Coaching Tip:  Use This Household Item for Rolling Sore Muscles

In my pre-triathlon days, I was a weekend baker. I created everything tasty from yeast breads to elaborate cheesecakes and layered brownies. I was known for my baked goods and shared them at events and parties, including co-workers’ birthday celebrations.

Then I started training for Ironman triathlon, and the free time disappeared (and I have a greater awareness of how sugar affects my body). The last thing I want to do after a 5-hour bike ride and an hour run is to stand at the counter and mix ingredients. I want my couch and NormaTec boots – or my rolling pin.

We can all benefit from self-myofascial release (SMR). What does that mean? It is what you do with your foam roller, stick massager, or trigger point muscle roller. According to the National Association for Sports Medicine, benefits of SMR include:

• Corrective muscle imbalances
• Improvement of joint range of motion
• Relief of muscle soreness and joint stress
• Improvement of neuromuscular efficiency
• Relaxation of muscles
• Provision of optimal-length relationships

In short, SMR makes muscles feel good and helps put them in proper form to be able to do what you want them to do in your next workout. It gives them some TLC.

During a recent visit to my holistic chiropractor, he suggested I incorporate SMR into my daily routine and asked if I have a rolling pin. I sure do, from my baking days. According to him, a rolling pin is a great substitute for a foam roller or rolling stick. He encouraged me to always roll towards my heart to avoid varicose veins and other possible health issues, which I will allow you to research, as I am in no way a medical professional and am only sharing my experience and what I was told.

I now use my rolling pin daily. I often carry it in my backpack, and my next adventure will be to see if TSA will allow me to take it in my carry-on luggage.

Next time you need some self-myofascial release, reach for your rolling pin.