Why should I have Sports Massage?

Whether you’re well into your training plan or just starting out, you’ve likely considered incorporating sports massage into your routine. While it is common to see elite athletes receive sports massages pre- and post- events, this practice is frequently overlooked by more amateur athletes and recreational fitness participants.

Here, we explore the benefits of sports massage for individuals at any level of participation.

What is Sports Massage and How Does it Benefit You?

Sports massage involves hands-on techniques to manipulate the musculoskeletal system—muscles, tendons, and ligaments—to enhance their function. This type of massage can release and reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and facilitate the removal of waste products like lactic acid during high-intensity activities. These benefits promote recovery and reduce the risk of muscle injury. Athletes prone to overuse injuries can particularly benefit from sports massage between training sessions, as it allows their muscles to fully relax and recover. Additionally, sports massage can aid mental preparation for activities or competitions.

Who Can Benefit From Sports Massage?

Anyone and everyone! Whether you’re a seasoned competitor aiming to improve your performance, new to sports and looking to ease muscle soreness, recovering from an injury, or simply wanting to prevent injuries after casual exercise, sports massage can be beneficial.

When Should I Have a Sports Massage?

Sports massage can be effective during preparation, training, competition, and recovery, with the focus of the massage varying at each stage.

• Routine Maintenance Massage: A sports massage therapist can develop a regular massage treatment program tailored to your sport and participation level. This can target specific muscle groups to maintain or improve range of movement and flexibility and help prevent potential trouble spots from becoming injuries. Your physiotherapist may also provide stretches and exercises to maintain benefits between massages.
• Massage for Specific Events or Competitions: Pre-event massage, used alongside warm-ups, boosts circulation, reduces muscle tension, and aids mental preparation. Post-event massage enhances recovery by reducing muscle spasms and metabolic build-up, helping participants return to training and competition more quickly and with a lower risk of injury.
• Rehabilitation: Sports massage can aid in the rehabilitation process for both acute and chronic injuries, speeding up healing and reducing discomfort.

Should I Have a Sports Massage or a Physio Assessment & Treatment?

Sports massage is excellent for promoting fast recovery and preventing injuries. However, if you have an injury preventing you from participating in your sport or if you’re struggling with persistent issues, we recommend booking a physio assessment and treatment. This will address problems in more detail.

For more information about sports massage, speak to our team at  01799 530 650 or click here to book online.