How Often Should YouGet a Massage
Here’s a guide to help you navigate how often you should get massages to maintain a high quality of life, prevent injuries, and prepare effectively for events.
General Quality of Life
For overall well-being, the frequency of massage therapy can vary based on individual needs and lifestyle factors. Here’s a general guideline:
Once a Month:
For many people, a monthly massage is sufficient to manage stress, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension. This regularity helps maintain a state of relaxation and promotes overall health.
Every Two Weeks:
Those with higher stress levels, chronic muscle tension, or specific health issues may benefit from bi-weekly massages. This frequency can help manage ongoing discomfort and prevent stress accumulation.
Injury Prevention
Preventing injuries is another crucial aspect where massage therapy can play a significant role. Athletes, active individuals, and those with physically demanding jobs should consider the following:
Pre-Event Massage
Ideally, you should schedule a massage 48 to 72 hours before a significant event or competition. This timing allows your muscles to recover from any pre-existing tension and can improve flexibility and circulation. A pre-event massage focuses on stimulating blood flow, reducing muscle stiffness, and enhancing overall performance readiness. Avoid getting a deep tissue massage immediately before the event, as it may leave your muscles sore. Instead, opt for a lighter, more invigorating massage.
Post-Event Massage:
After an intense event, a post-event massage can be incredibly beneficial. Schedule this within 24 to 48 hours post-activity to help flush out metabolic waste products from your muscles, reduce soreness, and expedite recovery. This massage should be gentle and focused on relaxation rather than deep tissue work.
For athletes, the frequency of massage therapy can be crucial in optimising performance, preventing injuries, and aiding in recovery. While individual needs can vary based on the sport, intensity of training, and personal factors, general guidelines can help determine how often athletes should consider incorporating massage into their routines.
General Recommendations:
Regular Maintenance- Every 1-2 Weeks: Many athletes benefit from receiving a massage every 1 to 2 weeks. This regular frequency helps in managing muscle tension, improving flexibility, and maintaining overall body balance. For athletes involved in high-intensity or high-frequency training, this can be crucial in preventing the buildup of tension and promoting optimal recovery.
During Peak Training Phases: Weekly or Bi-Weekly: During intense training periods or pre-competition phases, weekly or bi-weekly massages may be more beneficial. Increased training loads and competitive stress can lead to greater muscle strain and potential imbalances, making more frequent massages useful for managing these stresses.
Pre-Event Massage
48-72 Hours Before: Scheduling a massage 48 to 72 hours before a major event or competition is ideal. This timing allows the muscles to recover from any pre-existing tension and enhances flexibility and circulation. Opt for a lighter, stimulating massage rather than a deep tissue massage to avoid residual soreness.
Post-Event Massage
Within 24-48 Hours After: After an event or intensive workout, a post-event massage within 24 to 48 hours can help accelerate recovery. This massage should be gentle and focused on flushing out metabolic waste products, reducing muscle soreness, and promoting relaxation.
GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MASSAGE:
You may find that your muscles are sore the next 24 – 48 hours after a massage. Some ways that you can your body recover and get the most benefits from your massage include:
Drinking lots of water before and after your massage. Being properly hydrated assists lymphatic drainage and blood flow.
Doing a cold plunge right after your massage. This helps prevent toxins from reentering the muscles.
Practicing Yoga or stretching for an hour or more after the massage to assists the toxins to leave your body.
Using heat packs or having a warm bath with Epsom salts reduces muscle tenderness.
Get a good night of sleep.
