I have recently had a few new clients wanting sports massage but unsure as to whether it is right for them or if they are able to ”withstand the pain” so I just wanted to write a little bit about who and what it is best for and what to expect .. which may surprise some people!

WHAT IS SPORTS MASSAGE?

It is a form of massage that manipulates the soft tissue. This includes skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. A sports massage is designed to correct soft tissues that have been injured by repetitive or strenuous physical activity or trauma. It can also be highly effective before and after exercise to help performance, aid recovery and prevent injury.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM SPORTS MASSAGE?

Anyone is the answer. You do not need to be a sportsperson to benefit from this style of massage. It can be used to help those with repetitive strain injuries, trauma from an injury such as a sprain or muscle tear .. not necessarily from playing sports. Of course it is great for anyone that participates regularly in any physical activity to help loosen the muscles, ease tension and aid recovery.

DOES IT HURT?

I would be lying if I said it was completely pain free but and it is a big but, it should not hurt for the sake of it. It should not be so painful that you tense up in order to bear it, in fact I personally will only work to your tolerance. You to a certain extent will be in control of the level of pressure that you can withstand. I want you to be as relaxed as possible. If there are particular areas, such as shoulders, or techniques I need to use such as trigger point work, that is uncomfortable I always let you know and will start gradually.

Sadly I have had people in that are afraid because they have had a bad experience. Hopefully when you leave me the sports massage will be a positive experience.

Feel free to get in touch with me for a chat if you are still unsure if it is for you or just take the plunge and book in. You wont regret it!!

Sally