WHY A SPORTS MASSAGE SHOULD FEATURE IN YOUR SCHEDULE

WHY A SPORTS MASSAGE SHOULD FEATURE IN YOUR SCHEDULE

WHY A SPORTS MASSAGE SHOULD FEATURE IN YOUR SCHEDULE

It’s true. Sports massage and cycling go together like coffee and cycling. Ever since humans started racing bicycles over long distances, leg rubs were used to give the cyclists some relief and a boost. Here’s how a regular sports massage can benefit your cycling performance.

It seems like a bit of a luxury. And yes, it is. A regular massage in your training and recovery schedule can be vital for your progress, especially if you are committed and serious about achieving a personal cycling performance goal.

Ultra-endurance racing and stage racing in particular require long hours in the saddle, which don’t only fatigue your legs, but your whole body. And, quite often, your mind. A sports massage doesn’t always need to include deep muscle focus. It can also be a more gentle session that delivers important stimulation to your body and speed up recovery. Here’s a solid list of benefits:

Muscular System 

  • Relieves tightness, spasms and restrictions in muscle tissue. 
  • Increases flexibility in the muscles as it promotes relaxation. 
  • Increases blood circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the muscle which reduces muscle fatigue and soreness. 
  • Promotes the removal of waste products from the muscle. 

Skeletal System 

  • Increases joint mobility by releasing restrictions in the fascia, and by reducing the thickening of the connective tissue. 
  • Helps to decrease muscular inflammation, break down scar tissue and free adhesions. 
  • Improves muscle tone and helps to address issues relating to muscular imbalance, reducing the physical stress placed on joints and bones. 

Nervous System 

  • Stimulates sensory receptors, which can either stimulate or soothe the nerves depending on the techniques utilised. 
  • Promotes relaxation and stress reduction by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. 
  • Helps to reduce pain by the release of endorphins which are known to elevate the mood. 

Psychological System 

  • Helps to promote feelings of well-being and enhance self-esteem. 
  • Helps to reduce levels of stress and anxiety by relaxing both the body and mind. 

When should you have a sports massage?

It’s best to have your first sports massage when you are not close to a big event or goal race. Everyone responds differently to sports massage and you want to determine how your body responds before committing to a schedule.

Once you have become accustomed to a sports massage, you can consider scheduling as follows: 

Pre-race: A deep massage can do you wonders, but not closer than four days before your goal race. A light massage right up until the day before can aid in circulation in the muscles.

Post-race: As soon as possible after your big race, or hardest training session as an over-use problem is likely to tighten up within 48 hours. This massage is normally lighter, gentler and works on flushing out waste toxins by again aiding circulation, reducing D.O.M.S (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) and aiding recovery. Wait until at least five days after your big race before you schedule a deep massage.

Maintenance: Maintenance sports massages are highly recommended to anyone participating in moderate to intense exercise on a regular basis. When to schedule regular massages is different from one person to the next and how regular depends on how much you are training, intensity, history of previous injury, cost and your availability. 

Did you know that Flex Sports Massage is located inside Lynnwood Cyclery? Find out more or book via this link: https://www.flexsportsmassage.co.za