Spa and Professional Massage for Athletes – A Basic Guide
Website design By BotEap.comThere was a time when massage was considered a luxury for the few. Nowadays, everyone looks for the neighborhood spa, especially professional athletes and trainers. A massage is not only considered useful but essential to keep the body in shape and at the highest level of performance. Surveys and studies have shown over and over again that massage can have very positive effects on the functioning of the body. Athletes can be treated better and rehabilitation can be speeded up.
Website design By BotEap.comThe positive aspects of body massage are not limited to the professional athlete; they can be taken advantage of by anyone practicing a regular exercise regimen. Better performance, prevention of minor injuries, decreased pain, more focus, and reduced recovery time are some of the benefits of soft tissue therapy. The following sections provide an essential guide to massage for any athlete or fitness enthusiast.
Website design By BotEap.comThe anatomical benefits of a massage
Website design By BotEap.comWhen the body is massaged two things happen. First of all, the pressure of the masseur’s hand and the movement of it results in a mechanical response in the body. Second, a reflex action occurs because the nerve endings are stimulated. The two responses combine to create an effect on the body’s cardiovascular system that leads to the following benefits:
- The blood vessels dilate, which increases blood circulation and promotes efficiency.
- The flow to the heart is increased with repeated manual massage resulting in a higher level of oxygen in the body. The tissues have better access to nutrients and the body easily eliminates waste products and toxins.
- The heart rate decreases, which leads to a release of tension and a calmer body.
- Soreness is eliminated from the muscles and tension is eradicated, leading to faster recovery in athletes.
- Muscles have more range of motion due to increased flexibility.
- The previous two are combined to strengthen the performance of the individual in competitions and games by building muscles.
- Sport massage: Depending on the type of game the athlete plays; sports therapies may differ. Most of them are done at very high speed and include a lot of stretching. The approach to massage can also vary depending on when it is implemented. A pre-workout massage would primarily include stretches that warm up the muscles. A therapy performed after a game would be focused on increasing elasticity and reducing pain.
- Deep Tissue Therapies: This is used when certain sections of the body are causing problems. For example, when the knee muscles start to ache from constant activity, strong pressure on the muscles and surrounding tissue can help resolve the problem. These types of massages occasionally leave the person sore because they are designed to remove knots. Eradicating tension and pain from the muscles requires a lot of pressure.
- They are not just for solving problems; they can also be used for preventive measures.
- The result of therapies can be short-lived, hence the need for a regular massage schedule