Sports Massage
Sports massage has become an integral part of an athletes training and health regimen. An increasing number of trainers, athletes, coaches and health professionals are incorporating some form of sports massage as a way of creating a competitive edge. However, sports massage therapy is not just for the high performance athlete, but also for those that simply want to stay physically fit.
Some of the many benefits of sports massage are:
- Improves range of motion and flexibility
- Speedy recovery time between workouts
- Increases circulation of nutrients and oxygen via improved blood flow
- Reduces the chance of strains, sprains, tears in muscles and tendons
- Decreases and manages pain and muscle stiffness
There are three phases of sports massage.
Pre-Event Phase
This phase typically takes place within 3 hours before the event to improve performance and help decrease injuries. It is used in addition to an athlete’s warm-up routine to enhance circulation and reduce muscular or mental tension prior to competition. This phase is shorter than most massage routines and generally last 10-15 minutes. During this phase of massage a series of quicker paced compressions are administered to the primary muscle group being utilized and prepares the athlete for peak performance. This technique, enhances circulation, improves muscle pliability, eases any anxiety, and prepares the athlete for a more mental toughness and a competitive approach for optimal performance.
Inter/Intra-event
This phase of sports massage is administered during the actual event to help the athlete recover from a preceding injury or to prepare them physically and mentally for the next event. It is short term and focused on the muscles to be utilized during the event.
Post-event phase
This phase is administered after the event has been completed. It is primarily geared towards muscle recovery, reducing spasms, and the release of metabolic build of toxins that can occur after vigorous exercise. The recovery process is very important for tissue repair, general relaxation and mental calming. During this phase slower compressions, stroking and stretching techniques are applied to increase flexibility, lengthen muscles, tendons and ligaments that may have been shortened or tight from extreme workouts. This phase may last from 15-90 minutes.
