different surface textures
- Capable of working large muscle groups
- Texture designed to stimulate blood flow
- Too intense for some people
- Some people prefer a softer roller
When you use this health ally on a daily basis, you will begin to notice a great change in the tone of your muscles and joint flexibility, which will help you achieve better sports results. This massager is considered as a good tool to prevent injuries, you will only have to use it frequently on the affected parts. In some overloaded muscles the benefit of its use may take longer than it should.
- Size: 33x12,7cm - 12,9x5in
- Material: Polypropylene (EPP), EVA Rubber, Polyurethane
- Colors: 6 Models
- Weight: 775gr - 1,70lbs
- Density: Medium
- Perfect for runners, yoga, pilates, etc
- Three different textures and hardnesses
- Different models to choose from
- Provides a deep massage with less effort
- Too intense for some people
- Several users report noises with prolonged use
The weight and size, collaborate to move this massager, so you can not make excuses to miss the activities you enjoy most. It is suitable for use by anyone who performs pilates, yoga or who needs to be standing for a long time. Among the most outstanding features is its length and diameter, although these aspects may be uncomfortable in certain injuries.
- Measurements: 31,7x14cm - 12,5x5,5in
- Material: EVA foam
- Colors: 15 Models
- Weight: 326gr - 0,72lbs
- Density: Medium
- Different designs to choose from
- Texture designed to stimulate blood flow
- Too intense for some people
An innovative design that delivers just the right density of foam to stimulate myofascial release points. By increasing blood flow, the foam roller is an ideal tool to improve sports injuries and achieve faster recovery. It can be used for plantar fasciitis, cervical pain and low back pain, among other ailments. The durability of the materials is good, although in some cases it may fail.
- Size: 45,7x15,2cm - 18x6in
- Material: Foam
- Colors: Orange, Black
- Weight: 181gr - 0,40lbs
- Density: Soft
- Optimal size for proper massage
- Texture designed to stimulate blood flow
- No material specified
Its contoured shape fits precisely to the muscles, avoiding contact with the tendons and bones of the body . This increases efficiency and ensures more efficient elimination of toxins. Its three hard foam channels contribute to the oxygenation of the fibers, but be aware that in some back injuries this revolutionary design is not efficient.
- Measurements: 91,4x15,2cm - 36x6in
- Material: Polypropylene
- Colors: Black
- Weight: 453gr - 1lbs
- Density: High
- Designed to stimulate blood flow
- Provides a smooth rolling experience
- Easy to use
- Able to work large muscle groups
- Too soft for some people
- No grooves or 3D texture
You can also use this professional massager to warm up before workouts or to stretch after a demanding activity. When you start using it on a daily basis, you will prevent delayed muscle soreness, which will help you to train without any limits. Keep in mind that it has no protruding areas, so this roller may not be very useful for deep tissues.
- Size: 28,7x18,7cm - 11,3x7,4in
- Material: EVA foam
- Colors: Black
- Weight: 1542gr - 3,40lbs
- Density: Extra high
- Plantar fasciitis relief
- Ideal for trigger point therapy
- Some people prefer a softer roller
You will not need to leave home to have your own masseuse, although you should consider that the diameter of this roller is larger than the rest of the massagers, which can affect the sessions in beginner users. The contact points are ideal for difficult areas, which will help you recover faster from an injury. If you want to continue with your fitness and yoga classes in a healthy way, don't miss this opportunity.
- Physical therapy, stretching, pilates and yoga
- Provides a smooth rolling experience
- Does not specify weight
You can choose the floor, the wall or a bed to start your massage session, due to the fact that the contact points stimulate blood circulation and will fill you with energy for your daily activities. Its soft density gives you more comfort during use, but keep in mind that this hardness may be insufficient to treat cervical and calf pains.
- Dimensions: 40,6x17,8x6,6cm - 16x7x2,5in
- Material: Foam
- Colors: Purple, Pink
- Weight: 680gr - 1.50lbs
- Density: High
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Perfect balance of softness and firmness
- No material specified
It can be used by high performance athletes and by anyone who wants to reduce stress levels. It has a strap with which you can turn the roller into a flat mat, which will serve both to use it on your feet and to save space in your backpack when you move it. The multi-level bearings are made of good quality materials, although in some cases their durability and performance is poor.
