Foam rollers have been recently growing in popularity for their versatility and benefits. A study by Harvard’s Med School even discussed the added benefits of including foam rolling in your fitness routine.

From stretching your muscles and relieving soreness to alleviating myofascial tension, the benefits keep piling on for foam rolling.

The best thing about foam rolling is that it isn’t just made for athletes or pros; it’s made with everyone and every body part in mind.

Sounds interesting? We’ll let you in on a few tips on how to choose a foam roller that fits your needs!

How to Choose a Foam Roller

When shopping for a foam roller, there are a few factors you should keep an eye out for to ensure the best bang for your buck.

Your Experience Level

Choosing a foam roller will differ according to your level of experience. If you’re a newbie to foam rolling, you should pick out a foam roller that is soft and has a smooth texture. This will help gradually ease your muscles into the routine.

If you’ve got some experience with foam rolling and are looking for an upgrade, a medium or high-density roller will do the trick. Smooth rollers will provide more pressure, but if you want an added massage, opt for a textured roller.

We recommend the Amazon Basics Foam Roller for a firmer choice. You can read our full review of this foam roller here.

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Foam Type

What type of foam the roller is made out of isn’t just a matter of quality; it’s also a matter of durability and usability. When choosing your foam roller, be on the lookout for these types.

Open-Cell Foam

Usually priced at a suspiciously low price, this type of foam will do the job for a simple massage or exercise but will break down faster than other types. If you find a roller with this type of foam, we’d click off that tab if we were you.

Closed-Cell Foam

As you can guess from the name, closed-cell foam is more tightly bound. This makes it stronger, more durable, and easier to maintain.

There are two main types of closed-cell foam: EPP and EVA foam. Let’s touch on each type very briefly.

EPP Foam

EPP foam is a nice middle-ground for most foam rollers as it’s both affordable and durable. For beginners, or for the average day-to-day use, this foam type will accommodate your fitness routine with ease.

EVA Foam

The most durable of the bunch, EVA foam’s closed-cell build enables it to withstand repetitive and heavy use without losing its form. It’s also easy to clean with a simple wipe down.

Foam Density

Foam rollers come in three density or hardness levels: low, medium, and high density. Most brands even color-code their rollers according to firmness levels, where lighter colors signify softness, and darker colors signify firmness

Soft foam rollers are perfect if you’re new to foam rolling or have low pain tolerance. When starting out, your muscles will need to gradually get used to foam rolling. If you don’t ease them in, you might injure yourself. ProsourceFit Flex Foam Rollers are easy on your muscles and wallet.

If you’re used to foam rolling or looking to up the intensity, a medium-density roller is your best bet. Medium rollers are often used for core stabilizing exercises and Pilates. Yes4All has a bunch of sizes and fun colors to choose from.

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Lastly, high-density or hard rollers are used to hit every knot and trigger point in your body by applying more pressure. We recommend using hard rollers only if you’re experienced in using foam rollers, as they can cause muscle strains or injuries for newbies.

Surface Texture

While browsing for a new roller, you’ll come across a variety of textures and shapes. The most common is the smooth texture, with which rollers resemble pool noodles. This texture is perfect for most people.

Another form is the gridded or textured roller, these are rollers that have knobs, bumps, or even honeycomb shapes that work your deep tissues and massage your body.

Some models have one recurring pattern all over the roller, while others provide alternating patterns that provide different amounts of pressure, just like a masseuse’s hands would.

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Size

Another factor to consider when buying your new roller is its size. Foam rollers can range from 3 to 36 inches; each with its recommended use.

• Small foam rollers (3-4 inches) are ideal for muscle group targeting, like targeting calves or shoulder muscles.
• Medium rollers of around 12 inches are easy to carry around and pack if you’re always on the move. They’re good for working a wider range of muscles than a small roller.
• Long rollers around 24-36 inches are ideal for working on arms, legs, and back because they cover a bigger surface area. Long rollers, particularly 36-inch models, also have the added benefit of being used perpendicular to your spine to stretch your entire back.

We recommend 36-inch foam rollers for beginners to avoid muscle strains, and small or medium rollers if you’re targeting a specific muscle group, or just want a travel-friendly roller.

Feel like you can’t handle a roller right away? You can go for a half-roll option to build up your tolerance first. They’re basically foam rollers cut in half, making them a more stable option for you to just lay on them, and stretch your muscles.

Extra Features

Some foam rollers boast additional features like different vibration or pulse modes. Some even feature heating and cooling options. Are they worth it, though?

Vibrations or pulses, like the ones FITINDEX Vibrating Foam Roller provides, give your rolling experience an extra boost for muscle recovery and warmups.

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Heated foam rollers can help relieve muscle tension and fascia by warming up the muscles as you roll, which will make the rolling a much more pleasant experience. Moji’s Foam Roller is a great option if you’re looking for a compact and heated roller.

While these extra features seem captivating, they aren’t necessary for a foam roller to do its job. Since they come with a higher price tag compared to regular foam rollers, we wouldn’t recommend getting them as your starting roller.

