2 Types of Massage Best for Sore Muscles

Have you recently begun a new work out regimen or started training for an event such as a marathon or triathlon? If yes, congratulations! By now you are probably quite familiar with the feeling of sore and tight muscles. As your training continues, you are going to want to consider ways to soothe your muscles so your body can more efficiently and safely continue to stick to your routine. Massage offers wonderful benefits for work out enthusiasts. There are many different styles of massage; it's not all beaches and cabana boys when it comes to massage therapy for sore muscles. There is deep tissue massage as well as sports massage, and both have wonderful benefits if you are experiencing workout pains. But which one is for you?

Both deep tissue massage and sports massage are commonly used interchangeably, however, there are differences to these therapies. Depending on your level of training and the experience you are hoping to have, you will want to be educated as to what to expect from each type of massage. Generally, deep tissue massage is best for sore muscles from working out, whereas sports massage is geared toward athletes specifically to help prevent injuries.

For those who have begun working out as a New Year's resolution and you are battling sore muscles, a deep tissue massage is for you. Deep tissue massage therapy works into the deep layers of muscle and fascia where we start to feel "knots". Not only do deep tissue massages relieve muscle soreness, but this type of massage therapy also helps to release stress and tension in the body. Deep tissue massage increases the body's production of serotonin which gives us those feelings of happiness. Other benefits of this type of massage include break up of scar tissue, reduced chronic pain, increased blood flow and overall healing. Deep tissue massage is more passive than sports massage in that the massage therapist will move your body around as needed to get the muscle from a different angle so minimal work is done on your part.

Anyone who has signed up for a marathon, kudos to you! A sports massage is going to be your best bet to assist in your intense training. Sports massage therapy is best for athletes because it helps to prevent injury and loss of muscle mobility before and after your big event. As with most massage styles, you will also notice a feeling of reduced anxiety, which can be very helpful before the big race day. Sports massage utilizes more vigorous techniques to facilitate muscle healing and relaxation usually right before the event and then again after. Other great benefits for athletes with sports massage include detoxifying and cleansing the body of impurities, increased circulation in the body, and increased awareness of the important mind-body connection. A huge part of success for athletes comes from a psychological approach, and less anxiety and stress will lead to improved race times. Sports massage is more active than deep tissue massage and you will probably find yourself doing a mix of stretching and engaging muscles through your treatment in order to deliver the best results.

Once you have identified which type of massage is best for you, you will want to research licensed massage therapists near you. It is important that you are comfortable in your surroundings as the point of massage is to promote a healing and relaxing environment.