Rolfing was developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf (1896-1979) over the course of her lifetime. Originally a biochemist, Dr. Rolf also studied many other disciplines, including osteopathy, yoga, and homeopathy, while developing a unique way of working with fascia (connective tissue) to organize the body in relationship to gravity. She called her work Structural Integration, but others commonly referred to it as “Rolfing.” The word Rolfing® is now a registered service mark of the Rolf Institute.
Dr. Rolf established the Rolf Institute in 1971 in Boulder, Colorado. All Rolfers are certified through the Institute and trainings are held in America, Europe, Brazil, Japan and Australia. Rolfing is a postgraduate course for individuals who have completed the required coursework in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology, have demonstrated an ability in hands-on work such as massage and who have the maturity and sensitivity to work with people using this technique. There are currently over 1200 Certified Rolfers in 27 different countries. The institute has further detailed information about Rolfing at its website.
The Rolf Institute website contains the most recent information
regarding magazine articles and publications about Rolfing. Please use this link to access publications. The following article from Climbing Magazine provides a nice introduction and overview of rolfing:
Rolfing: The Anti-Gravity Device, by Mike Papciak.
The word Rolfing® is a service mark of The Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration.