While it should be routine to stretch before a good run, studies have shown that stagnant stretching actually leads to injury.
Instead, a dynamic warm-up and foam rolling prior to a run is the best way to loosen up your muscles. Foam rollers not only help stave off injury but also treat a tight or pulled muscle gently. But with so many foam rollers out there to choose from, how can we know which one to pick? In honor of National Foam Roller Day, here are the best foam rollers of 2021.
Moji Heated Foam Roller
Moji Heated Foam Roller
For those with especially tight muscles, the Moji Heated Roller not only offers firm pressure, but also relieving heat. Twist the two halfs of the roller so that they come apart, and stick 'em in the microwave for a couple minutes to warm that baby up. It stays warm for a full 30 minutes, so it will last for your entire post-run roll out. Its rigid indents really dig into those tight muscles, and the heat helps loosen em up. 13 inches in length and 4-inches around, the Moji can hit almost anywhere on the body.
The Roll Recovery R4
The Roll Recovery R4
At a beefy 18 inches long, the R4 is designed for those who really need to dig deep into important muscles like their back or hamstring. The R4's central alignment groove helps cradle your neck and spine when rolling out your back. The thick EVA foam is immovable, and as one Runners World tester said, "It felt about as close to a deep-tissue massage as you can get without going to a masseuse."
LuxFit High Density Foam Roller
LuxFit High Density Foam Roller
The LuxFit High Density Foam Roller is just about the prettiest foam roller you'll ever lay your eyes on. But It's not all in the looks. The LuxFit is actually an incredibly affordable foam roller. Made from high-density black foam that puts pressure where you need it, the roller's smooth surface is not as intense as the others on this list. With that said, its lightweight build, four different lengths, pretty design, and affordable price make this foam roller perfect for someone looking to get into the practice.
Trigger Point Grid Foam Roller
Trigger Point Grid
The Trigger Point rollers are some of the most established foam rollers on the market, and for good reason. The Trigger Point's dense exterior foam helps the roller keep its shape for years. Like the LuxFit, it's a good beginner roller for those looking to get into the practice. With over 3,000 stellar reviews on Amazon, we can't recommend this roller enough.
The Rumbler Roller Original
The Rumbler Roller Original
With those thick ridges across three different sizes, the Rumbler is perfect for that experienced runner that really needs a roll that digs deep into your tissues. Perfect for knots in your shoulders and back, the Rumbler Roller surface is also antimicrobial, meaning it prevents the growth of fungus or bacteria. For those in need of an exceptional, high-quality foam roller, look no further than the Rumbler Roller.
