Biceps SMR
Self-myofascial release of the biceps using a foam roller to reduce tension and improve tissue mobility.
Instructions
- Sit on the ground or on a bench with your arms extended.
- Place a foam roller perpendicular to your upper arm (biceps) so the roller presses against the muscle.
- Use your other hand to push yourself along the foam roller, rolling slowly from the elbow toward the shoulder.
- Apply light to moderate pressure—not so intense that you tense the muscles.
- Spend 30-60 seconds per arm, rolling slowly and pausing on tender spots.
- You can also rotate your arm (internally and externally) while rolling to address different muscle fibers.
- Keep breathing steadily throughout the process.
- Repeat on the other arm.
Tips
- Use a softer foam roller if this is your first time doing SMR—harder rollers can be painful initially
- Breathe through the movement rather than tensing up, which will help the muscle relax
- Apply consistent, slow pressure rather than aggressive rolling
- This works best as a warm-up or recovery tool, not as a strength-building exercise
- If you find a particularly tender spot, hold pressure there for 15-30 seconds before rolling
- Combine with gentle stretching post-workout for optimal recovery
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 25 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 40 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1 min |