- Measurements: 91x15x10cm - 36x6x4in
- Material: EVA foam
- Colors: Blue
- Weight: Not specified
- Density: High
- Provides a deep massage with less effort
- Easy to use
- Able to work large muscle groups
- Texture designed to stimulate blood flow
- Does not specify weight
- No grooves or 3D texture
It is ideal for use in the back because its size does not generate excessive pressure on the spine, you can also use it in plantar fasciitis. In addition, by not moving during the self-massage sessions, it is possible to precisely control the area of the body where you want to stimulate blood circulation. Please note that the first results may take some time if you are not an expert user.
- Measurements: 66x12,7cm - 26x5in
- Material: Polypropylene
- Colors: Black
- Weight: 2Kg - 4,50lbs
- Density: Extra high
- 2 Textures with different densities
- Different sizes
- Provides a deep massage with less effort
- Texture designed to stimulate blood flow
- Too intense for some people
- Harder and heavier than most
After a few minutes you will begin to feel significant relief, brought about by improved blood circulation. The size helps anyone get the full benefits of myofascial release and massage therapy. The wavy edges will conform to your body and simulate the hands of a physical therapist. Please note that this product has two densities, which can be a bit uncomfortable if you don't know which one to choose for your situation.
- Size: 33x10cm - 13x4in
- Material: Foam
- Colors: Blue, Black, Green
- Weight: 775gr - 1,70lbs
- Density: Extra high
- Suitable for microwave heat therapy
- Easy to clean
- Texture designed to stimulate blood flow
- Perfect balance of softness and firmness
- No materials specified
- Several users report durability issues
It can be used by anyone without deforming its design. By simply lying on the floor it is possible to achieve the ideal pressure to reach the strategic points that generate pain. But this is not the best, you can combine massage therapy with thermotherapy, since it is possible to place the roller inside the microwave to generate therapeutic heat. Keep in mind that, in some cases, the duration of the heat is short.
- Measurements: 30cm - 12in, 45cm - 18in, 91cm - 36in
- Material: Foam
- Colors: Black
- Weight: Not specified
- Density: Medium
- Three different surface textures
- Capable of working large muscle groups
- Does not specify weight
Do not hesitate any longer and choose a reliable product for your health, which will give you the same results of an expert physiotherapist. It includes a library with online instructions to access different types of exercises, which are shown in high quality videos. The multi-density pattern improves flexibility and relieves pain, although it may cause discomfort during the first few days of the session.
- Size: 31,7x13,3cm - 12,5x5,25in
- Material: Polypropylene
- Colors: 10 Models
- Weight: Not specified
- Density: High
- Plantar fasciitis relief
- Provides a deep massage with less effort
- Very sturdy construction
- Perfect balance of softness and firmness
- Does not specify weight
- Too intense for some people
For this reason, in order not to spend too much money and to recover quickly from any injury or prevent the appearance of any disorder, specialists recommend the daily use of foam roller. If what you need is to stimulate the blood to generate the exchange of nutrients and achieve maximum flexibility in the muscle structure, do not hesitate to choose the massage roller. But keep in mind that its contact pattern and density may be poor for certain back injuries.
Video: How to use Foam Roller?
The types of foam rollers for muscle massage you should know about
What are the benefits of using a foam roller?
With this product you can enjoy a professional massage at home, as if a physiotherapist were using his best techniques, and at a more affordable price and with similar results. Do you know its advantages?
- Myofascial release: This is the main strength of the massage roller. Its function is to release knots and tensions in the myofascial system, which like a second skin envelops all the organs of the body, including the muscles. Since its function is to nourish muscle fibers and promote flexibility, it is important that fascia be in optimal condition.
- Control of stiffness: one of the great advantages of this product is that it controls stiffness locally and works with pressure and glide to reduce the stress of the day and avoid muscle knots that can become complicated and even limit the mobility of people.
- Easy use: The use of myofascial rollers is intuitive, you just have to define the area where you want to work and start with gentle movements as long as the discomfort is relieved and the skin tolerates this type of sensory stimulation. If you are sensitive to massage, you can regulate the pressure with your body weight and opt for gentler products.
- Improves circulation: constant massages increase body temperature and improve blood flow, allowing more nutrients and oxygen to reach muscle fibers, which aids in recovery from injury.
- Corrects postures: Sitting and standing a lot during the day causes you to unconsciously adopt incorrect postures. The myofascial rollers make you a person who is more aware of your body and how it should function correctly. The Foam Roller corrects muscular imbalances caused by tension.
- Improves range of motion: maintaining suppleness and elasticity is another great benefit of the massage roller. When you massage yourself, you ensure that knots disappear and joints function better, even though you should not apply direct pressure on bones or joints.
