What is sports massage?
Those who exercise frequently, whether athletes or hobbyists, may find over time that their muscles become tense, tight or sore. There are many things they can do to keep their bodies in top condition, including sports massage.
Sports massage can be compared to Swedish massage and deep tissue massage, containing long strokes and kneading techniques. Sports massage is commonly used by athletes and people who exercise regularly to ease muscle tension, support recovery, and manage post-exercise soreness. Some athletes use sports massage in hopes of improving their performance or recovery time.
There are several types of techniques used within sports massage, including effleurage, petrissage and frictions.
What is effleurage?
Effleurage is a massage technique that involves stroking movements where the hands slide over the skin. This can be light, firm or deep strokes, depending on what’s needed. Effleurage is a common massage technique and is typically used to both start and end sessions, as well as between other techniques during the session.
What is petrissage?
Petrissage is a kneading technique that compresses and releases soft tissue. This can have a deeper effect than effleurage and may be used to ease muscle tension and improve mobility.
What are frictions?
Using the fingers and thumbs, friction techniques involve small, focused movements over a specific area of soft tissue. They are sometimes used over areas of scar tissue or tightness, with the aim of improving movement and easing discomfort.
Other techniques that may be used in sports massage include vibration, tapotement (rhythmic striking), compression, stretching and gliding.
Do sports massages hurt?
Some of the techniques used in sports massage can feel uncomfortable, but it should not be very painful. If you’re in pain during your massage, be sure to tell your massage therapist.
What is the difference between a deep tissue massage and a sports massage?
Deep tissue massage and sports massage can seem similar, as they tend to use the same techniques like effleurage, but the way they use them is different. Deep tissue massage uses deep pressure throughout the whole body, though it may focus on problem areas like the lower back. Sports massage is generally more targeted and will focus on the muscles used by the client the most, and this will depend on the type of exercise or sport they do.
What does a sports massage help with?
Sports massage can help you if you are in training, preparing or recovering from an event, and if you are in rehabilitation. There are a number of sports massage benefits, including the following:
Reduces tension and pain
Sports massage may help to ease muscle tension and reduce muscle soreness after exercise. Research on recovery after strenuous exercise has found that massage can help reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), although the extent of the benefit can vary. Massage can also feel relaxing, which some people find helpful as part of their recovery routine.
Preparation before exercise or event
Some people choose sports massage before training or an event as part of their preparation. The techniques used may differ from those used after exercise, depending on the individual and their goals.
What are the different types of sports massage?
The different types of sports massage you may come across include training massage, pre-event massage and post-event massage.
Training massage
Also referred to as ‘maintenance massage’, this type of sports massage is used when an athlete is training. Training massage is typically carried out between training sessions, with the aim of easing muscle tension, maintaining flexibility and supporting recovery. This means the athlete can stay on track with their training regimen.
Pre-event massage
A pre-event massage takes place before a sporting or competitive event. The techniques used will depend on the individual, their sport and what they hope to get from the massage.
Post-event massage
Taking place after a sporting event or competition, a post-event massage focuses on easing tight muscles. This may help to ease muscle tension and soreness and support relaxation after exercise.
Do I need a sports massage?
Sports massage is very practical and is tailored to those who exercise regularly. If you play sports or exercise frequently and notice your body feels tight or stiff, or perhaps you are prone to injury, you might find sports massage helpful.
While a sports massage can be relaxing, it’s worth noting that this is not the main aim, unlike some other massage approaches. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, contact a sports massage therapist to ask if they think you could benefit.
What is sports therapy?
Sports therapy differs from sports massage and typically involves a broader range of approaches. A sports therapist will likely use sports massage techniques. They may also use other approaches, including hot/cold therapy and mobilisation. Learn more about sports therapy.
How do I find a sports massage therapist?
You can use our search tool to find sports massage therapists near you. Once you’ve found a therapist who can help, get in touch to discuss your situation and learn more about what they can offer. When you’re happy, you can arrange your first appointment.
Disclaimer: At Therapy Directory we verify that massage practitioners have qualifications and insurance, or membership of a professional body, associated with massage only. We encourage you to check that they have the specialised skills required to offer sports massage specifically.
