Giving a Good Sports Therapy Massage

Sports therapy massage is generally used for athletes to stay healthy and perform at their optimal level. It not only prevents injury but also eases stress and increase flexibility. Primarily it is used to release the tension built up in the muscles, expand and extend muscle and alleviate aches and pains. A proper knowledge of human anatomy and massage techniques is necessary before attempting sports therapy massage.

Sports Therapy Massage: Before

If you are giving a quick massage to an athlete just before a sporting event, your motive is to prepare him for performance both mentally and physically. Depending on the athlete's mood, you will need to help him or her calm down or get psyched up and ready to perform.

If the athlete is needed to calm down, try Swedish massage techniques--long, slow strokes--for relaxation. Aromatherapy in conjunction with your massage would be great add-on, consider bringing lavender or cedar-scented candles or incense into the massage room.

In case quick energy is needed, massage the athlete with short, vigorous strokes. Mint or citrus scents will compliment the effects of an energizing sports therapy massage.

Deep tissue massage should be avoided as it might throw off the athlete's timing and balance. If a sport event is impending, massaging should be avoided.

Sports Therapy Massage: After

A good massage helps clearing the body of toxins and return to its normal state after the sport. It is still better to asses the athlete's body before starting with the massage. A few questions about any areas which are particularly sore, how does he feel etc. if the athlete shows signs or symptoms of injury, shock, or heat exhaustion it is advisable to see a doctor.

The after performance sport massage should mainly involve smooth, gliding strokes (effleurage) and gentle squeezing and kneading (petrissage) will catalyses drainage of waste products.

Sports Therapy Massage: Maintenance

A regular sports therapy massage is the priority in to-do list for athletes. This helps them to stay in the best possible condition and deliver best performances. The maintenance massage works on broadening and elongating the muscles, promoting relaxation, and flushes out built up toxins. The maintenance sports therapy massage consists primarily of deep tissue work.

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