Sports massage - an introduction

Most of us believe that sport massage is reserved only for the athletes. However, this is not completely true. Sport massage was originally developed to prevent and heal injuries in athletes and to prepare their bodies for excellent performance. On the other hand, sports massage is just a type of Swedish massage, which is the classic massage we all know about. Sports massage is used to stimulate the circulation of blood, exchange of the lymph fluids and removal of metabolic waste from the body. Many people can enjoy the benefits of sports massage since it is very good for people with injuries, those suffering from chronic pain or restricted range of motion.

Most of the people today are actively taking part in sports or some other type of physical activity. The goal of their training is not always competitiveness, since most of them enjoy being physically active for various different reasons such as weight loss, maintaining the good shape, preventing diseases, etc. At the same time, the demand for sports massage is growing since it may aid to recovery from various injuries and enhance the individual’s performance. Sports massage can help to enhance the sports kill, strength, stamina, suppleness and speed, since it regulates the imbalances in soft tissues caused by the body’s gradual and controlled overuse. Sports massage is therefore, great in preventing injuries, since it increases the individual’s flexibility and prepares the body for unusual postures and unexpected tackles.

The greatest benefit of sports massage is that it helps athletes and other physically active people to prevent injuries, which are typically caused by overuse of muscles. Sports massage can release the muscular tension and restore the upset balance of the musculoskeletal system. Sports massage can also bring a substantial pain relief, which is very beneficial for patients with musculoskeletal sports injuries. Sports massage is a great way to remove the tension from the back, which sometimes results from a sedentary lifestyle or working long hours in front of the computer. It prevents fibrosis or scaring of the tissue, and improves the flow of lymph. Massage reduces blood pressure and heart rate and significantly decreases anxiety. Sports massage, especially if it is accompanied with stretching, can help against spasms in the muscles. It also improves the immune system and overall quality of life in people suffering from chronic diseases. If it is combined with aromatherapy massage, using sweet almond oil, lavender oil, cypress oil, or sweet marjoram oil, it is very relaxing, soothing and promotes good sleep.