17/02/2024
Pre-event massage:- Should you have a massage before an event? Absolutely! But this comes with conditions. When used as part of your regular training plan with a therapist that you have worked with before, it can be really beneficial in getting your body ready for the event. However, if you have not had sports massage before, or are using a new massage therapist, then a massage a day or so before a race may not be ideal. Ensure you have tried out your new therapist at least a couple of times in the few weeks leading up to the event, and most importantly, let them know if you are about to do an event, and they will tailor their treatment to suit. Deep massage can cause some muscle soreness the following day or two, and you certainly don't want to be feeling sore before your run, so swapping out the really deep stuff for something more appropriate is desirable.
Occasionally, massage therapists are available at the actual event to give treatments immediately before your run, and these treatments can be great at getting your muscles warm and ready to work. Massages given at this point are usually only about 10 minutes long and tend to be fast and vigorous, although, importantly, not deep. This can really help with your warm-up routine, but please be aware it is not a substitute for a proper warm up.
As with every other part of your training routine, sports massage /soft tissue therapy should be factored in with thought and planning to ensure the best results.
Good luck with your event!
