knoxtnhorn

I have no idea what to look for in a foam roller for a cyclist. As a matter of fact, I had never really considered one until this year. I'm having some SI joint pain. Additionally, after using my trainer all winter, I'm continually pulling muscles (quad and calf) when running/playing soccer. After some research, I understand that ONLY cycling will cause issues with tight muscles when performing other athletic activities and that a post-ride stretch routine along with said roller will be of some benefit.

I'm looking at some on Amazon but I just don't know what to look for, what size, does it need ridges/texture, etc...

I saw the following at a marathon expo yesterday and it looked extremely easy to use on my lower back. Would this work?

https://www.amazon.com/Tiger-Tail-Rol...ds=foam+roller

Poohblah

This one (wooden) for the back and a high-density foam roller like this one for the legs come recommended by friends and family members who are cyclists.

alpha_bravo

I have an item like that called The Stick which I like for my calves and achilles. But it's no replacement for a true foam roller. You just can't get the same pressure with that as you can laying directly on a foam roller.

I love my Grid 2.0, it's pricey, but can be had for about $55 online. There is a shorter one that's significantly cheaper, but the longer one feels more stable and is more user friendly. Although I don't really buy the different zones having any real benefit, it's more firm than traditional foam rollers. You can also make your own by getting some large diameter PVC pipe and wrapping a cheap yoga mat around it.

deep_sky

Honestly, I would start with the soft white foam roller and go from there. If you aren't used to it, it will be quite painful at first, and a softer roller helps with this. Eventually you need to move to a harder roller, but I would not want to start with a very hard roller or it will be so painful you won't want to stick with doing it on a regular basis, and doing it with regularity is key.

knowledgdropper

+1 for "The Stick".

I have a Rumble Roller that I use once or twice a week. I got the higher density foam (harder) and it hurts sooo good.

rbart4506

^^^That Rumble Roller is a true pain making machine, but it cuts through the crude and loosens up my glutes like nobody's business...

Reminds me, after a 6.5hr weekend of training I need me some foam roller!

beatlebee 

Another vote for the Rumble Roller

rangerdavid

you can have mine

ECT

No problem. I recommend you get a foam roller.

CALE262

Another fan of the "rumble roller"...I love and hate mine, start with the blue

Bigtremendous

Same here, rumble roller. It's awesome, but I have never tried another roller.

jwill87ta

I have the black foam roller from Perform Better. It gets the job done. I also have "The Stick" and that works very well for loosening up the legs.

Nachoman

I find "The Stick" virtually worthless.

MisterGaspar

https://www.amazon.com/Trigger-Point-.../dp/B0040EGNIU

i love mine

Adrianinkc

I've been using the sprinter stick for about a month and haven't used the foam roller anymore.

MrTuner1970

This.

I like free

I have one of these and I agree. The concept is good but the product is expensive and works no better than a standard kitchen rolling pin.

MisterGaspar

A 12 lbs medicine ball like this

https://www.amazon.com/Valeo-Medicine...ef=pd_sbs_sg_1

Works great when laying my legs out and rolling the ball over my quads.

Makes a nice workout weight, too!

creonte

I use the high density black foam roller, and a lacrosse ball which you can find both at Sports Authority.

jeepseahawk

Walmart has one that I bought, really cheap and works just fine. Used it when having IT band issues.

beatlebee 

Golf and tennis balls are great too.

Miller2

Ditto.....

Number400

I have struggled with SI Joint pain and even complete immobilization of my SI Joints and have a foam roller and worked with a Dr. several times along with PT, exercise, etc...

I have had a miraculous recovery in only 13 days, no kidding. I hurt my collarbone and have been forced to sleep on my back for the last two weeks. I am normally a stomach sleeper and that is my go to position but I will never sleep on my stomach again. It apparently puts super stress on the SI Joints and causes all sorts of issues. No kidding, I went from barely being able to bend at the waist and failing the SI Joint test to now almost being able to touch my toes! I still have tight hamstrings but am working on those.

ryder0182

+1
Use this after shoulder rehab, world of difference

Makel

Quote:

Originally Posted by CALE262

Another fan of the "rumble roller"...I love and hate mine, start with the blue

I'm cringing and drooling at the same time.

I have a touchpoint foam roller, but I want one of these now.