Sports/Deep Tissue Massage

Sports Massage: Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery

Sports massage is a specialised form of massage therapy aimed at athletes and active individuals. It focuses on the prevention and treatment of sports-related injuries and the enhancement of athletic performance. Here’s an in-depth look at what sports massage involves:

1. Objectives of Sports Massage

Injury Prevention

- Reducing muscle tension and stiffness

- Improving flexibility and range of motion

- Enhancing circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues

Performance Enhancement

- Preparing muscles for peak performance

- Improving muscle tone and balance

- Reducing muscle fatigue and soreness

Injury Treatment and Recovery

- Accelerating the healing process

- Reducing inflammation and swelling

- Minimising scar tissue formation

2. Techniques Used in Sports Massage

Effleurage

- Light, gliding strokes to warm up the muscles and improve circulation.

Petrissage

- Kneading and squeezing muscles to release tension and promote relaxation.

Friction

- Deep, circular movements to break down adhesions and scar tissue.

Tapotement

- Rhythmic tapping and pounding to stimulate muscle fibres and improve muscle tone.

Vibration and Shaking

- Rapid shaking or vibrating movements to relax muscles and increase blood flow.

Stretching

- Assisted stretching techniques to improve flexibility and range of motion.

3. Types of Sports Massage

Pre-Event Massage

- Given shortly before a competition or physical activity

- Focuses on warming up muscles, increasing flexibility, and reducing muscle tension

- Typically involves light, brisk movements to energise the body

Post-Event Massage

- Provided after physical activity to help with recovery

- Aims to reduce muscle soreness, stiffness, and inflammation

- Involves slower, gentler strokes to calm

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Maintenance Massage

- maintaining muscle health and flexibility

- sustain tissue strength 

- injury prevention