All Glossary Terms
Recovery

Self-Myofascial Release (SMR)

Using tools like foam rollers to release muscle tension.

Self-myofascial release uses tools (foam rollers, massage balls) to apply pressure to muscles and fascia. It may improve range of motion temporarily, reduce soreness, and enhance recovery. The mechanism isn't fully understood - it likely works through neural effects rather than actually breaking up fascia or "knots."

Examples

  • Foam rolling quads and IT band
  • Lacrosse ball on glutes
  • Pre or post workout

Related Terms

Foam Rolling

Self-myofascial release technique using a foam roller to reduce muscle tightness.

Sports Massage

Manual manipulation of soft tissue to promote recovery and reduce muscle tension.

Mobility

The ability to move a joint actively through its full range of motion with control.

Exercises using a foam roller

11 exercises in the library use a foam roller.

Hamstring-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Iliotibial Tract-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Latissimus Dorsi-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Lower Back-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Peroneals-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Piriformis-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Quadriceps-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

Rhomboids-SMR

Stretching · Foam Roll

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