Introduction

63% of people in the UK are physically active and are into a regular exercise routine or sport. It goes without saying that a good number of these active people will have probably experienced delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) at one time or another. DOMS may occur when you:

• Begin a new exercise regimen;
• Change to a new routine; or
• Dramatically increase the intensity or duration of physical activity/exercise.

You may feel DOMS 24 to 72 hours after a workout or training. It is important, however, to have in place a post-workout routine to help alleviate pain and prevent injury. Aside from rest, hydration, and nutrition, consider adding massage after a training session. There are many types of massage and below we can consider which may be best for you with regards to where you are in your training.

For Newbies

If you have just recently started a regular exercise routine or sports training, you may want to have an aromatherapy massage. It is a full-body massage using essential oils that promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and reduce pain. It is a gentler form of massage that will help ease post-workout discomfort. A hot stone massage is another form that is suitable for beginners. This type of therapy utilises typical massage techniques with the addition of hot stones placed on particular parts of the body. Aside from pain relief, a hot stone massage can improve joint flexibility by relaxing the muscles.

For Fitness And Sports Buffs

For those who have been active for a long time, there are different massage options you can benefit from. Sports massage is a therapy that has two aims: sustaining physical health and reducing injuries. Despite the name, it may be used whether or not you are into sport. It was developed for athletes who experienced localised pain and has evolved into becoming especially beneficial to anyone with repetitive use injury, for example. The different techniques will enhance performance as well as flexibility and decrease the risk of injury. It also repairs and corrects problems.

Deep tissue massage is another treatment for anyone who works out regularly. It is not generally for relaxation but targets deep muscle tension or muscle strain. Trigger point massage aims to relieve trigger points or “knots” in soft tissue that can be painful. These knots are usually in certain regions of the body and can reduce mobility. A therapist will apply pressure on the knots or sore spots to release these. You can give yourself this type of massage by using a massage gun or your fingers and gently rubbing the painful spot with light pressure.

Other Benefits Of Massage

Massage can benefit you in other ways as well. It can improve your posture, and there is some suggestion that it can help with anxiety and depression. It contributes to a better quality of sleep. It aids in boosting immunity, and also helps blood and lymph circulation. It lowers your blood pressure and increase your range of motion (ROM).

Massage is not just for relaxation, it also contributes to your overall well-being.