Any suggestions/resources on instructing a foam roller class?
Hi! I’ve been experimenting/researching etc. foam roller exercises, and core and balance work for quite some time. I would like to start offering foam roller sessions to my massage therapy clients, and possibly even instructing a class that would work on teaching self myofascial release using the roller. Do you have any suggestions? I’m searching for an “example” class/video on how to organize this. I would also like to amp it up after the class is used to it and do a lot of the core work. Do you have any courses on this? Articles? to help me get started??? Thanks so much!
~Amy
I suggest you check out www.meltmethod.com. MELT stands for Myofascial Energetic Length Techniques and is an absolutely phenomenal way to teach people self-treatment of connective tissue.
I have been teaching classes now for quite some time, and a have an ever growing very loyal following.
Hi Amy,
IDEA sells a couple videos that might help you out. Check these out: Foam Roller Challenge (https://www.ideafit.com/fitness-products/foam-roller-exercises) and Pilates on a Roll (https://www.ideafit.com/fitness-products/pilates-roll).
Hope this helps.
Magali
The videos previously mentioned are great resources. If you’re the type that likes more hands-on training, I’ve attended classes on how to teach these techniques through Exercise Etc. and Perform Better, at their respective fitness symposiums. The great thing about attending in person is that you get some CECs as well as the opportunity to speak with an instructor.
When I attend IDEA and other workshops I always try and find a class using foam roller especially those that incorporate or focus on MFR! A great website to checkout is TriggerPoint. They have awesome foam rollers and accessories!
Foam roller teaching can be tricking at first
Most people are timid and intimidated by them
I really have learned to ease into it
Start by having new people simply hold the roller and feel it, then begin to use it.
Let people know how essential it is for them to regulate the pressure they apply
Some people will actually fall off a few times, patience is key
I suggest learning a few specific moves that you feel totally confident with before you teach.
Practice with “friends” first!