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Foam Roll Quadriceps

BeginnerstretchTier T0
Foam Roll Quadriceps

Self-massage of the front thigh using a foam roller. Helps reduce muscle tightness.

Targets: Knee
Muscles: Quadriceps

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

foam_roller

Home Options

  • foam roller

No equipment? Try: Massage stick, Tennis ball against wall

Dosage

1

Sets

90 sec

Reps / Time

0 sec

Rest

60-120 sec per leg

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie face down with foam roller under front of thighs
  • Support yourself on forearms
  • One leg can be off to the side for more pressure
  1. Foam Roll Quadriceps - Step 1 of 4: Roll slowly from hip to just above knee

    Step 1 of 4

    Roll slowly from hip to just above knee

  2. Foam Roll Quadriceps - Step 2 of 4: Spend 20-30 seconds on tender spots

    Step 2 of 4

    Spend 20-30 seconds on tender spots

  3. Foam Roll Quadriceps - Step 3 of 4: Move side-to-side to cover full muscle

    Step 3 of 4

    Move side-to-side to cover full muscle

  4. Foam Roll Quadriceps - Step 4 of 4: Repeat on other leg

    Step 4 of 4

    Repeat on other leg

Breathing

  • Breathe deeply throughout
  • Exhale into tender spots

Form Cues

  • Go slowly - this isn't a race
  • Breathe through discomfort
  • Pause on tight/tender spots
  • Don't roll over kneecap

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Rolling too fast
  • Rolling over the kneecap
  • Holding breath
  • Too much pressure

Safety Information

Avoid rolling over bone. Gentle to moderate pressure.

Progressions

Firmer roller, single leg for more pressure

Regressions

Softer roller, less body weight