What You Should Know Before Getting a Sports Massage
Sports and similar physical activities are immensely tiring. Cramps and aches are a part and parcel of playing sports. They are common in a sports person’s life. Often such issues hamper other necessary physical activities like training sessions as they take a lot of time to heal. But, with regular sport massage, cramps and aches can be dealt with. If you are a sports freak, then regular sports massage can help you recover from any muscle cramps and aching limbs.But, before you go ahead, here are a few things you need to know before getting a sports massage.
Learn About the Different Types of Massage
If you are thinking of getting a sports massage, then you should be specific about which one will suit you the best. Different types of sports or physical activities involve different parts of the body. So, it is essential to figure out which type of massage will be beneficial for you. For instance, Swedish massage focuses on moisturizing the skin or a hot stone massage has a calming effect, but none of them have anything to do with releasing tight muscles. So, you must be very careful about the type of you sign up for. Consulting a massage therapist may help you choose the right one.
Schedule Your Massage Appointment Wisely
If you are new to massage, you must never book your first appointment a day before your sports event. For instance, if you are supposed to participate in a race tomorrow, then scheduling an appointment today may not be a good idea. As you are new to massage, you’ll need time to deal with its after effects. In certain types of massage you may need time to rest and relax to let the healing effects of the massage do the job.. You must always schedule a massage appointment a week before or after the sports event. Getting a massage therapy 48 hours priors to the big day will not allow your body to perform efficiently.
Treat Yourself With a Massage After Intense Physical Activity
Your body needs relaxation after intense workout sessions. A massage helps soothe the body muscles and helps your body to recover faster. If you are a veteran, you can schedule a massage appointment before or after 48 hours of the physical activity. But, if you are a newbie, you must wait for 3 to 4 days after your performance for a massage session. Sportsmen, who are new to massage may not be able to experience the benefit from massage if done immediately after the event, instead you will end up feeling uncomfortable.
Inquire About Your Therapist Before Booking an Appointment
Before scheduling a massage, you must always inquire appropriately about the massage therapist. You must ask them questions about their work experience, education, licenses, and frequency of working with sportspeople. Also, you must seek referrals. This helps you know about the experience of other people with the massage therapist. Gathering all this information will help you make an informed choice.
Sip Adequate Water Before Getting a Massage
You must be well hydrated before you hop on the massage table. Insufficient water content may make your body feel dehydrated and that may lead to the stiffening of your muscles. Undergoing a massage in such a condition may not help your muscles to relax, rather it will intensify muscle soreness. So, you need to make sure that you have enough water before a massage session to help your body enjoy the benefits of massage therapy.
Need a sports massage? Consult InHome Physical Therapy and Massage today.
