Whether you’re here on vacation or you’re lucky enough to call Colorado home, no doubt you love playing in the Rocky Mountains. We all love mountains for their size and splendor, but let’s face it — a day of hiking, biking, or skiing can leave us hurting.
What’s the best way to recover so you can get back to doing what you love best? A sports massage is the key to loosening tight muscles and getting you ready for your favorite activities again.
But exactly what is a sports massage? What makes it different than other types of massage? And where should you go for the best sports massage in Avon or Glenwood Springs?
Keep reading to find out!
What Is Sports Massage?
More than just relaxation, sports massage is a type of therapeutic massage. Your therapist will use a combination of techniques to treat aches, pains, and injuries within the body’s soft tissues.
This might include:
- long strokes
- deep kneading
- trigger point therapy
- tapping or tapotement
- myofascial release
- cross-fiber friction
- active and passing stretching
While most massages focus on full-body relaxation, sports massage tends to focus on specific areas of your body. For example, cyclists and skiers need extra work on their legs, hips, and glutes. Meanwhile, climbers and kayakers may need more attention on their arms, shoulders, and upper back.
Before your session begins, you’ll have the chance to chat with your therapist and explain where you have sore muscles or recent injuries. That way, they’ll be able to tailor the massage to your body’s specific needs.
What Are the Benefits of Sports Massage?
Like all types of massage, you can expect to feel relaxed, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Beyond these generic benefits, though, what else will you experience?
For one thing, you’ll notice a major decrease in muscle stiffness and soreness. Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is the reason you feel so stiff and achy after a hard day on the mountain. Massage helps to naturally flush out lactic acid and other waste products that build up in your soft tissues.
You can also say goodbye to stiff, tired joints. Depending on your needs, your therapist will use active or passive stretching techniques to loosen your hips, knees, ankles, and shoulders. You’ll notice a marked improvement in your range of motion and you’ll be less prone to injury.
Bonus: You’re sure to sleep better after your massage too, which will also aid in the recovery process. This is especially crucial if you’re struggling with altitude sickness or jetlag!
Simply Massage: Play Harder, Recover Faster
You shouldn’t have to skip a day on the mountain because of sore, tired muscles.
A sports massage is just what the doctor ordered. It will loosen those tight muscles and invigorate your body, mind, and spirit. When you get off the table, you’ll feel like a million bucks — and ready to tackle your favorite sports again!
With two convenient locations in Avon and Glenwood Springs, you’re never far from a great “sports massage near me.” Give us a call at 970-748-1600 or use our online booking form to schedule your next massage today.