What Does Foam Rolling Do?

Now that we know what to look for in a foam roller, let’s take a closer look at what exactly foam rolling does.

Our body muscles are connected through a bonding tissue called fascia. Foam rolling is used as a form of myofascial release, which works on relieving the tightness and sensitivity that occur due to overworked muscles or injuries.

Rollers can also be used for stretching out plantar fasciitis and improving posture by working the spine and shoulders.

But that’s not the only reason for rolling. Foam rollers can be used as warm-up exercise tools, and even as means of cooling down after a workout session.

Some yoga enthusiasts incorporate foam rollers into their routines to ease their way into different poses or dial up the difficulty on some.

Physical therapists and doctors can also prescribe foam rollers to their patients as a form of rehabilitation or injury prevention. Some people simply use them as massagers after a long day.

With all the shapes and sizes out there, there’s always a foam roller for everyone.

Which Type of Foam Roller to Get

Flustered by all the choices out there? We’ve compiled a list of foam rollers for a variety of uses to make your shopping process easier.

Best Foam Roller for Beginners

When starting out, a good option to consider is OPTP Soft Pro-Roller. OPTP is a reputable brand that creates long-lasting EVA foam rollers. If these are out of your budget, ProSourceFit has an EPE foam option that is more affordable.

Best Yoga Foam Roller

Next, let’s look at how to choose a foam roller for improving your yoga practice. Balance, core strengthening, and increasing your yoga poses’ difficulty are just a few benefits a foam roller can add to your yoga routine.

If you’re working on your balance, a half roll is a versatile option, and ProSourceFit has two half roll lengths to choose from.

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However, a regular foam roller will help you with more exercises such as planks, upward facing dog, and reclining goddess poses. Yes4All has a variety of medium-density rollers that will give your poses a new, challenging twist.

Best Foam Roller for Myofascial Release

If you suffer from fascia pain and need a foam roller to alleviate the pain, 321’s medium-density roller has a uniquely designed grid texture that targets deep tissue, and myofascial trigger points. They also have a wide array of colors that will add a pop of fun to your workout gear.

Need a firmer roller? The Original Body Roller has three massage zones that penetrate deep tissues and get rid of any knots, and relieve myofascial pain.

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Best Foam Roller for Runners and Swimmers

Making laps and freestyling can take a toll on your muscles without a proper warmup and muscle recovery.

If you’re a swimmer or runner, a textured foam roller can help prepare your muscles beforehand, or relieve any tensions after you’ve completed your sets. TriggerPoint’s 13-inch Grid foam roller is a compact option to bring along to practice.

Want to give those stubborn knots a more thorough workout? A vibrating foam roller like Vibra combines the benefits of a regular textured roller with the added five-speed settings for the vibrations. The best thing about it? It lasts for 4 hours at the highest speed and is recharged with a regular USB cable in no time.

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Final Words on How to Choose a Foam Roller

Whether you’re a novice to foam rolling or a long-term enthusiast, there’s surely a foam roller out there that’s perfect for you.

Always start with softer rollers and build up the intensity as your muscles get used to rolling. This will help you avoid injury.

However, if you’re a pro looking to splurge on a new gym toy, we recommend taking a look at vibratory or heating/cooling foam rollers.

Remember that if you’re considering a foam roller for rehabilitation or physical therapy, consult with your physical therapist or trainer first. They can recommend certain firmness or types that best suit you.

Now that you know how to choose a foam roller, what are you waiting for? Get rolling!

More Foam Rolling Buyers Guides

Check out these very helpful buyers guides directed at helping you to decide which foam roller is best for you and your unique needs.

• Best Brand of Foam Roller

• Best Foam Roller for Back Pain

• What Size Foam Roller Should I Get?

• Can Foam Rolling Help Me Lose Weight?

The post How to Choose a Foam Roller: All You Need to Know appeared first on Body Mind Wellness Tools.

Being glued to your office chair for most of your day isn’t only boring, but it makes it more likely to experience back pain. I personally felt this pain when I had a 8 hour at a desk job.

If you’re more of the athletic type, intensive exercise can overwork and strain your muscles. In both cases, one of your best bets for back pain relief is a foam roller.

Foam rollers come in various shapes and sizes, but even in their most basic foam-tube shape, they’re pretty handy. Their uses can vary between pre-workout and post-workout stretching, to physical therapy.

That said, we compiled a list of the best foam rollers for back pain on the market today so that it’s easier for you to pinpoint the perfect one for your needs.

Our Top 7 Picks for the Best Foam Roller for Back Pain

Whether you’re looking for your very first foam roller or an upgrade from your current one, we’re confident that one of the following products will suit your needs and budget.

1. Low Density: OPTP PRO-Roller Soft Foam Roller

If you’re just starting out or have sensitive trigger points to treat, this soft foam roller is a good start. Built out of close-celled EVA foam, this roller can be easily wiped down after a workout. EVA foam is also known for its great durability.

