If you work out regularly but only occasionally get a massage, you may be doing your body and your workouts a disservice.
If you work out four or more times a week,
it is recommended you consider frequent deep tissue massage. If not, your
muscles may be tight and your workouts could suffer.
What is deep tissue massage?
Deep
tissue massage is a massage technique commonly thought of as one way to
help address musculoskeletal issues, like strains and sports injuries. By
applying slow, sustained pressure via methodical deep strokes, a massage
therapist targets areas of the inner layers of muscles and connective tissues.
What are the benefits?
Unlike other massage techniques that focus
on relaxation, deep tissue massage focuses muscle aches and pains and has
been known to address stiffness. It has also been known to help recipients
unwind mentally.
Who’s it for?
Deep tissue massage is ideal for people who
engage in highly physical activities, like running, or those who have an injury
or more than your average run of the mill aches and pains. Speak with your
massage therapist for more insight.
Your massage therapist may use fingertips,
knuckles, hands,
elbows, and forearms during a deep tissue massage. Breathe deeply to keep
oxygen flowing as the massage therapist works on more tense areas of concern.
The top five benefits of deep tissue
massage:
Better workouts
Relaxed, less-stressed muscles can offer an
increase
in range of motion during your workouts. Your body can attempt to build
muscle and burn calories more efficiently.
Relaxed state of mind
Deep Tissue Massage has been known to help
lower levels of certain hormones, including those tied to stress, while at the
same time benefitting your ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters like dopamine,
serotonin and endorphins.
Better sleep
Not only will regular massage help you feel
good, it can also help promote
better rest.
Addresses pain
Deep tissue massage can help work out the
knots from stressed, overworked muscles and connective tissue as well as
address joint and muscle aches and pains.
Helps Improve health
In addition to benefiting muscle and tissue
health, deep tissue massage can positively support your overall health by
potentially helping relive some of that discomfort.
Post-massage pointers:
Hydration keeps muscle tissue healthy and
easier to massage. Be sure to drink plenty of water beforehand. Like any form
of exercise, massage can be some-what dehydrating so be sure to drink plenty of
water even
after your massage.
Don’t work out or engage in strenuous
activity too soon after your deep tissue massage. The benefits will likely last
much longer if you give your muscles an opportunity to recover.
Deep tissue massage can be taxing on your
muscles, plus, you’ll be burning calories while your muscles are moving during
your massage. It is recommended to rest at least 12 hours before your next
workout.
After the massage, it’s common to feel some
stiffness or soreness. It should subside within a day or so. Speak with your massage
therapist if you have concerns or if you feel any discomfort during or after
your massage
session.
Drinking water after any massage can help flush metabolic waste from your tissues. Remember to speak to your doctor before trying deep tissue massage if you have any concerns or an underlying medical condition.