“Should be part of every runners kit” by Paul Holmes
Wellbrix is marketed as the 1st modular massage system which can provide a valid alternative and improvement to using a foam roller. There are 3 styles of Wellbrix (knuckle, elbow and finger) which can magnetically attach to each other to provide different configurations depending on which areas of your body you are working on.
I first came across Wellbrix about 6 months ago via Twitter (@wellbrix) and have since been toying with the idea of investing in them. I finally took the plunge and opted for the the starter set which provides one of each of the above styles. The service and support from the company was excellent with swift postage in which they also provided a personal note and a free carry bag. Additionally, they were very active in sending across instructional video’s – all of which can be found on their website (www.wellbrix.com).
Prior to receiving my Wellbrix, I would use a standard foam roller to alleviate any post run/workout muscle tension as well as occasionally using a variety of balls to get into more specific areas.
What I love about Wellbrix is that you are always getting into the tight spots and with different combinations can work on several of these at a time. Rather than rolling over an area, Wellbrix allow you to hold in position and work on specific knots by repeating holds of 20-30 seconds at a time. Running being my primary activity, I have mainly focused on working on my calves (this is easily the best thing I have used for getting into the soleus muscle), glutes, hamstrings and ITB (videos for all and more can be found on the Wellbrix website). However, as part of a morning routine, I have also been able to work on my back and neck (you can lie on the floor or use against the wall). Furthermore, I have been able to use on my hamstrings whilst sitting at my desk – Wellbrix also recommend for use on arms/elbows, which again can be performed whilst seated.
As someone who travels a lot, another benefit of the Wellbrix system is that they are small enough to pop into a suitcase or an overnight bag so I can use in a hotel room – something I could never do with my roller. This is a benefit for me as I find using a roller or Wellbrix regularly really helps to maintain muscle flexibility and hopefully help reduce injury risk.
Despite the pain (yes, there is plenty of that), I have really taken to using these regularly and find them simple and easy to get the right configurations to help hit those tight knots. To begin with I started by using the instructional videos and following how they were positioned and placed to work on specific areas. However, with a bit more experience I have found my own way using them to get the most benefit. For example, on my calves rather than having the knuckles (two pronged briX) side by side, I used them above each other to work into my soleus. I have the fingers (four pronged briX) attached and working higher up my calf at the same time.
I find that you have to gentle move around to help really find those areas with the most tension, but when you find them it is a great feeling to hold in place and then move on to the next spot. Wellbrix are the nearest thing I have found to actually having a sports massage for both the pain and the great feeling you have afterwards. If you wish to ramp up the pain, then all briX types come in a 20% firmer variation, but I would say it is best to try out the standard ones first.
In summary, Wellbrix have fast become a replacement for my foam roller. I spend more time working on muscle aches and pains than I ever did previously – something which I feel all the better for. Wellbrix are not available in shops at present, so it is difficult to try them out before you make the purchase. I would recommend following them on Twitter and keeping an eye out for when they may be at an event or race expo near you. For me, Wellbrix should be part of every runners kit – it has lived up to and exceeded my expectations.
Pros
- Modular system that hits trigger points and relieves tension
- Small and versatile for different applications
- Can be used at home, when you travel or at the office
Cons
- Really, the only thing I could say is that people may be put off by the price (just under £50 for the starter pack). However, 1) People pay similar amounts for a roller 2) Once you have tried, you will see they are worth every penny (so, not really a con after all!)
