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Why Athletes Get Massages
2/17/2015
Many women love going to day spas and even salons for massages, but few people would ever expect to see large, burly football players or tall, muscular basketball players stretched out on massage tables sighing in relief while surrounded by burning candles and relaxing music. Well, athletes may forgo the aromatherapy and the music, but they do get massages fairly often. This is because massage is actually a very important part of an athlete’s training and conditioning, especially if they’ve been injured or want to avoid major injuries.
Athletes often get massages from licensed and trained sports massage therapists before and after an event. Before they play, they may get a massage to help alleviate any tension or knots in their muscles that could become further stressed or cause problems during the game. Afterwards, they need a massage to help cool down and soothe any irritation caused by their performance. This is more than just for comfort—athletes who follow a massage regime often outperform others. It truly can make a difference in their performances.
Of course, there is a psychological benefit to a massage, too. It can help relax and clear the mind. Athletes who are very stressed over the upcoming game may find that a massage helps them get rid of that anxiety so that they can focus more on their performance. A massage can also make an athlete feel refreshed so that they hit the field or court with more energy.
By increasing the blood flow with a massage, an athlete’s body has a better range of motion and is more flexible. The muscles are ready to perform and are less likely to be damaged by the activity. Massage also helps the body release endorphins. These endorphins do more than just making an athlete feel better—they also reduce the feelings of pain and tension, helping them relax after a match.
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