ActiveWorkouts5 best foam roller exercises to speed up recoveryGive these foam roller exercises a go after your next workout to soothe muscles and reduce DOMSWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

ActiveWorkouts5 best foam roller exercises to speed up recoveryGive these foam roller exercises a go after your next workout to soothe muscles and reduce DOMSWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Give these foam roller exercises a go after your next workout to soothe muscles and reduce DOMS

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

foam roller exercises: person using a foam roller outdoors to ease stiffness in his calves

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Foam roller exercises have a whole host of benefits – it’s no wonder people are raving about them. They’re a fantastic way to speed up the recovery process after an intense session and can minimise muscle soreness. Complete these exercises after your next workout and you should find it much easier to get back to the gym the next day.

Foam rollers come in all shapes and sizes; some are smooth, some are bumpy and some come with additional vibrating features. Newbies might want to opt for a softer model, but those who are used to the self-massaging tools might prefer a firmer, more rigid option. Check out our guide to thebest foam rollersto find one that suits your needs.

Want something that will do all the massaging work for you? Opt for one of thebest massage gunsinstead – but be prepared to pay a lot more. We’ve outlined the benefits of both products in our detailedfoam roller vs massage gunpiece.

Below, we’ll dig into the benefits of foam rolling to understand why it’s worth including in your self-care routine. We’ll also ask the experts to walk you through simple foam roller exercises to aid recovery.

Benefits of foam rolling

When it comes to foam roller exercises, there are plenty of benefits to enjoy. Foam rollers are essentially a self-massage tool that help to make everyday movement more comfortable. Plus, you can work out without lingering soreness limiting your performance.

To get the best results, Abi Smith, rehab and pilates physiotherapist atSix Physio, recommends making foam rolling part of a holistic approach to your wellbeing. “The key is to prioritise a good night’s sleep, adequate rest and good nutrition,” she says.

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Foam roller exercises

Ready to roll? Autumn recommends the following exercises to take your post-workout recovery to the next level. “Each exercise should be performed for a couple of minutes,” she says. ‘It can be useful to take deep, slow breaths to manage painful areas while rolling.”

If you’ve not quite got to grips with your foam roller, check out our guide onhow to use a foam rollerfor even more expert advice.

How to foam roll quads

(Image credit: Getty)

Person doing foam roller quads exercise

(Image credit: Getty)

How to foam roll hamstrings

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Woman doing hamstring foam roller exercises

(Image credit: Getty)

How to foam roll calves

(Image credit: Getty)

Man doing calves foam roller exercises

(Image credit: Getty)

How to foam roll back

(Image credit: Getty)

Woman doing back foam roller exercises

(Image credit: Getty)

How to foam roll glutes

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Man using foam roller on glutes

(Image credit: Getty)

For best results, consistency is key. Be sure to practise these foam roller exercises regularly - you’ll thank yourself when it comes to your next workout.

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