Athletic Performance

For athletes, keeping their muscles in prime condition is of paramount importance. Massage therapy can assist in this goal in a number of ways. The techniques used can help stimulate the muscles in the right ways, as well as supplement an existing exercise or training plan.

In particular, there are five areas where athletes can benefit most from massage therapy. The first is pre-event treatment. The second is post-event care. Massage can also counter delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS. Finally, it can be integrated into an existing training plan.

DOMS can be treated in a number of ways, with massage being an excellent choice.

DOMS comes from microscopic tears in the fibres of muscles, causing a build-up of metabolic wastes within them. There are many possible causes, but the most common are muscle overuse – such as due to an intense workout program. Insufficient warming up or cooling down can also cause the problem.

Massage techniques used in sports massage can counter DOMS effectively. This helps restore proper range of movement, as well as reducing the pain associated with the problem. It can help get an athlete back in training condition faster.

As part of a training program, massage therapy – specifically, sports massage – can yield many benefits.

Physical training programs focus mainly on improving physical fitness and causing weight loss, but can also be used to prepare for an athletic event. The addition of massage can help reduce the impact of a number of problems associated with such intense physicality.

Sports massage can counteract overworking of the muscles. It can also reduce tension, improve overall conditioning, and help prevent injuries.

An added benefit is that massage can lower stress levels. People who work out intensely, especially for those preparing for an event, tend to stress out. Techniques can be used to reduce this.

Finally, massage can be used before and after a major athletic event.

Pre-event massage can prepare the body for the intensive physical exertion to come. The techniques focus on stimulating the muscles using hacking, kneading, and beating. This allows for more vigorous exertion, as well as providing a mental preparation for what is to come.

The relaxing effect can also reduce stress and calm the nerves before the competition.

Post-event, massage will usually be performed anywhere from 30 minutes to 72 hours after. The use here is to increase blood circulation and remove metabolic waste, which may have built up during the event. Light pressure techniques along with stretching restore the muscles to their natural state.

Schedule a Call