Top Gifts for Runners – According to the Experts
Perhaps buying the runner in your life a rock is too expensive. We are here to tell you a foam roller might actually be a better gift, even if they already have one. Technology for this tool is constantly changing and some of the new varieties are more effective than the original design. If the runner in your life doesn’t have a foam roller, you can get them their first one and send them this article so they know why they should have one.
Arsen Virobyan PT, DPT, CRGA from Prehab in San Diego explained if he could only have one piece of equipment as a runner, it would be a foam roller. Due to the variety of options related to this self-care tool, and the ability to aid in both warm-up and recovery, our last recommendation for running gifts (out of 7) is a foam roller.
Foam rolling is a form of myofascial release, a type of physical therapy that helps relieve pain or discomfort related to exercise. It reduces pain by easing tightness and tension in trigger points. Rollers work similarly to a massage, helping to break down adhesions and bringing blood to the working muscle. Trying to find the exact source of tightness is tricky, so using a foam roller for myofascial release works by covering a broad area of muscle.
There are basic foam rollers that are great for beginners getting used to the sensation. For individuals who already use one, there are rollers that are firmer, some that vibrate, and some that use heat and ice in addition to massage. While basic foam rollers are beneficial for runners, the next level up is rollers designed to get a bit deeper into the muscle.
If the runner in your life is not on the nice list, there are rollers that freeze for a combined massage with ice rolling. If you’ve ever used one, you’ll know what I mean. However, while it can be uncomfortable, it is a great tool for recovery as it allows for a deep ice massage.
Due to the variety, the budget for a quality, foam roller ranges from as low as $20 for a basic design to up to $200 for a vibrating one (and everything in between).
Over the past several weeks, we’ve given our top gift ideas for runners. If you missed them, they are posted on our blog. If you want to be sure to read all of our content, don’t forget to subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
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Keywords: running, runners, training, marathon, 5K, 10K, ankle pain, performance, knee pain, shin splints, injury prevention
Prehab is a science-based running clinic with locations in New York City and San Diego, also offering services virtually. Our mission is to help all levels of runners enjoy the sport with top performance, while preventing injury.
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