Although the name ‘Sports Massage’ suggests this type of treatment is specifically for athletes, non-sporty individuals can also reap the benefits.
Read on to explore Sports Massages and discover what they actually do.
What is a Sports Massage?
Rather than delving straight into what Sports Massages do, we thought it might be a good idea to start by explaining what they are. Sports Massage therapy uses a range of different motions to manipulate soft tissue and correct muscular imbalances. The following techniques tend to be used during a Sports Massage:
- Hacking
- Wringing
- Kneading
- Effleurage
- Trigger Pointing
During the session, the therapist will use a combination of these techniques, depending on your needs and condition.
What does a Sports Massage do?
Now to the main focus point, ‘What does a Sports Massage actually do?’…
Sports Massages work to enhance performance and significantly reduce recovery time. They are a very popular treatment and promote relaxation whilst, reducing muscle tension and improving circulation. These different elements work together to reduce lactic acid and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Receiving a Sports Massage after physical exercise can help to promote recovery and can be very beneficial between training sessions. The key aims of a Sports Massage are to:
- Aid recovery
- Promote relaxation
- Increase circulation
- Reduce muscle tension
- Lower heart rate and blood pressure
- Encourage the removal of lactic acid & other by-products products
What is the best time for a Sports Massage?
When it comes to deciding when to book your treatment, there are three main options:
Pre-Event
This is where a Sports massage is carried out prior to taking part in physical activity. It relaxes muscles and stretches the fibres, to maximise flexibility and increase the range of movement (ROM). The objective is to not only prepare the body but to also prepare an athlete mentally for exercise. They can create a sense of calmness and reduce tension, which better prepares the muscles to release endorphins during exercise.
Post-Event
After carrying out physical activity, Sports Massages can help treat overworked muscles and to reduce any inflammation. It helps to remove waste products caused by working the muscles harder than usual. This is achieved by increasing blood circulation, which aids the filtering process of lactic acid and other harmful by-products.
Rehabilitative
Sports Massages can also be used for rehabilitation and to treat current injuries. However, receiving regular treatments can also prevent future injuries from occurring and reduce healing time.
How frequently should I have a Sports Massage?
This varies from person to person and depends on how active your lifestyle is. If you don’t live a particularly active lifestyle, you won’t require Sports Massages as frequently, once a month should be sufficient. Whereas a keen sportsperson will require treatment more frequently, this is usually weekly or bi-weekly.
If you’d like to learn more about Sports Massage therapy, please contact us and a member of our friendly Olive Massage team will be happy to help. Or if you’d like to book a Sports Massage call 07711 633 512 or book online today!
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