Foam Roller Exercises to Strengthen Hamstrings?

GoFit 6-Inch by 18-Inch Foam Roller with Core Performance DVD

I am a big advocate of using foam rollers and tennis balls for self massage when on the road or when I simply don’t have access to my massage therapist.

I covered the topic of foam rollers in a variety of past articles:

But what else can you use these bulky devices for?

Hamstring strengthening and rehabilitation!

Several years ago I pulled my hamstring when I had to race on 2 consecutive days, but decided to drive home each night instead of staying at a local hotel. Being in a car several hours each day was not good on the body posture and alignment!

Here is a brief description of the exercise:

You will need 2 foam rollers, preferably the 6 inch variety, and the half height ones (not the ones for full body)

You sit on the ground with no shoes. Place one foam roller under each foot. Lift your butt off the ground using your arms. Bring one leg back while the other is extended in a cycling or running motion. Just move back and forth with using your feet.

Trust me, if your hamstring is sore, doing 15 reps each leg may be a challenge.