Pro-Tec Athletics Roller Massager w/ Trigger Point Release Grips - Made in USA

UPDATE March 10, 2015: I have found this to be better than expected. The benefit is you can easily "articulate" this roller to get at spots that you may find difficult with the foam roller. I still use this in conjunction with foam roller (roll glutes and under back of thigh). However, I really find this roller great since I can "spot" roll release points. Specifically, I found that rather than having to position a roll with my IT Band and quads, I can now just get to the spot and work it then move it around to take care of what I would have done with roller. I can also use this roller and place in down to your lower back, hold at a slight angle and roll the tensor fasciae latae (TFL) (it's a small muscle between hip and pelvis), while in a standing position (helps when I'm at the driving range). While in a sitting position and take the soft end roller and prop it up on the floor and place it under my bent leg (feet flat on floor) right above and under the knee towards the outside (at least there's a trigger point there that needs some work). - END OF UPDATE.After I get my deep glute muscles fixed, I will use this to compliment the use of my foam roller. This 18" travel roller is easy to manipulate and I will be keeping in my golf bag to take with me to the driving range and on the course. I will take the precaution to do my normal stretching prior to play and then during play plus roll my calf, shin, IT, lower back (time permitting). I would recommend the longer (22") roller if you opt to use this in place of a large foam roller.In my opinion, while stretching is important as a routine exercise, consider this and/or a foam roller to massage your muscles as a routine.Check with your physician prior to use.

I purchased another roller-massager but it had hard, plastic rollers. I like this one much better. The rollers have give and the yellow handles are also rubbery.It comes with instructions on a small, folded paper. It would be helpful to have larger instructions/photos.I use this primarily on my calves after hiking. I am prone to cramping so, along with extra water, electrolyte drinks and magnesium tablets I do prophylactic massage. It does feel good especially on the front of my calves but I cannot say for certain if it does anything. I figure that it is pretty harmless at any rate.I paid about 10% more than the current price AND I saw this for about half the price at an REI store. I almost never say that REI is cheaper than Amazon but there it is. I did not see this online but it is worth checking locally (I almost never say that either) if that is handy.

i'm a pretty active individual and this tool can be a real life saver after a long day. if you've ever had muscle tightness at the end of a workout, this tool is great for loosening them up. when deciding between the pro-tec and The Stick, keep in mind that the pro-tec has cushioned handles and hardened rubber rollers, compared to The Stick, which has hard plastic handles and rollers. one thing to watch out for with the pro-tec is that the lubricant, between the base tube and outer roller, creeps out and can get on to your clothing.

Am so glad we bought the travel size. It's definitely a good size for travel, and it's easy to use behind the back for glutes, QL, etc. This specific product was recommended to me by a PT. Really easy to use and it does a great job of releasing muscle tension. I wasn't a fan of the packaging....the company put stickers on the rubber that left white residue, and you can't return for a clean one.

It is very sturdy as a leg roller. The metal bar won't bend unlike some other leg rollers I have used. However, do not put it on the ground and use it as a foot roller. You will crack the plastic tube. This makes it less versatile.I ended up buying a heavy duty rolling pin. It can double as a leg and foot roller which is nice when traveling.

I have a foam roller and it feels like torture! If you've used one then you know what I mean lol The physical therapist said I should use one though so I decided to try the stick version and see if it'd be easier... The foam on the stick is still really hard but it's not as painful as the roller for me. It's easier for me to apply different levels of pressure with the stick. Easy to use-- Would recommend!

I use this after exercising to help loosen muscles. This dies an excellent job!

A question for you pro-tech massager users! I have one but am not sure how to use it re number of rolling repetitions. Also if rollers must stay apart or can they be pushed together. I have the traveler size since I'm a small person! So far I love it! Thanks ahead to anyone who can provide advice!