Massage Benefits for Runners
As we head into cooler weather, Tampa Bay’s running season is heating up with a lineup of exciting races including Gasparilla Distance Classic, St. Anthony’s Triathlon, and Skyway 10K! Runners of all ages will push themselves to the edge and train towards their distance goals, whether it’s their first fun run or adding another marathon to their accomplishments. Countless hours of strength and endurance training can put a lot of strain on the body, making muscle recovery a huge priority. Runners who incorporate massage therapy into their training are less likely to experience injury and feel burned out during their fitness routines. Massage for runners helps keep your body balanced, so you can conquer the many miles ahead.
HOW MASSAGE HELPS RUNNERS
Running can cause the body to develop tight muscles, a loss in the range of motion of your joints, and decreased circulation to compressed tissues. When we run, our bodies engage our muscles and produce chemicals, such as endorphins and lactic acid, to provide the sustainable energy we need to keep us running faster, for longer. When our muscles work harder than they are used to, we develop DOMS, Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, which results in the stiff and jelly-like feelings most people experience after exercise.
Massage is a great way to reduce the intensity of muscle soreness and promote circulation. Good circulation is critical to get the oxygen-enriched blood our muscle tissue needs, especially when we’re using those muscles repeatedly. The use of long, deep strokes during a massage can help elongate muscles while also relieving tension and increasing an individual's range of motion. These massage benefits for muscles are cumulative. You won’t see results after one massage before a big race. It is the result of repetitive and regular sessions that promote a healthy training routine.
A RUNNER’S PERSPECTIVE
One of our guests, Sonja, is an avid runner and a major proponent for incorporating massage into a runner’s training routine. Here’s what she had to say about her experience with Massage Studio:
“From the moment I walked into Massage Studio in St. Pete I knew I was going to enjoy my experience.
I was instantly greeted by Kayla in the lobby. She was very pleasant and attentive. I was impressed by the cleanliness and how tranquil the Massage Studio felt. It was hard to believe this was located on the corner of a busy intersection in St. Pete as it felt like you walked into a hidden oasis.
Being an avid runner, I try to get regular massages due to the wear and tear I put it through. When I first met with my massage therapist Otis, we talked about my running, the surgery I have had on my foot and how much I run. Otis took the time to listen to all my concerns and how they would focus on the trouble areas we discussed. From the moment he started the massage and used the CBD oil I could feel a difference in how my hips and legs did not feel as tight as they had before. I felt the biggest difference the next day when I went out for a long run. The combination of the CBD Oil and the attention to detail was just what I needed to keep my running performance right on track. I would highly recommend Massage Studio for any runner!”
INCORPORATING MASSAGE INTO YOUR TRAINING
All runners require a different form of training and recovery when preparing for a big race. It’s important to remember your running goals and limitations may look different than other seasoned runners, and that’s okay. Athletic massage therapy can be completely personalized to your running goals and needs. Whether you suffered a previous injury, or have a specific performance concern, your massage therapist will work with you to build a treatment that is personalized to you.
If you are currently preparing for a big race, a good rule of thumb when incorporating an athletic massage into your training schedule, is to schedule a treatment 3-5 days before or after the big race. The goal is to treat your muscles when they no longer feel sore, to decrease tension and discomfort. Massage therapy is best used as a form of prevention, than it is for improving an injury that has already happened. If you have experienced an injury, consult with your doctor prior to scheduling a massage.
RUN TOWARDS RELAXATION
As muscle experts and massage pros, we know what it takes to get you to the big race. We look forward to enhancing your training routine and working together to put your best foot forward. If you’re interested in adding massage therapy into your routine, we are here to help!
Happy running season!