Deep Tissue Massage This technique focuses on the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It involves slow, deliberate strokes and firm pressure to target specific areas of tension and pain. Deep tissue massage helps break down adhesions (knots) in the muscles, improving circulation and promoting faster healing.
For health advocates who choose "oms" over RPMs, a hot stone massage might be a better pick for your recovery. This relaxing technique utilizes stones heated up to 145 degrees to work through any knots, tightness or troublesome areas you have in your body, notes Healthline.
Massage can be used after exercise to help improve recovery. Massage encourages recovery from strenuous exercise or muscular injuries. Massage improves blood flow which can assist healing to damaged and affected areas. Minor injuries and lesions can be repaired quickly and effectively.
If you prioritize injury prevention, increased range of motion, and mental preparation, a pre-workout sports massage might be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you're focused on muscle recovery, relaxation, and injury rehabilitation, a post-workout massage may be more beneficial.
By increasing flexibility and range of motion, deep tissue & sports remedial massage helps to prevent injuries and keeps athletes performing at their peak. Furthermore, a sports massage can help correct muscular disparities and improve posture, producing more efficient and powerful physical output.
So, what happens to the body after deep tissue massage? Most clients report feeling mild soreness akin to DOMS after deep tissue massage. This usually lasts a few days after which time clients report benefits such as pain relief, improved range of motion, better sleep, and lower blood pressure.
Athletes often require a higher frequency of deep tissue massages compared to non-athletes. For instance, those engaged in intensive training might need weekly sessions to keep their muscles in optimal condition. For general athletic maintenance, bi-weekly appointments can be beneficial.
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While you can shower after a massage, waiting at least 2-3 hours allows your body to fully benefit from the oils. You can take a lukewarm shower (skip the hot water) a few hours after the massage. Remember to use a gentle cleanser to rinse off any excess oil, but stay away from harsh soaps and scrubbing.
Receiving a massage once you've finished working out helps reduce muscle soreness by reducing inflammation and reduces your recovery time by speeding up cell recovery. The key thing to bear in mind is that the massage should take place as soon as possible after exercising.
Deep Tissue Massage: Delving Deeper
It's particularly effective for bodybuilders experiencing chronic pain or muscle tightness from heavy lifting. Breaks Down Scar Tissue: Over time, bodybuilding can lead to the formation of scar tissue, which can reduce flexibility and cause pain.
As mentioned earlier, deep tissue massage primarily targets the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues. It aims to release chronic tension and break down adhesions. While therapeutic massage can include deep tissue techniques, it's not exclusively focused on deep layers.
People with Osteoporosis and Cancer that has spread to the bones should avoid Deep Tissue Massage because it can cause fractures in your bones. If you have an open wound or a skin infection, then reschedule your appointment. This way, you avoid developing a new infection and prevent the condition from getting worse.
Stretching Yoga Massage
This is especially important to avoid cramping and pain post-workout. The Stretching Yoga Massage achieves deep stretching, rhythmic compression and acupressure, for a Yoga-like massage. Perfect for relieving achy muscles and increasing energy.
If you need to relax your muscles and overcome fatigue, go for the Swedish massage. But if you have painful or stiff muscles, a deep-tissue massage would do a better job. It's also an excellent choice for people who train hard, like athletes.
To keep your body in good condition and maintain health, we recommend getting a massage every 3-4 weeks. This will help to prevent injury, pain, and tension build-up in the muscle fibers, as well as address any other issue before it becomes serious.
Sports massage is great for releasing lactic acid buildup in muscles that are sore from overuse or intense exercise while stretching is better suited for increasing flexibility and range of motion. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which method works best for your body's specific needs.
Just like all things fitness-related, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to massage and the impact it can have on your sports performance. But for most people, a post-workout massage will likely have more tangible benefits, such as reduced soreness, increased relaxation, and speedier recovery.
1. Swedish Massage. A quintessential relaxation technique, Swedish massage involves gentle to firm pressure, long strokes, kneading, and circular movements to relieve muscle tension. It promotes blood circulation, aids in lymphatic drainage, and induces a profound sense of relaxation.
Side effects
People may experience discomfort during a deep tissue massage, particularly if a therapist targets problem areas. They can let their massage therapist know if a massage becomes too painful. Although massage has a low risk of harm, deep tissue massage may not be suitable for everyone.