Sports medical massage therapy focuses on the particular strains, pains, and fatigues related to your sport. If you exercise regularly, there are likely sports massage therapists near you who can help reduce muscle soreness, accelerate recovery and improve your performance.
What is Sports Massage?
Sports massage utilizes specialized techniques to:
Target Specific Muscles
Therapists focus on the muscle groups conditioned and fatigued by your sport:
- For runners – Glutes, hamstrings, calves and quadriceps
- For cyclists – Glutes, quadriceps and hip flexors
- For golfers – Core, lower back, shoulders and arms
Remove Fatiguing Waste Products
Kneading and compression release lactic acid buildup that causes muscle soreness and fatigue.
Increase Flexibility
Stretching and myofascial release improve range of motion and minimize muscle strains.
Boost Circulation
Increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to repair and rebuild strained muscles.
Benefits of Regular Sports Massage
Sports massage therapy can offer:
Reduced Muscle Soreness
Loosen knots and remove waste that accumulates with strenuous training.
Faster Recovery
Relax overworked muscles and shorten recovery time between workouts and competitions.
Improved Performance
Decreased muscle tension, spasms and stiffness enable better endurance, coordination and power.
Reduced Injury Risk
Shortened, tightened muscles are less prone to strains and pulls with improved flexibility.
Choose a Trained Professional
Look for a therapist who:
- Has sports massage certification from an accredited program
- Understands principles of exercise physiology and common sports injuries
- Can tailor techniques to your specific sport and fitness goals
- Recommends exercises to complement the massage sessions
Structuring a Sports Massage Program
For best results, aim for:
- Pre-event massage to prepare muscles for exercise
- During-event massage to keep muscles warm and flexible
- Post-event massage to relieve muscle spasms and speed recovery
Sessions 1-2 times per week alongside your regular training can maximize muscle performance, minimize fatigue and soreness, and reduce injury risk.
Conclusion
Whether you participate in recreational sports or compete at an elite level, regular sessions with a trained sports massage therapist near you can help revive fatigued muscles, restore range of motion, speed recovery and ultimately enhance your performance and enjoyment of your sport.