What is Pre-event Sports massage?
Pre-event Sports massage prepares the body for activity, by maximizing blood flow to the muscles that an athlete will use most in competition.
When is the best time to have Pre-event Sports Massage?
A pre-event sports massage typically happens between 10 to 60 minutes before an event to prepare an athlete’s body for activity.
Why have Pre-event Sports massage?
The theory behind this is that when blood flow to the muscles is at its best, it takes longer for a muscle group to fatigue and makes recovery after competition easier.
What does Pre-event Sports massage involve?
Pre-event Sports massage uses lighter strokes than usual to loosen soft tissue and reduce adhesion by:
- Gliding or effleurage
- Broad cross-fiber friction
- Soft tissue release
Pre-event Sports massage DOES NOT include any deep tissue work as this could make a modification that throws off the athlete’s game.
How long will the treatment take?
Pre-event Sports massage is typically short, lasting between a few minutes to 15 minutes. The duration usually depends on how many muscle groups must be worked on.
What is Post event Sports massage?
A post-event massage is designed to aid recovery from the activity. it will reduce post-exercise soreness and re-establish range of motion and blood flow to tight muscles through myofascial release and lymphatic drainage .
The Sports massage includes these techniques:
- Effleurage
- Kneading
- Rolling
- Soft tissue release
When is a good time to have Post-event Sports massage?
Once the athlete has warmed down and has hydrated Post-event Sports massage can be administered, usually 10 to 15 minutes after the event.
Please note: It will not involve the whole body, just the areas more deeply affected by the sport, and it should not be used if there has been an injury causing inflammation.