Sports massage is beneficial for athletes to alleviate muscle tension, stress, and lactic acid build-up in soft tissue.
Remaining residue in soft tissue is usually caused from lack of proper stretching after exercise or repetitive motion. Without manual manipulation that flushes out this lactic acid the athlete is more susceptible to prolonged soreness and future minor injuries. Also, lesions and restrictive movement is more likely. Sports massage can reverse these set-backs. Also, it helps prevent future injuries and maintain the athlete for peak performance. Other benefits of sports massage are reducing the heart rate and blood pressure. Usually it increases circulation and lymph flow. This helps drain out the toxins to purge out soreness and pain.
Since every sport involves different sets of muscles, sports massage caters to individual specific needs.
For instance, Carmel and Monterey Co. is a haven for golfers. Consequently, Carmel Massage
therapists end up massaging professional and amateur golfers. Typically, golfers come in with similar aches and pains. Why is this? It’s because golf is an asymmetrical sport. Just think… to play 18 holes the golfer has to swing in the same direction at least 65 times! Most golfers warm up by hitting more balls even before the game. This repetitive rotating and forceful torque on the upper body tends to cause an imbalance in muscles. Whenever one set of muscles are contracted the opposing muscles are over stretched. Many golfers backs hurt because the muscles from their lower back down to the knees are contracted. It’s the therapist’s job to identify and elongate the contracted muscles. Often times the muscles that hurt are not the contracted ones. Because we massage golfers foreshortened muscles, they often feel their muscular symmetry restored. For those who are interested, we show them helpful stretches to counter balance the effects of playing golf. Of course, the best way to play golf successfully is to keep the body limber and strong!
Marathon runners help maintain peak performance with sports massage. Obviously, they benefit from calf, leg and hip work. People come from all over the world to compete in the Big Sir Marathon. Carmel massage helps them maintain their edge. These are just a few examples of how sports massage can help people in athletics. You don’t even need to be athletic. Maybe you’re just sore from pulling weeds in the garden, riding a bike, horseback riding, or surfing. Whatever your activity may be a sports massage is recommended.
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Each massage type offers unique benefits: Couple’s Massage promotes relaxation and bonding; Neuro-Muscular Therapy relieves chronic pain; Hot Stone Massage soothes muscles with heat; Prenatal/Postnatal Massage reduces pregnancy-related discomfort; Thai Massage increases flexibility and energy flow; Structural Integration improves posture; Sports Massage enhances athletic recovery; Reflexology targets pressure points for overall wellness; Deep Tissue Massage alleviates chronic tension, and Aromatherapy Massage combines essential oils for relaxation.
If you want relaxation, try Hot Stone or Aromatherapy Massage. For muscle pain or tension, Deep Tissue or Neuro-Muscular Therapy may work best. Thai Massage is excellent for flexibility, while Sports Massage helps with athletic recovery. Prenatal Massage is designed specifically for pregnancy-related care.
Most are safe, but considerations apply for certain health conditions such as pregnancy, injuries, or chronic illnesses. Always inform your therapist of any medical concerns to ensure a safe and effective session.
Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals beforehand, and arrive early to discuss your goals with your therapist. For Thai Massage, wear comfortable, stretchy clothing as it involves active stretching.
The frequency depends on your needs. Relaxation-focused massages like Aromatherapy or Couple’s Massage can be done monthly. Therapeutic massages, such as Sports or Structural Integration, might be needed weekly or bi-weekly for best results.
The experience varies: Thai Massage involves assisted stretches, Hot Stone uses heated stones, and Reflexology focuses on feet and hands. Your therapist will tailor the session to your preferences and goals, ensuring comfort throughout.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, avoid intense physical activity for a few hours, and rest if needed. For deeper treatments like Deep Tissue Massage, using ice or heat can help alleviate soreness.
Yes, many therapists can customize a session by integrating techniques from multiple styles, such as combining Deep Tissue and Aromatherapy for targeted relief and relaxation. Discuss your preferences with your therapist.
