Exercising gets the endorphins goingβyou know you'll feel good after your session. Stretching can help alleviate soreness and pain but there may be another option to consider after you exercise, like getting a massage. A massage after a workout not only feels good but, like taking a dip in an ice plunge bath , can benefit the body. A massage post-workout can alleviate soreness by aiding circulation, help with flexibility, and reduce pain and inflammation.
This can be achieved in various ways, from professional massages to sitting in a massage chair. Receiving a massage from a professional massage therapist may not always be possible, nor may there be sufficient time for a long one.
The good news is, even a short massage can provide benefits for the body. For that, a home or portable massage table can be useful. Some heating pads even include a massage function. Massage can also minimize the effect of delayed onset muscle soreness DOMS. Delayed onset muscle soreness DOMS is when a person notices muscle stiffness or pain a day or two after their workout. One study showed that massage may be effective in decreasing delayed onset muscle soreness DOMS and aiding in muscle performance.
There are many types of massage that can be considered for post-workout recovery. Here are several options to keep on deck, as well as some to avoid. This is a type of massage that originates from Japan. Self-massage is when you perform a massage on yourself. You can do compression and squeezing techniques to release toxins and then do a series of light stretches with long holds.
Vibrating foam rollers have the added benefit of vibration therapy which can help reduce pain and improve muscle strength. You can also try massaging in a pain relief cream to help alleviate muscle soreness in targeted areas. Massage guns are gadgets used for self-massage and relieving muscle soreness but can be intense with quick pulsing on your muscles.
