Sports massages tend to get mixed reviews, which may cause fears and doubts among many people. Essentially, a good session of sports massage therapy is a type of deep-tissue massage, which aims to improve the flexibility and suppleness of muscles and joints. This is done by eliminating toxins embedded in muscle fibres and increasing blood circulation.
While some of the basic techniques used may be similar to a therapeutic massage, the therapist may apply them more firmly and deeply. Before you embark on sports massage therapy, it is important to do some research and determine what is best for your body. To help you have the most beneficial experience, we will share key things you need to consider before a sports massage.
4 Key Things To Know Before You Book A Sports Massage
Choose The Right Sports Massage Therapist
It is important to pick a sports massage therapist, who has plenty of experience and makes you feel comfortable. If you are looking to book an appointment for sports massage in Bristol, check out Ben Tolson Sports Massage. A deep tissue massage delivered by a fully-qualified practitioner can help you restore mobility, relieve pain, and promote relaxation.
Moreover, you do not need to be an athlete or a sports performer to benefit from sports massage therapy. This treatment is also used to relieve a variety of day-to-day problems, such as sprains, tension, and fatigue. If you book a sports massage session, you will receive support to address the issue quickly and achieve long-lasting results.
Prepare For Your First Session
Typically, your massage therapist will ask you some questions before your first session. For example, you may need to talk about your expectations. The goal is to alleviate pain and reduce stress levels by relieving muscle tension.
Along with other strategies to prevent unintentional injuries, a sports massage can help you stay healthy and safe. Also, you should not expect a relaxing massage, as a sports massage is very different to a spa treatment. It will normally involve movement, mobilisation, resistance exercises, and other activities. Stretching may also be included, which means you can gradually increase your flexibility.
Ensure You Are Well-Hydrated
You will need to arrive to your appointment well-hydrated for optimum results. Dehydration can stiffen the muscles and fascia, which may lead to a more painful massage. Therefore, it is crucial to drink plenty of water prior to your sports massage.
Develop good hydration habits and do not believe the myth that you will be well-hydrated after your session, as this is incorrect. A hydrated body will make your muscles easier to work with. Also, make sure that you keep your pre-appointment meal light to help your digestive process.
Find Out What To Expect After
Following your sports massage appointment at a reputable facility like this one offering sports massage Jacksonville FL, it’s quite normal to experience some muscle soreness. In fact, this soreness might highlight specific areas of weakness that require additional attention. Rest assured, this discomfort is a sign that your muscles are responding to the therapy. Within 48 hours, your soreness should ease, so it’s crucial to provide your body with the necessary rest to aid in its recovery.
Do not schedule a post-massage workout as it is best to wait until at least the next day. Instead, it will be beneficial to take a bath to help the cleansing process and reduce tightness. To improve your performance or general health, consider incorporating sports massage into your training plan.
Conclusion
Sports massage can be a great way to relieve sore muscles, improve flexibility, and prevent injury. However, before booking your first session, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind. First, make sure you choose a qualified and experienced sports massage therapist who understands your specific needs and goals. It’s also important to prepare for your first session by wearing comfortable clothing and bringing any relevant medical information.
Staying hydrated before and after your session can also help maximise the benefits of your massage. Finally, be sure to ask your therapist about what to expect after your session and any post-massage care that may be recommended. By following these tips, you can make the most of your sports massage experience and achieve optimal results.
