Massage Spotlight: Sports
This week is National Massage Therapy Awareness Week and we’re highlighting some of our favorite massage styles to help you discover the best massage for your needs. Our next massage feature of the week is Sports, which is great for athletes or those who wish to maximize athletic performance and physical conditioning. Not only can a Sports massage improve your performance in physical activities, but it can also increase your range of motion and decrease your risk of injuries.
We asked our St. Pete and Tampa Sports specialists, Mare and Christopher, a few questions about Sports massage therapy to help get you ready for your next visit:
What do you love most about Sports as a form of massage therapy?
Mare:
I love that Sports massage addresses stretching. With life being so busy, we tend to forget to stretch, and by incorporating stretches as a form of massage, it can truly make a difference in flexibility!
Christopher:
I love Sports massage because I’m able to help everyone get a more active and able body to continue exercising.
“By knowing which muscles to stretch and which to strengthen, we can rebalance the muscles and correct form and posture leading to less pain and a happier life!”
What are the physical benefits of Sports as a massage specialty?
Mare:
Some physical benefits of Sports massage include muscle rebalancing, correcting posture and injury prevention.
Christopher:
Some physical benefits are increased range of motion, shortened recovery time and increased blood flow.
What should guests expect from their massage?
Mare:
Guests can expect to be active within the massage. You get to work with your therapist in the communication of how far the muscle can be stretched, and assist with draping so you are secured in the stretch and feel refreshed after. This massage lets the guest be more in control!
Christopher:
Guests should expect massage on targeted areas that they’re having difficulty or tension in, mixed with some stretching to increase flexibility within the muscles.
How can a guest prepare for their massage?
Mare:
Guests can prepare for a Sports massage simply by letting their therapist know their daily habits and routines, and which areas of the body are giving them trouble.
Christopher:
Guests should drink plenty of water before and after their massage, and avoid exercise until the next day.
What would you say to someone who has never gotten a massage?
Mare:
“The best thing about Sports for guests is it allows them to implement stretching. There’s a lot of sitting and not many opportunities to stretch in our daily lives. ”
I would say to them, "You're going to fall in love with how your body starts feeling because it's healing!" Also, that it's okay to feel unsure of what to do, so ask as many questions as you'd like. We are here to help you.
Christopher:
Muscles control or assist with every function within the body. Massage is a great way to let those muscles relax so the body can function properly and feel relaxed at the same time.
How has massage therapy changed your life?
Mare:
Massage therapy has changed my life in so many ways, emotionally as well as physically. I have become more aware of myself and how to better care for my body, and it has given me joy to provide this service to others. I am immensely grateful for massage therapy!
Christopher:
Massage therapy has changed me by allowing me to be more empathetic and deep thinking. I’m always trying to find new ways to help people and cater my massages to my guests' needs as much as I can.
This National Massage Therapy Awareness Week, take the time to listen to your body’s needs and explore our variety of massage styles.