This soft foam roller is 18 inches, which is ideal for muscle group targeting and self-massaging. It’s also compact and travel-friendly.

The soft, low-density foam will give your muscles the stretching they need, without pinching or bruising. If you’re opting for a full-body stretch, there’s a 36-inch model.

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2. Medium Density: Yes4All Medium-Density Foam Roller

If you’re looking to up your foam rolling game a little bit, this medium-density foam roller will do the trick.

Made out of PE foam, the Yes4All foam roller delivers moderate firmness and is able to support up to 250 lbs with ease. It’s one of the most durable options on the market.

The smooth anti-slip foam roller also comes in three colors and four sizes to suit your fitness needs, from 12-inch rollers to target specific areas to 36-inch rollers that hit every spot.

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3. High Density: LuxFit Speckled Foam Roller

Don’t let the cute, speckled design fool you; this foam roller is made out of high-density extra firm foam to withstand the toughest of fitness routines.

The molded polypropylene foam build makes it liquid-repellent and helps it retain its shape for long. The smooth surface provides equal pressure on your muscles, while the firmness works your muscles and deep tissues.

Whatever workout you have planned, Luxfit offers four different sizes: 12, 18, 24, and 36-inch foam rollers, as well as three speckled colors to choose from.

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4. Multi Density: TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller

Looking for a massage but can’t bother heading to a spa? The TriggerPoint GRID foam roller mimics a masseuse’s hands with its different grid patterns and alternating firmness.

The spiked nubs provide firm pressure similar to that of fingertips, while the tube-shaped and flat areas imitate the fingers and palm.

The gridded foam roller hollowed build adds to its durability and is a nifty place to store your workout clothes when packing.

Although this model is only 13-inches, TriggerPoint also has a 26-inch foam roller.

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5. Beginner Friendly: ProsourceFit Flex Foam Rollers

ProsourceFit’s Flex foam rollers provide soft, low-density, and budget-friendly options for those who are new to using foam rollers. Both half and full models provide medium pressure on your muscles and deep tissues for an easy kick-start to foam rolling.

The smooth EPE foam is gentle on trigger points and gives your blood circulation a boost. The versatile shapes also give a wide range for pilates, physical therapy, and spinal alignment.

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6. Best Weight Capacity: AcuMobility Ultimate Back Roller

Designed by a chiropractor, this foam back roller is designed with spinal pressure in mind. It’s a great way to alleviate back pain, as well as work out any kinks in your muscles.

This back foam roller is composed of four rows of bumpy, medium-density foam and a spinal gap to give your spine a painless stretch.

The durable EVA foam can withstand up to 1,000 lbs and is easy to wipe down after breaking a sweat. Unlike most foam rollers, AcuMobility’s roller has added height which makes working your entire back a breeze.

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7. Best Vibration: Epitomie Fitness VIBRA Foam Roller

If your muscles are stubborn and need a push to loosen up, upgrading to a vibrating foam roller can help ease that stiff back.

Foam rollers already do an exceptional job at relieving pain and stretching out muscles. The added pulses can make pre-workout and post-workout stretches more efficient.

The VIBRA high-density foam roller comes in four vibration intensities and one rhythm option that alternates between them.

The different pulses along with the honeycomb grid texture guarantee that your sore muscles and tight knots get some much-needed relief.

Although the battery lasts about four hours on the highest intensity, it only takes about an hour to charge back up.

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What to Look for in a Foam Roller?

By now, you have seen different densities and shapes of foam rollers, and you’re probably wondering how to pick the right one for you.

Before making a purchase, there are a few factors you should consider:

Foam Type and Density

Good quality foam rollers are mainly built from EVA or EPE foam, both are condensed and tightly molded, which gives them a smooth, durable finish.

PE foam is slightly less durable, but is budget-friendly and will give you your money’s worth.

How dense the foam roller should be is up to your experience and tolerance levels. Low-density or soft foam is perfect for beginners and those with sensitive trigger points. Medium-density is a slight upgrade for beginners and is an intermediate user’s best tool.

Lastly, high-density foam rollers are the most intense of all. Their noteworthy rigidness stretches your muscles and hits those deeply embedded knots.

Soft to medium foams are better suited for back pain relief. However, if you’ll be using your foam roller for physical therapy, consult your physical therapist about which firmness level is best for your case.

Smooth vs Textured

While both work on increasing your range of motion, stretching your muscles, and providing great pre and post-workout routines, textured or gridded foam rollers could be too intense for a beginner.

If you’re just starting out, we recommend opting for a smooth roller till your muscles get the hang of rolling. If you’re looking for an upgrade to your standard roller, a textured roller will give you a more precise, muscle group targeting massage.

Size

Small foam rollers are easy to carry around, can be versatile, and used with different exercises and muscle groups. However, they can be difficult to use if you’re new to foam rolling.

Larger foam rollers, specifically those that are about 36-inches, cover a wider range of muscles and provide equal pressure throughout. They’re particularly efficient when used for back pain.

