UltraSports

Massage Therapy, Inc.

Question: I've had a (sports) massage before but didn't like it.  I know I need a massage, what can I do?

You probably have been to a doctor or other health care provider with whom you had a bad experience.  As with any other professional service provider, there are some great ones and some not-so-great ones.  Remember, 50% of the M.D.’s graduated in the bottom half of their class.  Ask around, a personal recommendation from a friend is a good way to find a talented massage therapist.  Don’t be afraid to interview a prospective therapist over the phone.  Ask the therapist for references; ask about his or her training and experience.  Most qualified therapists are eager to tell you about their qualifications. 

Question: What do I wear (or not wear) during the massage? 

Your personal comfort during a massage is the highest priority.  Remove only the clothing that you are comfortable removing.  You will be fully draped during the massage, and only the area that is being worked on will be uncovered.  I prefer that my clients wear running shorts and the women a bikini top or sports bra.  You'll be allowed privacy to change before and after the massage.

Question: When should I schedule my first and subsequent massages? 

You should schedule your first massage today, of course.  Subsequent massages should be scheduled depending on your training schedule. Deep tissue work should not be scheduled within 2 or 3 days of a quality workout.  That means you should not have a deep massage the day before your long run or before your track workout.  The day after either of these workouts would be ideal.  (See “How will I feel...” below.)

Question: How frequently do I need a massage? 

In large part, it depends on your current financial situation.  It also depends on your particular goals and your training schedule.  If you are really working hard with two or three hard workouts per week or trying to set a new PR, I would recommend one or two per week.  If you are interested in simply finishing the marathon, you are probably not stressing your body as much, so for you, maybe every other week would be fine up to the marathon.  If your budget can’t afford the extra $, then once a month will have to suffice.

Question: How will I feel during and after my first sports massage?

Sports massage therapy attempts to release adhesions between muscle tissues and to increase circulation to ischemic areas.  The particular therapist and the type of massage that is used, will determine the level of discomfort that you may experience during the massage.  Be sure to give the therapist feedback on painful areas.  These areas may need special care or attention so as to not cause undue soreness.  A good therapist will work the tissue in layers, gradually increasing the pressure as the outer layers relax.  Subsequent sessions should be less intense, as your muscles have adjusted to the pressure and the conditions causing the tenderness are no longer present.  As the tissue becomes healthier, you will be able to appreciate deeper massage.   Some people have reported feeling slightly nauseous immediately after the massage, possibly because of the release of metabolic wastes and toxins into the blood stream and the lymph system.  Others feel deeply relaxed, while others have reported feeling “beat up”.  Typically, a day after your first session, you may be a little sore.  This should pass after 1 or 2 days leaving you feeling much looser and relaxed. Maintaining a high level of hydration after the massage helps to reduce post massage soreness.