Many personal trainers recommend foam rolling the entire body before a workout. That’s not only unnecessary—it can actually be counterproductive. Instead, adjust muscle tone accordingly: find tight tissue and release it, and vice versa.👉 For more on this approach, check out Foam Rolling and Pain. Generally, rolling just two key areas is enough for most…
I read research papers on a regular basis. It helps me stay current in the field, but my approach to personal training is based first and foremost on observations made in the trenches—not in the lab. Often, it can take a while for science to catch up. Case in point: yesterday I received the latest…
Whenever possible, invest in professional massage therapy. A deep-tissue massage can target specific problem areas that need extra attention, while a full-body massage can help alleviate stress and promote overall relaxation. These treatments are invaluable for maintaining muscle health and setting the proper tone for continual progress in the gym. Self-massage is another effective tool…
Foam rolling, a popular form of self-myofascial release, is often touted for its potential benefits—one of which is reducing pain during workouts. The irony, of course, is that foam rolling itself can be quite painful, especially when you’re just starting out. Pain Tolerance and Foam Rolling Pain tolerance plays a role in how you approach…