The same applies to half foam rollers, they’re handy but their size determines just how versatile they can be.

Benefits of Foam Rollers for Back Pain

While foam rollers are noted to be a great addition to any workout routine, they provide targeted benefits for back pain.

Most experts advise against using foam rollers for the lower back. While it may seem harmless, your lower back has no structure to protect your spine from the applied pressure, which can cause contractions and damage to the muscle.

Rolling your upper back will release muscle tension, increase range of motion, and can help alleviate back pain. Always refer back to your doctor or physical therapist before using a foam roller for any back injuries.

How to Use a Foam Roller on Your Back

Foam rollers should be used on your back by rolling on them back and forth slowly, and from your neck till the end of your ribcage. Avoid rolling all the way down to your lower back.

While rolling, if you find a tense spot, wait for a few seconds till it releases, and continue rolling. If the tender spot hurts, don’t linger on it while rolling to avoid injury.

Unless prescribed otherwise, we recommend using a foam roller before working, and after working out. This is a way to help your muscles recover, and boost circulation.

Best Foam Roller for Back Pain: The Final Verdict

Foam rollers with all their shapes and forms are a great addition to any fitness routine, be it physical therapy, pilates, yoga, or just a regular stretcher, their versatility is undeniable.

We recommend going for a smooth, low-density foam roller if you’re just starting out, like the  OPTP PRO-Roller Soft Foam Roller.

If you’re into yoga or if you spend a lot of time in the gym and looking for their best all-around tool, the TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller got you covered.

Whatever your foam rolling needs are, we hope our buying guide helps you find the best foam roller for back pain to get you rolling!

Other Foam Rolling Buying Guide Articles

• Is Foam Rolling Good for Weight Loss?

• What Is the Best Brand of Foam Roller?

• How to Choose a Foam Roller

• What Size Foam Roller Should I Get?

• Best Vibrating Foam Rollers

• Best Portable Foam Rollers

The post Best Foam Roller for Back Pain appeared first on Body Mind Wellness Tools.

Foam rolling, also known as self-myofascial release (SMR), is becoming more and more popular every day, especially among fitness and yoga enthusiasts.

Using a foam roller can help relieve muscle soreness and reduce inflammation. It’s also a crucial tool used by many physical therapy patients to help them with their conditions. Additionally, foam rolling can aid in weight loss efforts.

If you plan on buying a foam roller, you’re probably asking yourself, what size foam roller should I get? This detailed guide attempts to answer that question, so stick around.

How to Choose the Right Foam Roller?

Foam rollers vary in terms of density, size, texture, and shape. Moreover, some foam rollers come with more features than others. Let’s discuss each of these factors in detail to simplify your foam roller selection process.

Density

The density of the foam roller can also be referred to as the firmness. The firmer the foam roller, the more intense the massage will be.

There three density options that you can choose from, namely soft, standard, and firm.

Soft

Soft foam rollers are suitable for beginners. It’s when you need a more comfortable message rather than an intense one that targets deeper tissues.

Being soft means it’s less rigid than the standard and the firm ones. So, it’ll wear out and lose its shape quicker. When your technique and tolerance improve, you can switch to a firmer one.

We recommend the STOTT PILATES as a soft foam roller option. It’s built from high-quality EVA foam. This specific foam roller is durable and withstands rigorous, repeated use.

Note, however, that the STOTT PILATES is on the expensive side. Nonetheless, it’s hard to find a soft foam roller that won’t lose its shape easily, so the pricing is definitely justified. 

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Standard

Standard-density foam rollers are suitable for those who foam roll on a regular basis. They give deep messages while not being too uncomfortable; perfect for those with medium tolerance.

Since they’re firmer than soft-density rollers, standard-density rollers don’t lose their shape very easily and they last for quite some time.

This type is also used in core strengthening exercises. People use it in classes like Pilates or Yoga. If you are looking for a standard density roller, try this one.

Firm

Firm foam rollers are best for athletes and highly active people. They provide very concentrated pressure, which can be uncomfortable for some people, but the extra pressure helps with quick muscle recovery. Firm foam rollers are popular among athletes.

This type comes in different materials. Its material can be a higher density foam or it could be a PVC pipe with light cushioning. As you may have guessed, firm rollers are the longest-lasting of the three types.

If you feel intense pain that is unbearable when using the firm type foam roller, stop immediately and opt for a lighter one. You should only feel discomfort from rolling the muscles, not pain.

We recommend the Amazon Basics Foam Roller for the firm choice. You can read our full review of this foam roller here.

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Size

Addressing the main question at hand, you need to consider the length and diameter of a foam roller in order to ensure buying the right size.

Standard Full Size

The 36-inch is the standard full-size foam roller. It usually has a 6-inch diameter. This is the most commonly used one, and it’s the best for beginners.

If you need to target a large group of muscles, the 36-inch foam roller is for you. It works the best when it comes to rolling your back, as it can cover your entire back area. Shorter rollers might not be as effective. To add, the standard size is more stable when used for rolling your hamstrings or quads.

