This study revealed no significant difference in the interaction between the treatment and control group’s pre and post-measurements. The results of this study suggest foam rollers are an ineffective technique for increasing hamstring flexibility over an eight week time period. Further research is needed to determine if foam rollers are an effective tool in increasing range of motion in the hamstring muscle group.-Jacklyn K. Miller and Ashley M. Rockey 2006
I was set a link to study showing overwhelming conclusions to the foam rolling discussion. It is no mystery that I am in favor of rolling after heavy training and favor warming up and moving before speed or power work. The above study showed that after two months of hamstring foam rolling, length of tissue was not changed. The study doesn’t show that foam rolling doesn’t work, it just shows that that specific protocol and muscle group didn’t see favorable changes. We need to be patient with research as it’s not a guide, but a calibration process of our own records. I know a lot is at stake here, since money and fame (speaking engagements) hinge of being ahead of the research. In stead of looking for ways to support our beliefs, lets look at what is happening without bias towards being popular in the blogosphere.
I sometimes take an opposing point of view to create balance. It’s amazing how many people regurgitate the pendulum and reaction quote of Ian King but I think it’s wise to not get too excited about everything, good or bad.