Anyone use a foam roller? Had cramp like ouchy ouchy pain at top of the front /outside thighs doing an exercise in Pilates class

[Fitfor60]

After 30 min run went as usual to Pilates class and all fine except couldn't do one of the stretches cos of pain Pilates teacher said it was hip reflexers and showed me exercise to try and stretch them Saw on Internet people using foam rollers and wondered if worth getting one No pain running Any advice please

[Realfoodieclub Graduate]

My husband has to use one for his back but I've never tried it. I have heard its similar to sport massage. I've had that and it hurts. So I don't know how good I would be at inflicting that sort of pain on myself.

[Fitfor60 Graduate in reply to Realfoodieclub]

Thanks RFc Good point I like deep almost painful massage but not sure how easy it would be doing it to myself

[swanscot Graduate]

A lot of us graduates have a love/hate relationship with a foam roller - or two. I got a basic plain, blue roller on the recommendation of my sports physio when she was treating me for IT band syndrome. Using a foam roller supposedly breaks down the knots into the fascia of the muscles attached to the band, so helps healing. It hurt to use this initially, but gradually became less painful. After using this for about 6 months, I felt I was maybe 'too used to it' and bought a more 'aggressive' knobbly foam roller - the Beast (More Mile brand). I use this on my IT band, calves, quads and hip flexors and feel it is worth the 5 minutes of discomfort every day.

[Fitfor60 Graduate in reply to swanscot]

Maybe should go with basic one first swanscot But the Beast! Sounds something to look forward to using in future Thanks