- Reduce mental stress: Because the body and mind are more connected than you think, when you feel stressed, your body responds with muscle tension that often causes pain. When you offer massage, you get the muscular and myofascial structure to function properly and release tension, which creates a sense of well-being for the mind.
- Prepare muscles: Any athletic activity should involve warming up and cooling down the body to reduce the risk of muscle injury. Performing gentle movements for a minute will activate the body without overworking it. After the workout, you can apply pressure with the roller to relieve the muscle groups that have remained tense and sensitive.
What types of foam rollers are there and which is best for me?
There are a variety of products on the market with different sizes, textures and technologies that are helpful for proper myofascial release. Choosing the right foam roller depends on what you want to use it for:
Density
- Normal: These models are the most recognized standard in the world. They are used both as an introduction to massage with the foam roller and to stimulate the deeper tissues, but with this product, people must apply a higher body pressure.
- Soft: This roller model has greater cushioning despite the strong pressure that people can apply in routines. Its use is limited to people who are just experimenting with this product, and to people who are just looking for general relaxation through superficial massages. They are also most likely to be recommended for very sensitive people.
- Hard: These products are most likely to be recommended for professional athletes, physical therapists, and individuals who have more experience using myofascial massage. They provide deeper and more intense stimulation that attempts to activate trigger points. They are also resistant and most have grooves or elevations that simulate fingertips.
Size
- Briefly, these rollers are typically 12 and 18 inches (30-40 cm) long and slightly smaller than standard models to make them portable and easy to apply to areas such as the calves, connective tissue bands of the pelvis and buttocks. These models are generally flexible and intended for more domestic use by less experienced individuals.
- Long: Also referred to as "full size", this is the type of roller that most people use, as they are most recommended for back pain relief. On average, they are 90 cm long and have a diameter of 15 cm. The hardness level of these models is normal and hard, oriented towards people with more experience in performing myofascial massages.
- Large diameter: these are larger rollers, intended for people who often suffer from back and leg pain, where the densest muscles of the human body are concentrated. They are used when you want to focus all your efforts on these areas and achieve relief from the symptoms of back and sciatic pain.
- Small diameter: if you prefer to be more careful and conventional when using rollers, this model is ideal for you. They have an average diameter of 10 cm and are therefore closer to the ground, providing greater stability to people who are just starting to learn the benefits of using a massage roller.
Material
- Injected polyurethane: this type of material is softer and therefore tends to lose its shape when the roller is made of two pieces. You should make sure that you get a one-piece roller that is stable and does not give under the constant pressure of the body during myofascial routines.
- Polypropylene (EPP): the best rollers are made of this material. Although it is more expensive, it is worth it because it is intended for people who will use it intensively. Manufacturers guarantee a long life of casters made of this material, which has been used only recently, as it is stiff and lightweight.
- EVA rubber: casters made of vinyl acetate are the most common, and it is common for standard products to be equipped with this material, which has an ideal strength to bear the intermediate load of people who do not need intensive routines. When you touch it, its softness makes you feel like you are touching foam, although there are firmer models.
Shape
- Smooth: Although when the massage rollers became known, most of them were smooth, today these models are used for beginners, inexperienced and very sensitive people. The new models are softer than the norm and are used to prepare the muscles for a deeper routine.
- With textures: there are rollers with tips, circles, cylinders and all sorts of perfectly designed shapes that simulate the fingertips and palms, as if the person was receiving a professional massage from a physiotherapist. These rollers are made of a harder and more durable material to withstand the high impact loads during routines.
- Cylindrical shape: Its function is the same as a standard foam roller, but it has a cavity in the center that makes the product lighter and more portable. It is ideal for people who make a living from sports and need this tool to prepare the muscles before training.
- With flat base: its function is designed to facilitate the work on the central balance, since it is flat on one side and rounded on the other, so that there is no displacement when people rest their back on this product. It is a model that is widely used by people who practice yoga and pilates. They are lightweight rollers and they can provide myofascial loosening in areas such as the calves, quadriceps and gluteus.
By technology
- Electric: The rollers are electric, as they offer vibrations of different intensities to better reach the deeper tissues. Their great advantage is that you can prepare the body by stroking and pressure and then offer stimulation through vibration. It is also common for this product to be used for superficial and relaxing massages, without the need to reach trigger points that are difficult to access.
- Manual: this category includes most rollers, products that require body weight to apply pressure and glide to achieve myofascial release.