The art of massage has been around for a very long time, but only recently have the benefits of massage become an integral part of an athlete’s specialized training regimen.
Many professional athletes are now incorporating massage into their workouts because of the benefits. Their massage of choice is the sports massage.
The sports massage is a massage designed for athletes and their specific sport. As each sport requires a unique emphasis in different sets of muscles, a sports massage focuses on different muscle groups and types. The type and technique of the massage stroke will also vary depending on the muscle group that is targeted.
Sports massage is both a means to enhance pre-event preparation and reduce recovery time after training or an event. Sports massage will help to:
- Improve Range of Motion – Any athlete needs to be able to move further and better than their opponent. Massage loosens muscles to increase the total range of motion in the athlete, which yields greater performance.
- Shorten Recovery Time – Sports massage helps to shorten the overall length of time for recovery, returning the athlete to training and competition much more quickly.
- Increase Delivery of Oxygen and Nutrients – These two elements are vital for recovery and injury rehabilitation. The more and faster both reach muscles, the faster the muscle will begin to heal.
- Eliminate Waste Products – Lactic acid is a normal by-product of exercise. Sports massage helps to flush this and other waste products from the muscles more efficiently.
- Relax Muscles and Reduce Pain – Sports massage helps to relax tense and fatigued muscles, which in turn helps to relieve pain and tension.
If you’re looking to give sports massage a try, make sure you look for a professional (registered) massage therapist in your local area who regularly deals with athletes and sports injuries.
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