Rolfing, Biomechanics & The Athlete With Vernon Marshall

Rolfing is a series of deep tissue treatments that manipulates soft tissue, freeing the skeletal system and soft tissue structures, realigning posture, and increasing functional modality and flexibility. Biomechanics is the science concerned with the internal and external forces acting on the human body and the effects produced by these forces. Vernon Marshall has dedicated his efforts to enhancing and improving his clients’ lifestyles and overall well-being. His practice is based on the principles of Rolfing and biomechanics. CBBF National competitor Rachel Killam caught up with Vernon for this MUSCLE INSIDER magazine exclusive interview.

Q. How is what you do different from other massage therapists?

A. Rolfing focuses on reorganizing the body’s structure so that it is realigned with gravity and moves efficiently within the function of breathing. When assessing a client’s posture, I look at their whole structure with profile pictures. I also consider the habits that contribute to any of these imbalances. This can be how someone sits in a chair, how they hold their purse, or even body alignment during work-specific activities and sports. I work with my clients to design an individualized maintenance program that re-educates their body movements, aiding functional modality. My clients can expect increased flexibility, strength, and mental clarity, helping maintain their structural integrity and prevent further injuries, improving their overall quality of life.

Q. How would this kind of body work be particularly useful to an athlete?

A. Muscle bellies often become short and restricted with constant muscle contractions. This restriction prevents showing the athlete’s full muscle potential. I lengthen and separate muscles to balance the structure and allow room for growth and size. This will change the presentation of your physique. For the figure or bodybuilder competitor, it will make your deltoids, chest, and back rounder and fuller as the shoulder girdle becomes balanced and aligned. Deeper lines and separation in one’s thighs will become more apparent, allowing a novice competitor to show like a veteran. I’ve been able to take down or add inches to physiques. In one case, I have extended a client’s height by realigning the curves in their spine. In addition, I have reduced two inches off of a waist by lengthening the lumbar region and instructing on specific training techniques. In activities that require endurance or speed, opening the rib cage will increase total lung capacity, reducing fatigue from lack of oxygen. (Total lung capacity is the maximum volume to which the lungs can be expanded with the greatest inspiratory effort.) Myofascia is a connective tissue sheath that surrounds muscle groups. If this fascia becomes restricted, it acts like a casted wetsuit, decreasing modality. If the muscles are “congested” and not moving, you won’t have deep separation or expansion. I work with clients to free the muscle and increase the cardio function needs for all activities. This includes both weekend warriors and elite athletes.

Q. Are there any specific training rules that you need to follow after a Rolfing session?

A. I recommend walking and stretching after a session to get the structures moving. This allows gravity to adjust the soft tissue through functional breathing. I educate my clients to optimize their breathing potential. Proper breathing is important as it allows all our systems to work internally and externally in conjunction with each other. The more we can walk and breathe and allow our systems to “let go” of the muscle tension being held, the more beneficial it will be long term. I would advise against heavy lifting the day of treatment, because I have stimulated and fatigued your muscles already. That being said, it is normal to be sore a day or two following a session (delayed onset muscle soreness).

Q. I’ve heard Rolfing really hurts. Is this true? I’m not sure I want to subject myself to the pain!

A. Everyone’s experience is different. My goal isn’t to hurt anyone, but to make them aware of their structure and how to let the stress go through breathing. I start out softer with clients to get deeper. I don’t go deep into the muscle right off the bat. I work up to it. Any discomfort that is felt is well worth it once results are seen.

Q. What would you say sets you apart from other Rolfers?

A. Not all Rolfers are created equal. I feel my unique set of skills sets me apart. I have been a competitor, kinesiologist, personal trainer, and yoga practitioner. I’m able to make a better connection with athletes on every level and cover a lot more versus standard Rolfing treatments. I have the strength and endurance that allows me to work on a wide range of physiques, including the largest of frames. I don’t just work with someone for an hour and send them on their way until the next session; I educate clients on how to operate off the table in all their activities. As an experienced equine practitioner, I also work on horses and their riders to function cohesively as one unit.

You can learn more about Vernon Marshall at: skillfultouchmassage.net.
Follow him on Twitter @Vernon_Marshall
Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Skillful-Touch-Massage-Vernon-Marshall/163078180416972