• We love the OPTP PRO-Roller Standard Density Foam Roller as a 36-inch foam roller. We highly recommend it for beginners who foam roll regularly. Moreover, it’s medium-density works great for most people.

• For our athletes, we recommend the LuxFit Foam Roller. This a full-sized roller with a pretty high-density construction. It’s available in different sizes and colors, and it’s affordable.

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• As mentioned above, another good option for our highly active people is the Amazon Basics High-Density. This one is also available in different sizes and in a variety of colors. Plus, it’s budget-friendly.

Shorter Foam Rollers

In this category, lies the 24, 18, and 12-inch foam rollers. These are mostly used for targeting smaller areas like your arms, calves, or inner thighs. They’re more portable than their full-size counterparts. It’s better to use these rollers if you’re practicing in a small room area.

Some people complain that the 12-inch foam roller is too small. Shorter-sized foam rollers can be especially frustrating for beginners. We recommend short-sized foam rollers for advanced users.

Most of the foam rollers recommended above are available in short lengths as well. We still have more recommendations, though.

• The OPTP LO ROX Aligned Travel-Size is a superb option that boasts moderate density. It’s pretty durable as it’s made from EVA foam. The best thing about the OPTP LO ROX is that it measures only 12 x 4 inches, which makes it extremely portable and easy to travel with.

• Pro-Tec Athletics Travel Size Foam Roller is another recommended small-sized foam roller. It’s of a softer density that’s perfect for beginners. Note, however, that it loses its shape over time.

Diameter

Typically, a foam roller’s diameter is either 4 inches or 6 inches. The 6-inch diameter foam roller is the most common and most versatile. It allows more controlled rolling.

The 4-inch diameter foam roller is usually used to target certain areas. In addition, it’s better for physical therapy patients and older users. It provides added stability by bringing them closer to the floor.

LuxFit Foam Roller, Amazon Basics High-Density, and OPTP PRO-Roller Standard Density are all 6-inch diameter foam rollers.

Travel-size foam rollers typically have 4-inch diameters like Pro-Tec Athletics Travel Size Foam Roller, OPTP LO ROX Aligned Travel-Size Foam Roller, and EasY FoxY ToY Foam Roller.

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Texture and Shape

The texture of a foam roller’s surface is similar to its density in the sense that the more textured the surface, the greater the intensity of the massage.

Let’s discuss the different textures and shapes.

Smooth Surface

Smooth-surface foam rollers provide you with even pressure along the targeted area. This, in turn, allows for a lower intensity massage than the textured surface.

Smooth-surfaced foam rollers are perfect for beginners and low-tolerance users.

Textured Surface

This when you need something extra. There are different types of textured foam rollers. The protrusions that come out of it take different shapes, including knobs, ridges, and bumps.

Each surface is designed to give the closest experience to a real massage. They pretty much mimic fingertips or palms.

Foam rollers with higher and more defined protrusions give deeper, intense massages. They’re intended to get right into the muscle and give you the ultimate massage. Textured foam rollers are highly recommended for advanced users and athletes.

One of our favorite textured foam rollers is the 321 STRONG. We love this foam roller because it’s short and does an excellent job of targeting specific areas. Also, it’s of medium density and the protrusions aren’t too strong. It can be used by beginners and intermediates.

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Another great option is the TriggerPoint GRID. It’s a 13 x 5.5-inch foam roller, so it’s perfect for triggering a specific group of muscles. 

For longer options, we recommend the 26 x 5.5-inch TriggerPoint Grid. It’s ideal for massaging your back and providing high-intensity massage for your hamstrings and quads. It’s a bit costly, but it’s worth the investment.

A similar but more affordable option is the 30-inch 321 STRONG. It’s of high density for deep massages, but it’s not as durable as TriggerPoint Grid Foam Roller.

And our favorite option for massaging your calves and shins is the Rollga. It’s one of the best options for runners. It targets the muscles while avoiding the tendons and bones. It’s available in different densities and colors.

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Shape

Some foam rollers don’t have the traditional cylindrical shape. Foam rollers have developed into more complex shapes to target specific areas. 

Foam rollers that take the shape of a ball are generally the smallest. These are best used on curved areas of your body. They work especially well for foot massages.

We recommend Kieba Massage Lacrosse Balls as a soft-density option.

TriggerPoint Foam Massage Ball is a great choice for moderate density. Both of them are affordable.

For higher density and deeper massages, we’ve selected two products: Muscle Max Massage Ball and RumbleRoller BOA Original Beastie Massage Ball. They’re both great; simply choose the shape that you think would work best for you.

Some foam rollers take the shape of a stick. They’re used primarily for legs, but you can also use them for other areas. They give a more precise massage.

Idson Muscle Roller Stick is our favorite massage stick. It’s durable and easy to use. Plus, it’s affordable and easier to travel with than a traditional foam roller.

Tech Features

While shopping for foam rollers, you might find vibrating ones. Others may feature heating or cooling options. These are more for patients with specific conditions like plantar fasciitis.

