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Foam Roller Hamstring

Beginner
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Foam roller self-massage technique targeting hamstrings to relieve tightness, improve flexibility, and enhance recovery; commonly used in warm-ups and post-workout routines.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Hamstrings

Secondary Muscles

Glutes

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Mobility
Rehab

Training Style

Warm-up
Mobility Flow

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Hamstrings

10/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus

Glutes

4/10

Glute Max

Programming

Typical Rep Range

1-5 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds • Minimal rest between sides

How to Perform

Sit on the floor with legs extended, place foam roller under mid-hamstrings, hands behind for support.

  1. Lift hips using hands to apply pressure on roller.
  2. Roll slowly forward and backward from above knees to below glutes.
  3. Pause on tender spots for 30-90 seconds.
  4. Breathe deeply and relax into pressure.
  5. Rotate leg slightly to target different areas.
  6. Switch to one leg for increased intensity if needed.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Roll slowly and controlled
  • Pause on tight spots
  • Breathe deeply
  • Engage core
  • Avoid bony areas
  • Rotate for full coverage

Breathing

Inhale deeply through nose, exhale slowly through mouth to relax muscles during pressure.

Tempo

20-0-20

Range of Motion

Roll from just above knees to just below glutes, avoiding joints and bony areas.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid acute injuries or bruises
  • Stop if sharp pain or numbness occurs
  • Do not roll over knees or sit bones
  • Consult professional for chronic conditions
  • Warm up lightly first
  • Stay hydrated

Spotting

No spotting needed; self-performed recovery tool.

Common Mistakes

  • Rolling too fast
  • Pressing on joints
  • Ignoring sharp pain
  • Slumping posture
  • Overlooking one side

When to Avoid

  • Acute hamstring injury
  • Sciatica or nerve issues
  • Blood clot risks
  • Recent bruises or swelling

Build Up First

  • Basic body awareness
  • Ability to sit on floor

Also known as

Hamstring Foam Rolling, Foam Roll Hamstrings, Hamstring Self-Myofascial Release

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