Sports massage is one of the most popular massage specialties as clients’ fitness activities lead them to natural methods of pain relief and improved athletic performance. Anyone who routinely stretches their physical limits through movement such as running, cycling, hiking, swimming, tennis, strength training and aerobics can benefit from a massage.
Just a few of the benefits of sports massage are:
Improved Athletic Performance. This is achieved in part by increasing flexibility through stretching, releasing antagonist muscles and releasing trigger points which rob muscles of energy. Massage improves range of motion & shortens recovery time between workouts.
Event Preparation & Recovery. Pre-event massage is normally shorter (10-15 minutes) than a regular conditioning massage, and focuses on warming-up the major muscles to be used, and getting the athlete in a good mental state for competition. It improves tissue pliability, readying the athlete for top performance. It also relieves conditions which may cause injury. Pre-event massage enhances circulation and reduces excess muscle and mental tension prior to competition. Post-event massage helps an athlete recover from soreness thereby allowing them to continue workouts without feeling sore. It is geared toward reducing the muscle spasms and metabolic build-up that occur with vigorous exercise.
Don’t be shy when asking about your massage therapist’s background training and credentials. A well trained sports massage therapist will have a solid understanding of anatomy and physiology principles that allow them to accurately assess and treat using proper techniques.
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