We recommend Aduro Sport Foot Massage Roller if you seek a heating/cooling option. For a vibrating roller, Vulken Extra Long 17” Vibrating Foam Roller is a good choice. It has 4 speed settings to control the intensity that you want. 

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Final Thoughts on What Size Foam Roller Should I Get

Choosing the perfect foam roller for your needs can be overwhelming, but with the aid of the information shared in this article, it shouldn’t be so hard.

Be sure to pick the right density, size, texture, and shape for your particular level of experience. If you’re new to foam rolling, you want to avoid firmer, shorter, and more textured options.

Per contra, if you’ve been foam rolling for quite some time, try experimenting with high-density options.

Good luck!

The post What Size Foam Roller Should I Get? appeared first on Body Mind Wellness Tools.

Muscle soreness after a workout is no joke. At times, you get through it with some rest. At other times, however, the pain will tenaciously hold on to your body, keeping you from resuming training.

Here, a great way to relax your muscles presents itself: foam rolling. From physiotherapists to coaches, all are now recommending foam rolling for alleviating soreness and preventing injury. Foam rolling can even assist in your weight loss efforts.

So, now that you’ve made the decision to get yourself one of these famed foam rollers, where do you start? What is the best brand of foam rollers?

In this article, we cover what is the best brand of foam roller on the market while shedding light on six best-selling products, so stick around.

What Are the Best Foam Rollers in the Market?

Oddly enough, the best brand of foam rollers in the market is Amazon’s very own private label brand, AmazonBasics. That’s because their foam roller is very affordable and it brilliantly fulfills its function perfectly.

That being said, foam rollers differ in their designs, prices, portability, and firmness. Keeping that in mind, we’ve compiled for you a list of the top foam rollers in the market, so you can make an informed buying decision.

Also, see our Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Foam Roller Article.

1.    AmazonBasics High-Density Foam Roller

The motto of AmazonBasics, “highly rated products at low prices,” is on full display here. That’s as this foam roller is among the cheapest on our list. The product also has high functionality, as it can be used for multiple purposes, from relieving soreness to restoring balance, strength, and flexibility.

The AmazonBasics foam roller is of a high density, so it’s quite firm, which helps give you great deep-tissue massaging.

The firmness is due to the fact that the roller is made with polypropylene. This very material is also what gives the roller a relatively slippery surface, allowing for easy rolling.

Mainly, the molded edges of this roller offer support for all body types. Along with the black color and design, these edges also give a stylish, simple look to the roller.

Beyond that, the materials used in this roller are free from harmful chemicals, making it safe for you and the environment.

Relative to how firm it is, the AmazonBasics foam roller is easy to carry. It won’t give you any trouble cleaning it, either.

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2.    Brazyn Morph Foam Roller

The Brazyn Morph roller has a competitive edge like no other: it’s super-portable. It actually can be folded in order to smoothly blend in with the other contents of your bag! This convenience of transport will give you more room to foam-roll wherever you may be.

All you need to do is pull a tiny rope, and the roller’s collapsed body will expand to 14 inches. Combine that with the 5.5-inch diameter, and you get a foam roller that can stretch across your entire back. Just as easy to open, it will also collapse with the push of a button.

You might think just because it can be folded that it’ll be too fragile to withstand your body weight. Think again, as the roller is made of aluminum, granting it a light yet durable build.

With bamboo also in the mix, the roller is designed to bear up to 350 lbs. I bet you’re thinking: this is an overwhelming wave of features—is there a catch? There is. Brazyn foam roller is really expensive; almost three times the price of the Amazon-Basics foam roller.

Another downside can be firmness. However, there are two degrees of firmness to choose from. First, there’s the Morph ALPHA foam roller, which boasts high density. Also, there’s the BRAVO roller with medium density.

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3.    SPRI Foam Roller

What instantly stands out in this roller is its durability. Originally designed for gyms, the SPRI foam roller can withstand rigorous daily use. This is an important piece of information to know if you’re planning on sharing the roller with someone else. It’s also worth noting that this roller is made from materials that preserve a clean look for long.

SPRI foam roller can also be used for all kinds of training, be it rigorous or gentle. You can use it for lower body balance as much as you can use it for massaging and self-mobilization.

When it comes to density, It’s on the firm side of the spectrum, specializing in tough massaging that reaches deeper tissues. This toughness also makes it a handy tool for improving your core strength and overall stamina.

To fit different purposes, the SPRI foam roller is available in three sizes: 12, 18, and 32 inches. The diameter, however, is fixed at 6 inches. Regarding the price, it lies in the middle between the cheaper Amazon-Basics roller and the pricier Brazyn Morph.

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4.    Prima Lole Foam Roller

The Lole roller is one of the best high-density foam rollers on the market. Its reasonable price tag is one of the reasons behind its immense popularity.

The roller is also strong and durable, thanks to the fact that it doesn’t have only one, but two inner cores, which is enough reinforcement for it to support up to 440 lbs, topping other more expensive foam rollers.

