Rolling pin vs. The Stick

As you would expect with a group of serious, hard-training distance runners, our racquetball court/team room features an interesting mix of heating pads (pre-run), ice bags (post-run) and muscle rollers (pre- and post-run).

By far, the most popular muscle roller would be a device called “The Stick.” Many serious runners have “The Stick,” or a similar product called the “T-Roller.” Basically, you vigorously roll these things on your weary leg muscles to rid the lactic acid and generally provide a massage for them.

Sophomore distance runner Doug Ainscow prefers a more low-tech version of this, using an item that can purchased at your basic Dollar Store: That would be a Rolling Pin. That’s right. Instead of making chocolate chip cookie batter (editor's note/correction: an alert reader pointed out that rolling pins are generally not used to make chocolate chip cookies!) or any other kitchen use for a rolling pin, Doug uses it on his legs.

This sparked a debate over which is more effective. The consensus was The Stick is a bit better because it is more malleable to the muscles. There is no bend to a wooden rolling pin. Either way, both are therapeutic.

Share your thoughts on the subject if you are interested …