Running has become a really popular activity over the past couple of decades, with tracks around Melbourne like The Tan and Princes Park becoming as busy as peak hour traffic. As a result we have seen an increase in running related injuries and muscular imbalances at Melbourne Natural Therapies, a number of which we believe could have been prevented.
The Strain On Your Body | Massage For Runners
Running is a really intense activity that requires sustained, repetitive muscle activity to produce speed, power and endurance. Over time this can lead to excessively tight muscles, reduced range of motion / strength and decreased circulation to the tissues. Massage helps to release the tension in muscles, restore range of motion / strength and improve circulation.
Research from the Buck Institute for Research on Aging at McMaster University in Ontario showed that massage can be effective at reducing inflammation and promoting mitochondria, the energy-producing units in the cells. As a result massage can help pain relief by reducing excess swelling and inflammation and rebuilding muscles and encouraging their recovery. Not only does massage feel good post exercise, it’s actually good for you!
Research suggests that occasional massage is good, but a regular massage program for athletes is more effective. Like exercise, the benefits of massage are cumulative, meaning the more regularly you see a remedial massage therapist, the more effective the treatment will be. At Melbourne Natural Therapies we recommend runners doing between 20kms and 30kms a week should have a remedial massage once a month, and anyone doing over 30kms a week should have massage fortnightly.
Here are some key benefits of massage for runners:
- Enhanced Recovery: Massage helps increase blood flow to the muscles, which can accelerate the healing process and reduce muscle soreness after a run.
- Reduced Muscle Tension: Regular massage can help alleviate muscle tightness and knots, which might develop from the repetitive motion of running.
- Improved Flexibility: By loosening tight muscles and tendons, massage can help improve overall flexibility and strength.
- Injury Prevention: Massage can help identify and address potential issues before they become more serious problems. It can also improve the alignment and balance of the muscles and joints.
- Stress Relief: Running can be both physically and mentally taxing. A massage provides relaxation and stress relief, which can contribute to better overall well-being and performance.
- Enhanced Performance: By keeping muscles in good condition and preventing injuries, massage can contribute to better performance and more effective training sessions.
- Assists venous blood flow: Massage helps in returning deoxygenated blood back to the heart and removing waste products.
If you would like to book in for a remedial massage consultation or would just like to have a chat feel free to give us a call.
Melbourne Combined Natural Therapies
Remedial Massage | Myotherapy
03 9645 9923
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