Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/447803
74 Preserve Whole-Body Function & Balance by rhea Maze For Patsy Botts, it was relieving severe pain without having to undergo major surgery. For David Wolf, it was getting back on the tennis court after a herniated disc sidelined him in his 40s. For both Denver residents, their unexpected reasons for turning to functional-fitness programs, which are becoming increasingly popular, led them to a better quality of life. Baby boomers are gravitating toward similar untraditional exercise programs for many reasons, whether it's preparing for surgery, recovering from an injury, or simply wanting to function better at daily tasks. "People are becoming more aware that we need to move our bodies in different ways," says Kelly Devereux, a personal trainer at Greenwood Athletic Club. "We don't just work out to be a certain weight. We need to be able to rotate our body, walk up steps, and get clothes out of the dryer without hurting ourselves." Above, personal trainer Kelly Devereux teaches David Wolf the proper techniques of foam rolling, a form of self-massage that works by using the body's weight and the foam roller to gradually apply pressure to release tight muscles. "As our muscles, connective tissue and fascia tighten, they lose pliability," Devereux says. "Foam rolling provides myofascial release and is one of the best things you can due to restore function and reduce injuries." Consult a physician or physical therapist before foam rolling at home.