EFFECT OF MYOFASCIAL RELEASE ON RECOVERY IN FEMALE MIDDLE-DISTANCE RUNNERS

Abstract

Aim. To study the effect of myofascial release on recovery in middle-distance runners. Mate­rials and methods. The study involved female middle-distance runners aged 16–18 years. The control and experimental groups consisted of 12 and 11 female athletes, respectively. During the cool-down, 15–20 minute sessions of myofascial release took place. The developed technique of myofascial release was aimed at accelerating recovery, improving blood circulation in working muscles and chest mobility, reducing muscle tone, and improving the functional performance of the respiratory system. Myofascial release was performed with table tennis balls, special rollers, and manually. Each exercise included a description of the body segment position and the technique of targeted application for balls and rollers. All manipulations were performed with respect to lymph flow, avoiding joints and lymphatic nodes. Results. Myofascial release during the cool-down resulted in an increase in the functional reserves of the respiratory system in the experimental group compared to the control group. In the experimental group, there was a significant impro­vement in heart rate recovery after exercise (р < 0.05); while in the control group, this parameter remained almost unchanged. Conclusion. Myofascial release as part of cool-down activities results in a better reco­very of the cardiovascular system, a better functional state of the cardiorespiratory system, and the improvement of adaptive mechanisms. Prolonged use of myofascial release can provide significant improvement in external respiration.