Sports massage is a staple in an athlete’s routine. It reduces the chances of athletic injuries, enhances performance and assists healing.
But the benefits of the same are not limited to athletes; almost everyone can enjoy this deep tissue technique and make the most of it.
For many athletes, sports massage is the key strategy to prevent injuries and improve physical functioning by enhancing blood circulation and soothing tensed muscles.
Techniques like deep tissue massage, stretching, friction, and compression are used to target specific muscle groups.
Done before an event, it improves circulation, warms up muscles, and boosts flexibility.
After an event, this type relaxes muscles, reduces soreness, and assists in recovery.
Sports massage aids healing, reduces scar tissue, and improves range of motion during recovery.
Sports massage has a great impact on one’s physical and mental health. Not just that! It boosts mood and feeling of relaxation in the body.
In this post, we will look at 5 significant benefits that sports massage therapy offers.
Helps Relieve Pain
People suffering from chronic pain know how difficult it can be to perform everyday tasks. Not to mention the frustration and mental stress associated with it.
Sports massage therapy is beneficial in offering everyday pain relief. It releases muscle tension, optimizes tissue pliability, and triggers the release of natural painkillers in the body, also known as endorphins.
When coupled with mild exercising and physiotherapy, sports massage can work wonders. But before getting a sports massage done, it is always wise to consult with a doctor.
The professional can analyze your condition and advise whether the therapy can have side effects or not.
Enhances Overall Wellbeing
Various studies depict that regular sports massages strengthen the immune system. It notably reduces the levels of cortisol(stress hormone) and vasopressin(a hormone that plays a role in aggressive behaviour).
This means if you get a sports massage therapy, you can keep various illnesses at bay and perform great in your everyday life.
Integrating sports massage into your routine can enhance your well-being. Begin with regular sessions—whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Choose a pre-event massage to warm muscles and boost performance. After intense activities, opt for a post-event massage to ease soreness and aid recovery. Prevent injuries by proactively addressing areas prone to tightness or overuse.
In injury recovery, collaborate with a sports massage therapist for healing and improved range of motion.
Combine massage with stretching for enhanced flexibility. Stay hydrated post-massage and ensure adequate rest.
Effective communication with your therapist is crucial—conveying goals, concerns, and discomfort. Learn self-massage techniques like foam rolling for maintenance between sessions.
Listen to your body, adjusting the approach as needed. Consult a professional before incorporating sports massage if you've health conditions.
Remember, massage is part of holistic well-being; nutrition, hydration, and sleep are equally important. By integrating sports massage thoughtfully, you can enjoy improved performance, reduced injury risks, and enhanced overall well-being.
Tackles Physical Symptoms Associated With Depression
Sports massages are not just great for our muscles and soft tissues, but they have brilliant psychological effects too.
The manipulation of muscles enhances one’s mood, promotes relaxation and erases feelings of depression. As mentioned before, sports massages are linked to the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones.
The increased blood flow, production of endorphins, and relaxed sensation help alleviate sluggishness, fatigue, and muscle aches. Although the therapy doesn’t cure depression, it helps battle physical symptoms associated with it.
Improves Sleep Quality
Sports massages trigger the release of serotonin in the bloodstream, also known as the happy chemical. This hormone regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression, anxiety, sleeplessness, and irritability in general.
Since massage therapy lowers blood pressure, reduces heart rate, and increases blood circulation, it reduces anxiety and helps sleep better at night.
It also helps stay focused during the day, and have a positive outlook towards life.
Supports Good Posture
We can all become a victim to poor posture due to one reason or another -- be it our 9 to 5 desk jobs or strenuous everyday schedule.
Over time, poor posture can cause some muscles to shorten and others to elongate, increasing strain and muscle imbalance in the body.
That said, sports massages help maintain a good posture. It increases the movement of the joints and improves mobility, thereby reducing pain and counteracting the negative impact of slouching.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a teacher, dancer, student or a swimmer, sports massage can significantly improve your overall well being, help you get a better night sleep, decrease muscle tension and increase flexibility.
But when opting for the same, it is essential to look for a credible massage therapist. You can search the web for reliable professionals in your area. And if you are interested in becoming one, contact Body Aid Solutions for a sports massage course in Peterborough. Their course consists of both distance learning and practical workshops, designed to give you the flexibility to do other things whilst still learning. The tutors are well experienced and qualified to help you get started on the right foot once the course is completed.