Courtesy of the bumpy surface that envelopes the core layers, the Prima Lole foam roller can notably improve blood circulation. It also eases tense muscles and helps fatigued ones recover. This fast relaxing effect is largely due to the 3D, diamond-shaped design it has.

The design of the Lolë foam roller enables it to reach deep into the tissues, providing quick relief for sore muscles. That’s why this roller is best used after working out; to tackle the soreness early on and prevent undesirable muscle knots. It can also be used in warming up before a workout.

There are particular body areas the design of the Lole roller enables it to tackle perfectly. These include calves, lats, lower back, hips, glutes, upper back, and even the chest.

Despite being high-density, the outer texture makes it a bit more usable by sensitive people. Also, if you’re eco-conscious, this foam roller will be a good match for you, as it’s made of eco-friendly materials.

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5.    Rollga Foam Roller

Don’t let its untraditional look spook you; the Rollga foam roller is truly different from others in the market. A testament to that is the award this foam roller won from the Runner’s World magazine.

With its meandering surface and hard texture, the Rollga foam roller is sure to stimulate your muscles on a deep level. It allows blood and oxygen to stream into your muscles effortlessly, ridding them of their fatigue and soreness. That’s why the Rollga is great for restoring mobility and flexibility.

What’s more, the contours of the roller match those of your body, which helps target the sore muscles without getting near bones and tendons.

The Rollga isn’t as heavy as it may initially look. Actually, it’s lightweight and measures only 18 inches, so it’s fairly suitable for travel.

While it isn’t as heavy as it looks, it’s as strong as you’ve probably assumed: it takes a lot of strength to carry 2,000 lbs! Aside from being able to hold this much weight, the strength of the foam applies the needed pressure on muscle knots. The multiple angles of pressure created by the contours also help with that.

In addition to multiple angles, the Rollga roller also has multiple foam densities to choose from. Besides massaging, this roller can be a handy tool for yoga. It can be used as an excellent yoga prop.

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6.    Nike Recovery Roller

Of course Nike comes up when you ask about the best brand of foam roller. This one does look more like a stick than a foam roller, but believe me, this shape has its perks. First, this extra compact design takes portability to the next level. The design is also accompanied by an attached hose, which makes the transportation of the roller even easier.

Aside from portability, the compact design gives the roller a unique, stylish look, which is the trademark of all Nike’s products. What further accentuates the style of the roller is the fact that it’s multi-colored.

You’ve probably guessed it from the size; Nike’s roller is lightweight—0.1 kilograms, to be exact. As far as the material goes, Nike’s roller is made of plastic that’s gentle on your muscles. So, it’s an advisable solution for those who are uncomfortable with firm rollers.

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Final Words on the Best Brand of Foam Roller

No more sore muscles with these foam roller best brands.

In days past, booking yourself a massage appointment was the only way to effectively relax your tense muscles. Nowadays, you can massage yourself via a foam roller. Foam rolling is pretty much a staple in the fitness industry today.

Just like any useful product, many brands developed their own versions of foam rollers. True, brands like Brazyn Morph and Rollga may stand out with their designs and extra features, but when we get back to the basics and consider the price, the AmazonBasics foam roller is the overall best choice.

Other Foam Rolling Buying Guide Articles

• Is Foam Rolling Good for Weight Loss?

• Best Foam Roller for Back Pain

• How to Choose a Foam Roller

• What Size Foam Roller Should I Get?

• Best Vibrating Foam Rollers

• Best Portable Foam Rollers

The post What Is the Best Brand of Foam Roller? appeared first on Body Mind Wellness Tools.

Lack of exercise makes you feel stiffened up and weak. It also allows fat to creep in and settle underneath your skin. So you finally make the decision and start exercising regularly. Good for you!

The momentum doesn’t last long, though, as soreness from exercise begins to kick in, forcing you to rest for extended periods of time until your sore muscles recover.

You start to wonder: how will I ever lose weight at such a slow rate? This leads you to explore different weight loss tactics; most popular of which is foam rolling.

Can foam rolling really help you lose weight, though? In this article, we go over all you need to know about the benefits of foam rolling for weight loss, so be sure to stick around.

Will Foam Rolling Help Me Lose Weight?

Yes, but in an indirect way. A foam roller won’t shed fat, but it’ll help you recover fast, and thus work out more often. This will translate to burning more calories, and ultimately losing weight.

A foam roller is a cylindrical tube whose surface can be bumpy at places and smooth at others. To move your body weight against such a surface is to literally massage yourself. That’s why foam rolling can also be called self-massaging, or a self-myofascial release exercise.

Known to be effective, a foam roller is used in most fitness programs. To get a grasp of what makes it good for weight loss, we need to dive into some science.

• Related Reading: Best Tools for Weight Loss

How Can Foam Rolling Help Me Lose Weight?

Foam rolling can ultimately contribute to weight loss in one of seven ways.

