Differences between sports massage and other types

Many people engaging in sports, whether professionally or recreationally, complain of injuries that require appropriate methods to restore full physical fitness. Despite such risks, it is worth ensuring a daily dose of physical activity that brings numerous health benefits, allowing for the improvement of fitness and muscle building. After intense exertion, it is important to also focus on recovery, and a good way to rejuvenate is through post-workout sports massage, a type of effective physiotherapy.

Classic massage

Classic massage is the most popular form of massage, utilizing various techniques such as stroking, kneading, rubbing, tapping, and vibration. These techniques work by applying pressure to the muscles using the hands, forearms, and elbows, with the massage therapist adjusting the pressure according to the preferences and needs of the individual being massaged.

Classic massage helps to relax tense muscles, improve blood flow, increase muscle flexibility and range of motion, and reduce pain sensations. Additionally, it has a positive effect on the well-being and emotional state, reducing stress and increasing the release of endorphins. It is particularly recommended for those looking to improve their physical and mental health.

Sports massage

In sports massage, similar techniques to those used in classic massage are employed, but the main difference lies in the greater pressure applied and the focus on specific muscles or muscle groups. The stronger pressure allows sports massage therapists to stimulate deeper tissue, increasing mobility, flexibility, and resistance to injury.

Sports massage accelerates the recovery of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, reduces muscle tension, and increases range of motion, minimizing the risk of injury and enhancing athletic performance. Therefore, it is recommended primarily for athletes and those engaging in sports recreationally.

Different types of sports massage

Sports massage is an incredibly versatile tool for supporting athletes’ preparation for physical exertion and aiding their recovery afterward. There are several types of sports massages, each with its specific application:

Pre-event sports massage

This massage is performed shortly before competitions or intense training sessions. It is a quick and intense procedure aimed at warming up ligaments, muscles, and joints, preparing them for increased physical exertion. Typically done about 4 minutes before warm-up, it is an integral part of pre-exercise preparation.

Training sports massage

This type of massage is recommended before every planned intensive training session to improve the body’s fitness and endurance. Lasting usually from 30 to 60 minutes, it focuses on intense rubbing and kneading of the main muscle groups that will be exerted during training. This helps maintain the athlete’s readiness for competition and minimizes the risk of injury.

Maintenance sports massage

This type of massage aims to maintain high physical fitness between competitions, preventing decreases in performance by up to several tens of percent. It helps maintain muscle flexibility, increase range of motion and body fitness, and also protects against the risk of injury. It typically lasts about 45 minutes and is performed daily or every other day.

Regenerative massage (post-exercise)

This type of massage, also known as restorative massage, is performed after training or sports competitions to accelerate muscle recovery and prevent painful muscle stiffness. It is also an effective way to improve blood circulation, strengthen the nervous system, and speed up metabolism. It is considered three times more effective than other forms of relaxation.

Which massage to choose – classic or sports?

If you’re experiencing back, head, or any other body pain as a result of illness or prolonged work in one position, the best solution for you will be a classic massage. However, if your goal is to quickly return to form and peak physical performance, opt for a sports massage.

If you’re seeking relaxation and relief from tense muscles after a period of excessive stress, a classic massage is the right choice. On the other hand, if you aim to improve muscle efficiency and speed up recovery, a sports massage performed before, after, or during physical activity will be spot on.

Both classic and sports massages offer numerous benefits for the body. The key is an individual approach to the patient and their issues. A physiotherapist can enrich the massage with additional elements, such as Chinese cupping, which further stimulates the muscle-fascial tissue, bringing faster and better treatment results.

Differences between sports massage and other types of massages