Who wants to run without pain? All of us right?! If I could promise that you would never be sidelined ever again, that would be pretty amazing. Unfortunately, I can’t promise that, perhaps someday! What I can deliver on is some guidance to help you get back out there more quickly. As runners, we’re usually adept at using our foam rollers, tennis balls, or whatever the latest contraption might be. There’s certainly nothing wrong with this, especially if you’ve found it helpful as part of your weekly or daily routine.
But if you’ve ever wondered why the same spots seem to always tighten up, then this video will be extra helpful. What often happens with a tight or overworked muscle, is that the fascia (connective tissue) around and adjacent to the muscle adapts to the bad pattern, and if it’s not addressed using a myofascial approach, then it may be fully effective. Using most common self-massage techniques concentrates pressure perpendicular to the muscle fibers. Using a myofascial approach, as we discuss in the video, puts pressure in the directions the fascia needs to be stretched in, which will help the muscles escape the strangle hold that fascia can have.
Enjoy the video and please let me know if you have questions!
Video: The importance of extending your hip with running