Are you one of those who can’t quite remember the last time they had a session of sports massage therapy? Do you frequently experience soreness that doesn’t appear to go away after working out, but seems to be made worse by it?
Whether or not you are an athlete, sports massage therapy is a fantastic way to keep your body feeling healthy and energized. Regular sessions are the best method to unwind, relax, and recover, which will help you maintain maximum health.
That is, of plenty of benefits. But do you know how to get the best out of your massage?
Continue reading to find out what sports massage therapy is for you and how to benefit most from it.
What Is Sports Massage Therapy?
Sports massage therapy is designed to help athletes recover from injuries and improve their performance.
Massage can help to increase blood flow and flexibility, and reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Sports massage therapists use a variety of techniques, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy.
They may also use stretching and myofascial release. Sports massage therapy can be used before, during, or after athletic events. It can be beneficial for both amateur and professional athletes.
Types of Sports Massage Therapy
There are three types of sports massage therapy: pre-event, post-event, and maintenance. Each type has different benefits and purposes.
Pre-event Sports Massage Therapy
This sports massage is performed as part of a warm up before an event or competition, or it can be used to help relieve pain and tension in muscles after an event or competition to prevent injury.
Pre-event sports massage therapy is a form of bodywork that is designed to help prevent sports injuries. Additionally, it is employed to enhance performance and shield against future accidents.
Post-event Sports Massage Therapy
Post-event sports massage therapy is designed to help your body recover from the stress and strain of vigorous exercise by addressing the muscles that were used during your event.
This type of massage typically focuses on the major muscle groups that were used during your event, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.
The therapist may also work on other muscle groups, as well as on connective tissue and joints, to help your body recover from the event and prepare for the next one.
Maintenance Sports Massage Therapy
Maintenance sports massage therapy is performed on a regular basis to help maintain the health of the muscles and prevent injury.
To get the most out of your sports massage therapy, it is important to understand which type is best for you and your specific needs.
The Benefits of Sports Massage Therapy
The benefits of massage therapy to be gained are the reason you should consider it.
Sports massage therapy can be done before, during, or after competition, and it can be done as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies and treatments.
When used correctly, sports massage therapy can help you train harder and longer while also helping your body recover more quickly from the rigors of training. This can lead to improved performance and a reduced risk of injury.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Sports Massage Therapy
Sports massage therapy can help improve your flexibility, range of motion, and reduce muscle soreness. It can also help you recover from an injury faster.
If you are considering getting a sports massage, here are some tips to help you get the most out of it:
Speak With Your Therapist
Tell them about your goals for the session, as well as any areas that you would like them to focus on.
Be Prepared to Warm Up and Cool Down
Massage can be more effective if you warm up the muscles first beforehand with some light stretching or cardio. After the session, be sure to cool down with some light stretching or a cool towel.
Drink Plenty of Water
Massage can help to expel toxins from the body, so it’s important to drink plenty of water afterwards to help flush them out.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise for the Next 24 Hours
Massage can leave your muscles feeling tired and tender. It’s important to give them time to recover before subjecting them to intense exercise again.
Schedule Regular Sessions
For the best results, it’s often recommended to schedule regular massage sessions.
How to Find a Qualified Sports Massage Therapist
If you are looking to get the most out of your sports massage therapy services, it is important to find a therapist who is certified in sports massage.
Researching the types of sports massage therapy that are available and finding one that suits your needs can be challenging. A qualified sports massage therapist will be able to tailor the massage to your specific needs and goals.
And if you are experiencing numerous disorders that impact the neurological system and musculoskeletal system, a chiropractor is responsible for them. Make sure to do research for a recommended chiropractor.
Start Your First Sports Massage Therapy Visit
Knowing what to expect from sports massage therapy is also important.
Your therapist will likely use a variety of techniques and they will also use their hands, elbows, and forearms to stretch and knead your muscles.
Sports massage can be beneficial for both acute and chronic injuries. After the massage, you should feel lighter, more relaxed, and with less pain.
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