Best Foam Rollers for Better Mobility and Recovery
If you aren’t foam rolling, you should consider starting today—especially if you’re an active individual. Foam rolling is a form of self-myofascial release, also known as a self-massage of the muscle and fascial tightness. It’s one of the most efficient ways to warm up for a workout, and cool down post-sweat session. Why? Foam rolling has been proven to prep your body to begin exercise and help prevent injury. Foam rolling also increases circulation, flexibility, and range of motion, the more that you do it. And, post-workout, it’s been shown to increase blood flow, which can help reduce muscle soreness and tightness. The downside? Releasing your muscles isn’t always easy or enjoyable. Especially for those who don’t stretch or roll out on the regular, foam rolling can feel very tender on certain muscles and even painful at times—but good painful (if it ever feels too painful, stop and speak with your doctor or fitness professional to find out what’s going on). In order to start on your journey to a more nimble body, we’ve rounded up some of the best foam rollers below.
Our Top Five Recommended Foam Rollers
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Other Foam Rollers To Consider
321 STRONG Foam Roller
If you’re not a complete newbie but still wouldn’t consider yourself an expert foam roller, this price point is a good option for you. The soft foam provides relief without causing too much pain. Bonus: It comes with an e-book to learn new ways to use your roller, too. Check out the price here.
Doeplex Muscle Roller Massage Stick
Hold the handles on either side of this massage stick and roll it up and down on your calves, IT band, quads, or whatever muscle needs it most. It’s lightweight and not too big, so it’s easy to store at home, and convenient enough for travel. You could even throw it in your gym bag and bring it along with you for a great warm up and cool down tool. Check out the price here.
MOBOT Official Foam Roller Water Bottle, 27 Oz
Kill two birds with one stone when you purchase this water bottle that doubles as a foam roller! You’ll never be able to use the excuse of not foam rolling because you forget your roller at home. Plus, you won’t need any extra space to carry your roller with you if you’re already bringing your water bottle. Check out the price here.
1. Hyperice Vyper 2.0 Vibrating Fitness Roller
If you want to intensify your mobility routine, invest in this vibrating foam roller. Once turned on, you can choose from three different intensities depending on that your muscles can withstand (they can also serve as a way to track progress). The brand also claims that because of the vibrations, it’s two times more effective than regular foam rolling when it comes to warming up and actively recovering. Charge it up and enjoy two-plus hours of good vibes.
2. Brazyn Morph Bravo Foam Roller
Active jetsetters, look no further! This collapsible foam roller was made for those on the go. With a simple push on both end of the roller, it collapses flat so you can easily stash it in your suitcase or carry on. The result? More accessible foam rolling no matter where you are in the world! It’s a bit pricey, but fans say it’s made well and worth the money.
3. AmazonBasics Round Foam Roller
If you’re new to foam rolling, it’s important to perfect your form and skill first, so start with a basic roller that will allow you to do just that. This foam one is dense, but not too stiff, making it a good first foam roller option. Choose from 12 to 36 inches, depending on what part of your body you’re looking to use it on.
4. RumbleRoller Textured Muscle Foam Roller
The outer of this roller is filled with flexible nodules for a deep, more intense roll out session. They’re designed to feel like a massage sans needing a masseuse. And while the bumps are malleable, the foam roller itself is still made from durable materials that can withstand years of use.
5. TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller
This 13-inch roller has patented-design, multi-density exterior, so you can choose and change how intensely you want to feel it day by day. It’s extremely durable so it can withstand daily use if you’re rolling out on the regular. You’ll also gain access to online instructional videos to help teach you all the ways you can use your new tool.
