Whether you’re a gym rat or a diehard marathoner, massage gives “recovery period” a whole new meaning. You’re constantly on the hunt for the next best thing to help you elevate your game, be it a new protein shake or a pair of shoes. But one way to enhance your performance has nothing to do with diet-and certainly not clothes. It’s massage therapy.
Many athletes swear by it. But massage’s benefit to a workout regimen also has hard data to back it up, specifically when it comes to increasing range of motion in joints, reducing fatigue, improving endurance and preventing injuries.
“Massage is paramount to the sports medicine formula,” says Scott Weiss, a licensed physical therapist and board-certified athletic trainer who treated the U.S. sailing team at the 2012 Olympics in London. “But don’t just go and get any massage. Talk to the therapist and select the right one for your activity and training schedule.”
We break down what type of massage you need to schedule and when.
Post-Workout
Schedule: Swedish massage
After an intense workout, massage can help you recover faster. “You won’t get that muscle hangover,” Weiss says. “Think of massage as a muscle flush. When you work out, your muscle fibers get engulfed. Massage helps work that out, reducing soreness.”
Pre-Competition
Schedule: Sports massage
Right before a big race or game, you probably will taper off your training to allow your body to be fully rested. This is the best time to get a sports massage. “A sports massage is all about loosening muscles up and getting them limber,” Weiss says. But there are different types of sports massages. For instance, a bodybuilder might need a very different type of sports massage than a marathoner. Be sure to tell your therapist about your competition so he or she can tailor the massage to your needs.
Post-Competition
Schedule: Hot stone massage
After the event is over-nice medal, by the way-you should be all about relaxing. Hot stone massage isn’t just the ultimate reward for a job well done. It also offers deep relaxation, pain relief and enhanced range of motion.
After Injury – Schedule a deep tissue massage
First know that massage should not be used as immediate treatment for a sports injury. If you are injured beyond typical muscle soreness, see your doctor right away. But once you’re on the road to recovery, deep tissue massage can help you heal faster. And it can help with chronic pain. It has also been found to reduce stress and improve mood, which may be necessary after an injury.
Schedule your Massage or Facial appointment today 661-251-3689. Massage Envy Spa Santa Clarita is on the corner of Via Princessa and Sierra Highway.