Best foam roller for 2021 – CNET [CNET]

Foam rollers, which are used to increase range of motion and help ease muscle tightness, muscle knots and muscle soreness, are popular in the fitness world. If you need some help to smooth out the tension and kinks that build up from daily stresses, such as sitting most of the day while working, or if you’re looking for a good recovery tool after working out at home, a foam roller can help. 

Foam rolling is kind of like using a rolling pin on your muscles, which is a self myofascial release stretching technique — it can feel intense at first, but if you’re consistent with the practice, it will aid in muscle recovery. Plus, the process will feel good, and you’ll notice less muscle tension and soreness over time. Furthermore, a muscle roller can be used for deep tissue massage, muscle relief, ease thoracic spine pain relief, to loosen up a tight muscle, for myofascial release, relieving pain in plantar fasciitis, to increase blood flow, to soothe sore muscle and alleviate any kind of muscle pain.

Read more: These percussive massage guns can get rid of any muscle knot

When shopping, you’ll want to select a foam roll based on your needs and personal preferences. If you have an injury or experience chronic pain, you don’t want to use a roller that’s very dense or firm. Firm rollers are designed to give you a deep massage, which is helpful for athletes with tight muscles. If you travel a lot you may want a compact roller that’s easy to pack in a suitcase, but if you plan to use it at home, a bigger roller is easier to use. Luckily, foam rollers come in a variety of textures, density and sizes to fit your needs. Some include a standard foam roller, Eva roller, half roller, textured foam roller, vibrating roller, smooth roller, massage stick roller, traditional foam roller, and latex-free rollers like Rumble Roller.  

Below, fitness trainers and a physical therapist share their tried-and-true top foam roller picks, in a list that we update periodically. If you’re looking for the best foam roller for your needs, we’re here to help you find it. 

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