Foam rolling improves postural stability and reduces interlimb asymmetry across firm and foam surfaces, but vibration adds no further benefit

The identification of effective warm-up and recovery interventions remains an important focus in sports science and coaching. This study examined the acute effects of foam rolling (FR), with and without vibration (VFR), on postural control and interlimb asymmetry across firm and foam surface conditions in trained men. Twenty-six male athletes (19.8 ± 1.4 years) completed FR, VFR, and dynamic stretching (control) conditions in a randomized crossover design. Single-leg postural sway was assessed on firm and foam surfaces using a force plate. Center of pressure variables included anteroposterior velocity, mediolateral velocity, total sway velocity, and sway area. FR significantly reduced ML and total sway velocity compared with control ( p < 0.05), whereas no differences were observed between FR and VFR. A significant limb × condition interaction ( p < 0.001) showed that interlimb asymmetry present in the control condition disappeared following FR and VFR. Surface instability increased all sway measures ( p < 0.05). FR may therefore represent a practical strategy for acutely improving postural control and reducing interlimb asymmetry relative to dynamic stretching in trained men, whereas vibration did not provide an additional benefit. These findings support the potential use of conventional FR within warm-up routines when acute postural control is a priority. Future research should examine whether these acute benefits translate into improved sport performance over time.