Why You Need a Massage Session after Sport

Why You Need a Massage Session after Sport

Are you wondering why you need a massage after sport? It is important you know the purpose and usefulness of any activity before you engage in it. This therapeutic activity is not done for the fun of it. It is a good way to set your body on the track of recovery. We will do a quick review of the types of after-sport massages and the benefits. We’ll also give you helpful tips on how to engage in this therapeutic activity effectively and efficiently. 

Types of after Sport Massage

We can categorize this therapeutic treatment into 3. They are:

  1. Effleurage
  2. Petrissage
  3. Deep friction

Effleurage massage is performed on the muscles by rubbing your palms in a stroking pattern in order to move blood out of a particular area

On the other hand, petrissage massage is performed by using kneading, scooping, and wringing strokes with deep pressure to loosen a tightened muscle. 

Similarly, the deep friction type can be done by applying force in transverse motion across a target tissue or muscle.

You can try any of these types of therapies to increase your blood flow and the general well being your body. 

Benefits You Stand to Enjoy

Stretch Therapy - Body and Soul Wellness Center

Are you still thinking of how helpful after sport massage is? Here some of the benefits you can get:

1. Increased Flexibility

Getting massaged after sport allows your body to become flexible. During sports, the muscles are stretched. And this results in microtraumas, muscle pulls, swelling, muscle tension, and cramping. It can become very painful if not attended to immediately.

Getting massaged after a sporting activity will help reduce swelling, loosen tired or stiff muscles, and maintain flexibility. This goes a long way to encourage blood flow and help the muscle back to normal. 

2. Enhanced Sport Performance

Having a sports massage before, during, and after sports generally helps with maximizing performance. This is always targeted at various parts of your body to control muscle stiffness and pain, muscle strain, oedema (swelling), tendinitis, sore spots, muscle tension, reoccurring strain injuries, muscle sprain, and muscle soreness. 

You will enable your body to recover quickly and remain in good working shape. Consequently, this will increase your performance. 

3. Prevention of Injury 

When you get massaged after sports, you have a lesser risk of experiencing major or minor injuries. This is because your body undergoes a systematic and gradual journey to rejuvenation. The muscles are tamed and treated with care to avoid after-sport effects that may be detrimental to it. 

You can use it as a precautionary routine to boost your sporting career. However, if you experience serious pains do not hesitate to consult a physiotherapist. 

4. Relaxation

Unlike spa massages that require high cost and scheduled appointments, there are modern massage chairs that you can use from the comfort of your home or gym. These chairs work by applying pressure at the level of your choice, where you need it, and how you need it. 

There is no rigid rule for this therapy. So, if you need to relax, work-out, or recover after sports, you can always do so without stress. This can as well improve the quality of your sleep.

5. Reduce Muscle Soreness

Muscle soreness, also known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), can be temporarily treated with the right massage therapy. This condition is usually caused by electro stimulation, fatigue, compression garments, cryotherapy, and decreased muscular strength. 

Massaging will help to prevent the onset and decrease the impact of DOMS. This will help to balance your lactate levels and changes in blood flow. As a result, your body gradually returns to its homeostatic state. 

6. Clear Lactic Acids

We understand that the blood produces large amounts of lactic acid after a strenuous physical activity. This goes a long way to contribute to pains or soreness that may be experienced after it. So, with this muscle rub down, you can drastically eliminate excess lactic acid from your muscles. 

Tips for Effective and Efficient After-Sport Massage

No doubt, there are several benefits of after-sport massage but if it is not done properly, it can have an adverse effect. Here are some helpful tips for effective after-sport massage:

1. Stay Hydrated

Taking an adequate amount of water will help to reduce dilated blood vessels as well as aid blood circulation. Dehydration can stiffen the muscle tissues and cause painful sessions. Make sure you take enough water before massaging. 

2. Be Willing and Open to the Massage Process

Having an open and receptive mindset will enable you to benefit maximally from after-sport massage. You can always ask questions and speak out on your feelings and fears during the process. Also, it is important that you know your body system and how well it responds to after-sport massage.

3. Consistent Practice 

You should carry out after-sport massage one or two hours after sports. It is not a matter of convenience but a necessity. Like a machine that needs repair and maintenance, the body needs to be treated and revitalized after a strenuous activity like sport. Ensure you always have a routine schedule for after-sport massage. 

4. Relax

Relax your muscles and your mind to effectively enjoy an after-sport massage. Tightening or hardening of the body can make it counter-productive. So, ensure you clear your mind, breathe normally, and focus more on how the massage feels.  

5. Give Feedbacks

Since your body always goes through stress, do not wait until when you are in pain before doing an after-sport massage. Also, you will have to spend more to rehabilitate an injury. So, it is best to always be proactive.

You may want to read this article for more details on getting massaged after any sporting activity.

Conclusion

Enjoy a proper massaging after-sport is one activity you should take seriously to advance your career. You can get some modern equipment to help your body relax at your own pace. 

So, ensure you study your body system and know what works best for you. Do not forget to give your body the love and care it deserves.

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