Exploring the Extensive Benefits of Massage Therapy for Runners

Now that we are entering into the cold season, runners across the UK are sweating up to pursue their aim of winning prizes and achieving the laurels that come with crossing the finish line. For instance, there's the Run Tatton 10k & Half Marathon in Cheshire, Kirkstall Abbey Trail Running Festival in Leeds and Marden Half Marathon in Marden.In these events, we will witness the arrival of runners who will use up a lot of strength and endurance. This can affect the body in various ways. Thus, the need for muscle recovery. Runners who integrate massage and spa day into their warm up will have a lower chance of getting injured, sore or fatigued during or after the race. With massage, you can improve your mental health and flexibility, so you can put in your best effort in reaching the finish line.

HOW DOES MASSAGE BENEFIT RUNNERS?

Running can contribute to muscular tightness. This means pains in your joints, which can hinder movement. It can also lead to circulation problems, particularly in the feet, knees or thighs.As you run, there are series of motions in your muscle and then there is a release of chemicals like lactic acid and endorphins. This helps to deliver the energy required to keep a faster pace.Now, when muscles get strained to work more than required, you may experience DOMS, which means Delayed Onset Muscular Soreness. This causes a tight sensation many persons feel after fitness routine.With massage or spa day, you can lower the soreness sensation and boost circulation. This is important because it allows blood rich in oxygen to be supplied to the tissues in your muscles, particularly when they are strained.During massage, the trained professional will apply long strokes to relieve the muscles. This is also effective in easing tension and improving movement.

A RUNNER’S PERSPECTIVE

Mike, a client of mine, is a passionate runner and a key advocate for integrating massage spas into an athlete's fitness activity. Read about his experience in the spa:"As soon as I ventured into the massage spa, I had the feeling I would enjoy the entire experienceI received a hospitable greeting from the therapist in the entrance. He was so well-behaved and friendly. The entire studio looked and felt relaxed and neat. It was as if I was on a vacation retreat in the city center"As a passionate athlete, I prefer getting massage frequently because of the strenuous nature of my daily routine. I discussed this with my therapist and he paid attention to and answered my questions, explaining how he would concentrate on areas I mentioned.This is the sixth month and I can tell you that I have experienced an improvement in the way my hip, back and legs feel after racing. The massage is now an essential part of my athletic performance and the relief I feel in my muscles after each session is what I love forward to."

Ideally, when you're getting ready for an athletic event, we recommend you add massage to your training activities 2-4 days before or after the D-day.You should aim to relive the tension in your muscles and lessen the discomfort and pain you feel.Research has shown that massage therappy is highly effective as a preventive therapy rather than curative.Thus, if you are injured, get in touch with your doctor before getting a massage.