Tag: hips

Simple Self Massage That Helps Release Tight Lower Body Muscles

Simple Self Massage That Helps Release Tight Lower Body Muscles

When it comes to being physically fit, massage may not be the first thing on your list of to do’s. Oftentimes, when one hears the word massage, a luxurious experience in a fancy spa comes to mind. You probably know it’s good for relieving stress levels but may be wondering how it contributes to helping you fit into your jeans.

There are three main components to physical fitness. They are strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. All three are equally important and work together to help your body move more efficiently, prevent injury, and burn calories optimally. Tight muscles can pull on joints which can lead to pain and/or injury. Once a body is suffering from pain or an injury, it can be difficult to follow through with an exercise routine, normal lifestyle activities, and in some cases even work responsibilities.

Over the years, the fitness industry has come to realize that one of the best ways to maintain flexibility and release tight muscles is to learn the practice of self-massage using tools like foam rollers and tennis balls. Massage, also know as release work or trigger point therapy, has proven to be more effective than stretching when it comes to releasing tight muscles and improving the body’s range of motion for the long term.

SELF-MASSAGE

Since massage is really more of a necessity  than a luxury, I recommend learning self-massage. When you know how to release tight muscles on your own, it allows you to have unlimited access to massage without taxing your schedule or budget. Even a few minutes a day can make a BIG difference when it comes to improving range of motion and relieving stress (which also helps with weight loss).

In today’s video, I demonstrate how to use a foam roller to massage and release some of the most common areas that can get tight in the lower body.  I also demonstrate some stretches for hamstrings and hip flexors at the end so make sure to watch the whole video.  I’ve also included some links below to help you purchase a roller of your own if you don’t already own one and a book that I recommend to all of my private coaching clients. The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook is inexpensive and walks you through step-by-step self-massage in a way that’s easy to understand. Foam rollers are a low cost investment that are worth every penny.

Enjoy the video and here’s to being fit and feeling good!

Shared with Love,
Jennifer

Click here to see FOAM ROLLERS

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Two exercises that will help tone your hips and glutes

The abdominal muscles are usually the first thing that will come to a person’s mind when you hear the words “strengthening your core” in a fitness environment. While the abs are a major player when it comes to supporting the trunk, there are other muscles that play an important role as well.

Hips and glutes are two very important muscle groups that help support your trunk otherwise know as your “core.”  They also help support your pelvis.  A stable pelvis can help prevent knee injuries which in turn helps you stay active and maintain your weight.  When you strengthen all of your core muscles you don’t just look better, you contribute to your overall wellness.

In today’s video I’m sharing two simple exercises that you can use to help strengthen your hips and glutes. The exercises are easy to follow and you don’t need any equipment to do them.  Take a moment to watch the video and if you have any questions for me leave them in the comment section on my website or leave a comment on my Facebook page and I will respond.

Have a great week!

With Love,
Jennifer