Homemade Gym Stuff: ...Allowing Muscles to Roll

 Feelin' a bit tight? Then have a look at Art Riggs' guide to DTM; here's an excerpt

...Allowing Muscles to Roll. Muscles should be able not only to lengthen, but also to roll along the long axis of the bones. Although this principle could be applied to the quadriceps, biceps, and other muscles, the calf muscles most easily illustrate this principle. If the soleus and gastrocnemius are "stuck" to the posterior tibia or rotated laterally or medially, their contraction may cause torsion on the ankle or strain to the Achilles tendon. As shown right, grab the posterior complex and lift the muscle away from the bone. When you reach the end range, it is crucial to be patient and wait for the adhesions to slowly release as you lift the muscles. It is equally important to determine if the muscles are able to roll easily along the long axis of the tibia or if there are lateral or medial restrictions that pull the muscles to one side. Roll the muscle to end range of restriction and wait for it to release so that when it contracts, it exerts its force on the Achilles tendon in a straight line rather than with torsion. Often the forces that disrupt proper functioning of the leg muscles (both above and below the knee) are in the superficial fascia, which thickens as forces of foot impact are transmitted up the lateral or medial aspects of the legs depending on the mechanics of the feet. Feel the tissue to determine if the medial or lateral aspects of the leg need more focus...

Deep Tissue Massage, Revised: A Visual Guide to Techniques - has all you need to know, in a clear and concise format, along with Art's easy reading style. Need to see it? here's the DVD

Who couldn't resist a massage like that! - Homemade Gym Stuff

Time To Get Fit - Gymboss Interval Timer