1.    Reduces Soreness

There are two types of soreness that happen due to a workout. First, there’s acute muscle soreness, which happens during or immediately after exercising. This is the one you push through to get that one last rep.

The second type of soreness is called delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS). As the name implies, this type takes place 12 to 24 hours after a workout, peaking between the second and third day.

While only the second type will delay your return to the gym, foam rolling decreases soreness from both types. Thus, you can resume your efforts at the gym, and also do better while you’re in there. At the end of the day, this will mean losing more weight.

You might ask, isn’t this soreness a sign that I’ve done a good job at the gym and now I’m growing? Well, contrary to popular belief, pain doesn’t have to be in the equation for you to achieve your fitness goals. It could even be an indication that you should rest, and maybe use a technique like foam rolling.

2.    Relaxes Tense Muscles and Fascia

What causes soreness after a workout isn’t just your muscles. Fascia, which is the layer surrounding muscles, is a major cause of post-workout discomfort. This layer is particularly prone to tightening, which leads to pain.

This tightening of fascia is called adhesion; a process in which the stretchy fascia is rendered sticky. This can put you out of the gym for a while until the fascia returns back to normal. Here is when foam rolling comes to the rescue, as it can reduce this unwanted adhesion.

3.    Releases Trigger Points

Simply put, trigger points are hotspots of pain residing within a muscle. When an examiner puts their finger on exactly that point, a person will most likely jump or make a movement indicating intense pain.

Left untreated, these trigger points can cause long-standing pain, which can keep you from exercising and losing weight. Depending on the severity, trigger points may require seeing a physiotherapist; however, I’ll tell you how a foam roller can help you release them.

To treat a trigger point, roll on the foam roller until you feel sharp pain somewhere in the muscle. This means you’ve spotted a trigger point. Upon feeling this sting, rest on the roller in that same position for 20 seconds before continuing to roll.

4.    Relieves Pain

Apart from relaxing muscles and releasing trigger points, foam rolling can relieve pain in another way. Research suggests it can do so by acting directly on the nerves coursing within the tissues. Thus, foam rolling has the ability to promote pain relief, putting you back on track with exercising as soon as possible.

5.    Increases Muscular Efficiency

There’s research proving that foam rolling enhances the communication between your nerves and muscles. In other words, it enhances what’s known as neuromuscular efficiency.

What does this translate to? This means you’ll need less work from your muscles to achieve the same task. Of course, that’ll give you space to practice more, and thus lose more fat.

To add to the efficiency, foam rolling also increases the range of motion of your joints and muscles.

6.    Increases Blood Flow and Metabolism

When you contract your muscles during exercise, you increase the blood flow going to them. When you massage yourself with a foam roller, you also increase the blood flow. In the latter case, however, the increase in blood flow doesn’t come with straining the muscle.

The increased blood flow brought about by foam rolling will greatly help with the recovery process. There’s more than that. Since metabolism and blood flow are notorious for being coupled together, there’s a chance that your metabolism may increase. This will lead to more calories burnt, and more weight lost.

7.    Prevents Injuries

The effects of foam rolling compelled researchers to state that the activity can prevent injuries, leading to a rise in the use of that technique.

In their client-centric programs, many coaches include foam rolling to both prevent injuries and recover from them.

Anything that prevents injury helps you lose weight and get in shape. Because if someone’s body can’t exercise or move adequately, then losing weight will be that much harder.

Which Foam Roller Should I Get for Weight Loss?

Any foam roller will aid in your weight loss efforts in an indirect way. However, we can offer you some recommendations.

Best Foam Roller for Weight Loss for Beginners

We recommend the STOTT PILATES as a soft foam roller option. It’s built from high-quality EVA foam. This specific foam roller is durable and withstands rigorous, repeated use, because of its durability, its price is a little higher. However, it is worth it to have a soft roller that will not quickly fall apart.

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Best Foam Roller for Experienced Users

If you are already used to foam rolling, we recommend the Amazon Basics Foam Roller. You can read our full review of this foam roller here.

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Other Buying Guides to Help You Pick the Best Foam Roller for You

Check out these very helpful buyers guides directed at helping you to decide which foam roller is best for you and your unique needs.

• Best Brand of Foam Roller

• Best Foam Roller for Back Pain

• How to Choose a Foam Roller

• What Size Foam Roller Should I Get?

• Best Vibrating Foam Rollers

• Best Portable Foam Rollers

Final Words on the Benefits of Foam Rolling for Weight Loss

Weight loss can be quite challenging, which is why using all the help you can get is a good idea.

General weight loss methods such as healthy nutrition and regular exercise are imperative, but there are more subtle approaches that are often missed.

Foam rolling is one of those subtle, often-missed techniques that can help you lose weight very quickly. That’s as it enables you to exercise as best you can.

Without techniques such as foam rolling, people will be at more risk of trigger points, excessive soreness, and even injuries. That’s why foam rolling can save the day when it comes to losing weight!

The post 7 Benefits of Foam Rolling for Weight Loss appeared first on Body Mind Wellness Tools.