Rolfing® Structural Integration is one of the oldest and most proven methods for working with fascia. This technique was developed in the early 20th century by the American biochemist Dr Ida Rolf. It is based on the targeted mobilisation of the fascial network that runs through the entire body.
Ida Rolf recognised that fascia surrounds, connects and holds together the elements of our entire body: They envelop every muscle, every organ and every ligament. As a connecting organ, they give the body support and structure. At the same time, they play a crucial role in muscle strength, coordination and body awareness.
Fascia is the organ of posture. Nobody ever says this; all the talk is about muscles. Yet this is a very important concept, and because this is so important, we as Rolfers must understand both the anatomy and physiology, but especially the anatomy of fascia. The body is a web of fascia.”
– Ida Rolf
Ida Rolf's early insight into the great importance of fascia for our posture and mobility has been confirmed and continuously developed by current fascia research.
In recent years, this research has gained enormous momentum. However, few people realise how closely this young scientific discipline and the increasingly popular fascia training are linked to Rolfing® Structural Integration.
Fascial Research and Rolfing®
Ida Rolf recognised that fascial restrictions and adhesions often prevent us from being able to hold ourselves upright effortlessly and move more easily. She therefore developed special techniques to gently work on the various layers of fascia in a targeted manner.
We must understand that our muscles cannot produce movement without the enveloping and partitioning of fascia. The actual muscle fibre is a relatively weak structure; without fascia, it resembles more a blob of jam than a real fibre. Without fascia, the force generated by the muscle fibre when contracting could not be transmitted to the bones, and no movement would occur.’
- Certified Advanced Rolfer® and Member of Faculty Peter Schwind
As scientific research advances, Rolfing® Structural Integration continues to gain relevance. New findings from fascia research confirm and expand on Ida Rolf's discoveries and emphasise the importance of the fascial network. Fasciae have only recently been recognised as our richest sensory organ for body perception. Processes that can result in chronic pain take place in them.
A key player in this field is Professor Dr Robert Schleip, renowned fascia scientist and Research Director of the European Rolfing® Association. As Vice President of the Fascia Research Society and Rolfer, he develops new, reliable methods for clinical connective tissue research and drives the scientific advancement of the Rolfing Structural Integration method.
Fascial Bodywork - the Core of Rolfing®
The fascial network is the domain of certified Rolfers. They work on the different fascial layers using special grip techniques known as the ‘Rolfing TOUCH’. Gentle manual manipulation of the fascial tissue using targeted pressure and stretching can release tension and blockages and restore the function of the fascia.
Fascial planes are sometimes like bandages. The body ties itself together, winds itself around, and really pulls the fascial bandage tight. A Rolfer wants to get it so that individual elements inside the bandage are able to slide and organize and adjust with movement.”
- Ida Rolf
The manual technique, combined with specific movement exercises, treats the entire body as a unit. Rolfing can help the body achieve a healthy posture and become more flexible.
Fascial Training by Rolfers®
More and more certified Rolfers® and fascia coaches are developing targeted movement sequences and exercises to train the fascial network, promote health and improve athletic performance.
[Fascia has] a significant impact on the smoothness and precision of movement. The fascial network also provides the foundation for generating power and speed, transmitting these to different parts of the body. Focused training of the fascial network can lead to performance improvement, sustainable injury prevention, joy in movement, and positive body awareness.”
- Stefan Dennenmoser, Certified Advanced Rolfer® and Fascia Trainer
Similarly, Markus Rossmann, certified Rolfer® and fascia coach, integrates current scientific findings from fascia research into his work. His method combines functional exercises, fascial stretches and manual techniques to strengthen the connective tissue and improve mobility:
It is important to stretch the fascia in all possible directions. Once the fascial adhesions are released, a swinging movement impulse must be generated. This is because a third of the force is not transported via the tendons, but via the fascia. The fascial system must therefore transmit kinetic energy.”
- Markus Rossmann
Both Dennenmoser and Rossmann offer training courses to become a fascia trainer, in which specially developed fascia exercises are taught. What these courses do not cover, however, are the unique manual techniques focused on fascia and the whole body that are central to Rolfing. “These special techniques are only taught in Rolfing training, such as at the Dr Ida Rolf Institute® Europe,” says Rossmann.
Rolf Movement™ can also be learnt there. This movement-orientated approach of Rolfing Structural Integration aims to achieve a changed, natural motor function through mindful physical exercises.
Put it where it belongs and ask for movement.”
- Ida Rolf
Conclusion
Rolfing® Structural Integration is a unique fascial method that is both scientifically rooted and based on decades of practical experience.
Through the targeted treatment of the fascial network and the integration of movement, Rolfing not only enables better posture and mobility, but also promotes deeper body awareness and well-being.
The connection to current fascia research and specially developed fascial training underscores the relevance of this method today. Whether as a therapeutic approach or as a preventative measure - Rolfing offers a wide range of possibilities to support the body holistically and improve our quality of life in the long term.
Author: Sabine Becker
Sources:
- Ida Rolf (1978): Rolfing im Überblick.
- Peter Schwind, Certified Advanced Rolfer® (2014): Faszien - Gewebe des Lebens. Das geheimnisvolle Netzwerk des Körpers und seine Bedeutung für unsere Gesundheit.
- Prof. Dr Robert Schleip, Certified Advanced Rolfer®.
- Dr Stefan Dennemoser, Certified Advanced Rolfer®.
- Markus Rossmann, Certified Rolfer®.
More on Fascia: The Power of Fascia
Learn more about Rolfing® Structural Integration.
Find out more about Rolf Movement™ and Rolf Movement™ Training.
Find a Rolfer® or Rolf Movement™ Practitioner near you.
More information on how to become a Certified Rolfer®.
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