Whether you’re training for a marathon, prepping for a local tennis tournament, or just pushing yourself harder at the gym, one question always comes up: When is the right time to get a sports massage? Before or after your event?
Both pre-event and post-event massages have specific benefits, but the best answer depends on your body, your sport, and your goals. Let’s break it down, so you know how to schedule your sports massage for maximum performance and recovery.
What Is a Sports Massage, Really?
A sports massage isn’t just a relaxing treat—it’s a strategic tool. It’s tailored specifically for athletes and active individuals to improve performance, prevent injuries, and speed up recovery.
Unlike Swedish massage, sports massage focuses on deeper layers of muscle tissue, targeting problem areas created by repetitive, intense movements. Whether you’re dealing with tight hamstrings, overworked shoulders, or a stiff lower back, sports massage addresses those issues directly.
The Case for a Pre-Event Sports Massage
Purpose: Priming Your Body for Peak Performance
A pre-event massage is typically scheduled within 24 hours before your athletic activity. The goal is to increase circulation, warm up the muscles, and mentally prepare you for competition or performance.
Benefits of Pre-Event Massage:
- Stimulates blood flow and oxygen to muscles
- Improves flexibility and joint mobility
- Reduces anxiety and nervous tension
- Helps activate underused muscles
- Addresses mild tightness before it turns into a problem
Think of it as a dynamic warm-up guided by a skilled therapist.
When It’s Most Helpful:
- The day before or morning of a big event
- If you’re feeling tight but not in pain
- Before high-stress physical exertion like a marathon or triathlon
What It Feels Like:
This massage is shorter and lighter than a deep-tissue session. It’s more stimulating than relaxing, designed to leave you feeling energized—not sleepy.
Pro tip: If you’re in town for a race or tournament, a pre-event sports massage in Carmel by the Sea can give you a physical and mental edge while you take in the coastal views.
The Case for a Post-Event Sports Massage
Purpose: Speeding Recovery and Preventing Injury
Post-event massages are best done within 6 to 48 hours after your athletic effort. At this point, your muscles are fatigued, possibly inflamed, and full of metabolic waste (like lactic acid). Massage helps flush those toxins out and jump-starts the recovery process.
Benefits of Post-Event Massage:
- Reduces muscle soreness (DOMS)
- Prevents stiffness and cramping
- Improves circulation and lymph drainage
- Helps repair microtears in muscle fibers
- Relieves mental fatigue and promotes calm
This is the recovery phase—and your body will thank you.
When It’s Most Helpful:
- After races, games, or long workouts
- During a rest or recovery day in your training cycle
- If you’re experiencing tightness or minor pain post-activity
What It Feels Like:
A post-event massage may use slower, deeper pressure, depending on your soreness level. The goal is to decompress, release, and heal.
Want to take it a step further? Many athletes visiting the coast book a post-race sports massage in Carmel by the Sea as part of a weekend recovery ritual.
So… When Should You Book It?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s a quick guide based on your situation:
| Athlete Type | When to Get a Sports Massage |
| Competitive Athlete | Before and after major events |
| Weekend Warrior | Post-activity for recovery |
| Training for an Event | Every 1-2 weeks to prevent injury |
| Dealing with Pain or Tightness | After activity, or as soon as possible |
| Visiting Carmel for a Race or Tournament | Pre-event for prep, post-event for reward |
Listening to your body is key. If you feel sluggish and tight beforehand, a pre-event massage might help you perform better. If you feel sore and stiff afterward, prioritize recovery.
Combining Both: The Best of Both Worlds
If you’re serious about your performance or training, the best move is to incorporate sports massage into your regular routine—before, after, and even between workouts.
Example Routine:
- Pre-Event Massage: 24–48 hours before race day
- Post-Event Massage: 24–48 hours after
- Maintenance Massage: Every 2–4 weeks, especially during peak training
This combination approach helps reduce the risk of injury, keeps your muscles pliable, and supports long-term performance.
What Real Clients Say
Athletes who receive sports massage in Carmel by the Sea often report:
- Less muscle soreness post-event
- Faster recovery after competitions
- Increased flexibility
- Better sleep and reduced tension
- Feeling “recharged” and ready to go again
Massage isn’t just physical—it’s a mental reset, too. After pushing your body to the limit, stepping into a quiet space with skilled hands can do wonders.
Local Tip: Get Your Massage Where the Mountains Meet the Ocean
If you’re competing or training anywhere near the Monterey Peninsula, it’s worth scheduling your sports massage in Carmel by the Sea. You’ll not only receive expert care from certified holistic health practitioners, but you’ll do so in a tranquil, inspiring environment.
Imagine this: You’ve just finished a long ride through Big Sur, or a 10K in Carmel Valley. You’re sore, sun-drenched, and satisfied—but your calves are screaming. That’s when you call a local massage studio that specializes in recovery care. You don’t just heal—you recharge.
Final Thoughts
Sports massage is not just an add-on—it’s an essential part of your training and recovery. Whether you’re looking to boost your performance, prevent injury, or simply feel better in your body, knowing when to schedule your massage can make all the difference.
If you’re preparing for an event, aim for a stimulating pre-event session to get your muscles in peak condition. Afterward, treat your body to a restorative post-event massage to reduce soreness and speed recovery.
And if you’re lucky enough to be training or competing near the coast, there’s no better place to reset than with a professional sports massage in Carmel by the Sea.
Call us directly or email us to schedule your next sports massage.
