The Benefits of Sports Massage - A Look at The Physical and Mental Advantages

What Is Sports Massage

It is the application of basic and treatment oriented massage techniques for athletes with the purpose of enhancing the athlete's preparation or recovery from the physical demands of training and competition.

The golden rule is "DO NO HARM". Inappropriate techniques may have a negative effect on both the athlete's physical and mental performance.

Generally the techniques are broader and less intrusive than clinical work.

Benefits of Sports Massage

The benefits may include:

• Consistency in training

• Reduction in strain and discomfort from training

• Reduction from muscle and tendon tightness

"Physiological" Effects - May Assist In:

• Improved fluid circulation

• Muscular relaxation /stimulation

• Separation of muscle from connective tissue

"Psychological" Effects:

• Encourage relaxation and readiness

• Reduce anxiety and competition stress

• Increase alertness and mental clarity

"Performance" - Related Effects - May:

• Increase energy

• Increase range of motion at joints

• Develop faster recovery post training

3 Main Categories

There are about seven to eight stages of application for this type of massage. The following are the three most common:

1) Pre-Event Performance:

This massage has primarily a stimulating effect. Generally this type of massage is performed without oil. It takes place within an hour before an event. It is done as part of the warm up process for the athlete.

2) Inter-Event:

This type of massage occurs in between same day events. This type of sports massage occurs with and without oil. The objective here is to help with the cool down process post event and stimulate for the next competition or event.

3) Post Event Cool Down:

The major focus of this treatment is drainage. It is a relaxing massage. It should be done without creating any pain.

The depth of the strokes is light to moderate. The strokes are rhythmical and broad. Generally this massage should not last longer than twenty minutes. The areas of the body to be treated will depend on the athlete's needs.

Certification

In Canada in order to be recognized as sports massage therapist you must go through a certification process. This in general includes putting time in at sporting events collecting "field" hours as well as hours in a clinical setting.

Although many schools have sports out-reaches as part of their curriculum it is important to take a recognized course through the Canadian Sports Massage Therapists Association with a certified sports massage therapist.

The opportunity to participate with professional sports teams, winter and summer Olympians, national sports teams and high level amateur sports teams increases significantly if you have your certification.

To get more specific information you can go to the CSMTA website.

Equine Massage

This massage has recently gained some popularity in the world of sports massage.

Equine sports therapy can address issues in a horse such as:

• Inhibited motion

• Shortening of stride

• Stiffness

• Showing signs of resistance

Be aware of YouTube videos claiming to be Sports Massage, but are actually treatments or rehab for sports injuries. There are several of the out there. Check out the link in the resources box for an actual pre-event demo.

Mike Grafstein SMT(C) Certified Sports Massage Therapist