Sports Massage

What is Sports Massage?

Sports massage is specifically designed for athletes and active individuals to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and speed up recovery from physical activity. It combines various techniques tailored to the demands of your sport or exercise routine.

Whether you're a professional athlete, weekend warrior, or fitness enthusiast, sports massage can be an essential part of your training program.

Types of Sports Massage

• Pre-event massage - Short, stimulating treatment 15-45 minutes before activity to warm up muscles, increase circulation, and prepare the body for peak performance
• Post-event massage - Gentle treatment within 24-72 hours after activity to reduce muscle soreness, promote recovery, and flush metabolic waste
• Maintenance massage - Regular treatment during training to maintain flexibility, address minor issues, and prevent injury buildup
• Rehabilitation massage - Targeted treatment for sports injuries to support healing and restore function

Benefits for Athletes

• Improved flexibility and range of motion - Essential for optimal athletic performance
• Faster muscle recovery - Reduces downtime between training sessions
• Reduced risk of injury - Addresses muscle imbalances and tension before they become problems
• Enhanced athletic performance - Muscles work more efficiently when properly maintained
• Relief from DOMS - Reduces delayed onset muscle soreness after intense exercise
• Improved circulation - Better nutrient delivery and waste removal
• Mental preparation - Helps athletes focus and feel confident before competition
• Scar tissue breakdown - Prevents adhesions from limiting movement

Techniques Used

Sports massage therapists use a variety of techniques based on your specific needs:

• Deep tissue massage - Reaches deep muscle layers to release chronic tension
• Trigger point therapy - Releases tight spots that cause pain and limit movement
• Myofascial release - Stretches the connective tissue surrounding muscles
• Stretching techniques - Active and passive stretching to improve flexibility
• Cross-fibre friction - Breaks down adhesions and scar tissue
• Compression - Increases blood flow and warms muscles

Who Benefits from Sports Massage?

• Professional and elite athletes
• Amateur and recreational athletes
• Runners, cyclists, and swimmers
• Team sport players (football, netball, basketball, etc.)
• Gym enthusiasts and CrossFit participants
• Anyone with an active lifestyle
• People recovering from sports injuries

When to Get Sports Massage

• During training: Weekly or fortnightly maintenance sessions
• Before events: 1-2 days before competition for preparation
• After events: Within 24-72 hours for recovery
• When injured: As part of rehabilitation program
• During off-season: Address chronic issues and prepare for next season