For the Love of Foam

After switching gyms and feeling like the new kids on the block we are finally starting to be comfortable at the impeccabley clean 24 hour fitness in Arlington, Texas. Teaching ourselves the ins and outs of the weight area hasn't been easy and since Anna has the memory of a small gerbil once her work day is over, it's been interesting to watch us wander around trying to remember what goes where. Lucky for us, we are the dynamic duo and we aren't afraid to look a little silly trying out new things-especially if we are together! So last week we finally decided to try out the awkward looking, yet so enticing foam roller- and it. was. amazing!!

WHAT IS IT?

It is literally a foam log about 6 inches in diameter that can give you all the benefits of a deep tissue massage without the price tag! At our gym they are over by the kettlebells and mats if that helps you any!

WHY USE IT?

It helps break up trigger points, stretch muscles and tendons and helps increase blood circulation. It also helps your muscles release lactic acid build up which will help you not cramp up! 

HOW TO USE IT

It is really as easy as it looks! You use your body weight to roll yourself back and forth on the foam. Although not all positions are borderline sexual, you might find yourself with your rearend up in the air and if you are anything like us this will then lead to giggling while asking each other "Is it inappropriate if I do this?" But this is also why we might be kindly asked to never return to our gym...so-do as we say not as we do! The foam roller works great on your hamstrings, quads, glutes and the side of your outside thigh above your kneecap (your IT band).

So give it a try! It'll hurt so good but your muscles will thank you later! We have started incorporating it into our weekly routine at the gym and since they only cost about $20 you can even do it at home to avoid the stares that we get at the gym. But ours are pretty much self induced....