Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify if using a foam roller on the hamstring muscles would have positive effects and in tum increase hamstring flexibility. Hamstring injuries are prevalent in sports today. Lack of flexibility is seen as a possible cause for these injuries, so this study focused on a potential way of increasing hamstring flexibility. Self-induced myofascial release, using a foam roller, was the type of intervention used to try to have an effect on hamstring muscle flexibility. The use of a foam roller is becoming a popular tool utilized in many settings but there has been little research done on the benefits of this tool.Eighteen college students from a weight training class participated in this four week study. Eight participants were in the control group, while ten participants used the foam roller two times per week for the four weeks study. Participants used the foam roller for three to five minutes each time they rolled out.
The sit-and-reach method was used before and after the four week study to determine hamstring flexibility. Each participant completed three trials for the sit-and-reach test and the average score was calculated from their trials. Paired t test analysis was used to determine the relationship between the control group and the myofacial foam rolling group in relation to hamstring flexibility. A p value of .05 was used to analyze the data.
| Date of Award | 2013 |
|---|---|
| Original language | American English |
| Awarding Institution |
|
| Supervisor | John Storsved (Supervisor) |