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Foam Roll IT Band/TFL

BeginnerstretchTier T0
Foam Roll IT Band/TFL

Self-massage of outer thigh and hip. May help with lateral knee discomfort.

Targets: Knee
Muscles: Tensor Fasciae Latae

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, Lacrosse ball

Dosage

1

Sets

90 sec

Reps / Time

0 sec

Rest

60-120 sec per side

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie on your side with foam roller under outer thigh
  • Support yourself with bottom arm
  • Top leg can be in front for balance
  1. Foam Roll IT Band/TFL - 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 IT Band/TFL - Step 2 of 4: Spend extra time on tender spots

    Step 2 of 4

    Spend extra time on tender spots

  3. Foam Roll IT Band/TFL - Step 3 of 4: Rotate slightly to hit different angles

    Step 3 of 4

    Rotate slightly to hit different angles

  4. Foam Roll IT Band/TFL - Step 4 of 4: Switch to other side

    Step 4 of 4

    Switch to other side

Breathing

  • Breathe deeply
  • Exhale to relax into tender spots

Form Cues

  • This area is often tender - start gentle
  • Use top leg to control pressure
  • Breathe through discomfort
  • Don't roll over the knee

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too much pressure too soon
  • Rolling too fast
  • Holding breath
  • Rolling directly on bone

Safety Information

Can be quite tender. Start light and progress slowly.

Progressions

Firmer roller, more body weight

Regressions

Softer roller, use top leg to reduce pressure