National Foam Rolling Day is observed on May 11th every year and recognizes a surprisingly effective method of eliminating muscle knots and reducing soreness in muscles. Using a foam roller is also a great way for people to increase their flexibility using the technique of Self-Myofascial Release. Although some people may have just noticed foam rollers, they have been around for over a hundred years. However, with that said, we can say that foam rolling is a technique that’s more popular than it has ever been and one that some people might want to try out on this day.

The History Of National Foam Rolling Day

This holiday was created by TriggerPoint in 2015. This company is dedicated to making a variety of massage products including hand-held rollers, massage sticks, vibrating post-workout massagers, and of course, foam rollers.

The Benefits Of Foam Rolling

Foam rolling has been increasing in popularity over the last few years, and there are good reasons for that. Foam rolling is a great self-myofascial release, or SMR, technique that can help relieve inflammation, tightness in muscle groups, and muscle soreness. Let’s take a quick look at some of the benefits that SMR may offer the user.

It May Reduce Muscle Pain

Although there are not a lot of scientific studies on the effectiveness of foam rolling, one minor study suggested that physically active men who foam rolled for 20 minutes after exercise, and then again 24 or 48 hours after exercise, experienced less muscle pain than those men who didn’t exercise.

It Might Increase The Range Of Motion

Another benefit that hasn’t been completely investigated but is suggested by one minor study is that people might experience a better range of motion after using a foam roller. Once again, this was a small study, so more research has to be done before the effectiveness of foam rolling for increasing the range of motion is fully proven.

Other Potential Benefits Of Foam Rollers

Before we continue on, the following benefits of foam rollers haven’t been thoroughly proven by rigorous scientific studies, so consumers should take the following potential benefits with a grain of salt. With that being said, below are some supposed benefits of using a foam roller.

• Relieve back pain
• Manage fibromyalgia symptoms
• Reduce the appearance of cellulite
• Help with relaxation

Observing National Foam Rolling Day

This holiday is a good day for people who haven’t tried a foam roller to actually buy one and try it out. After all, as we’ve seen, foam rollers do have a wide range of benefits when they’re used properly. While you’re observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalFoamRollingDay to let everyone know you’re celebrating this holiday.