Foam rolling is a great way to relax your muscles and help prevent soreness, tightness, and injury. The Lats (latissimus dorsi) which are the largest muscles in the back and responsible for a lot of movements, like lifting your arms up and down and stabilizing the spine. Spending a few minutes on a foam roller before and after these activities can significantly increase mobility and blood flow to your muscles, preparing them for improved performance. Rolling can also help reduce pain and soreness, increase range of motion, and aid in muscle recovery.

This video demonstrates how to properly apply pressure to the Lats with a dense foam roller for self-myofascial release, or self-massage. This technique is hugely powerful in easing muscle tension and allowing for greater range of motion in our shoulders.