How Remedial Massage Supports Recovery and Performance for Runners…
Whether you’re training for your next half marathon or enjoy a regular jog around the block, running can take a toll on your body. Tight calves, sore hips, a tweak in your knee and general stiffness are all too common among runners. While stretching and foam rolling help, they don’t always get deep enough to resolve what’s going on underneath… That’s where remedial massage can help.
Remedial massage is a targeted treatment designed to assess and address the muscular imbalances, tightness and soft tissue restrictions that affect your performance and recovery. Unlike relaxation massage, it’s more focused with the aim of treating the root cause of dysfunction, not just the symptoms.
Running is a repetitive, high impact activity. Even with good form, small imbalances can lead to strain over time. Here’s how remedial massage can help runners specifically:
Speeds Up Recovery
Massage helps increase blood flow to tired, overworked muscles. This improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, while assisting in the removal of metabolic waste like lactic acid, helping you recover quicker and reduce DOMs.
Releases Muscle Tension and Prevents Overuse Injuries
Tight calves, quads, hamstrings and glutes are common in runners and can lead to altered mechanics or overcompensation in other areas. Remedial massage targets these tight spots to restore balance and reduce the risk of injuries.
Improves Range of Motion
Restricted movement in hips, knees and ankles affect stride efficiency. By releasing tight fascia and restoring joint mobility, massage can help improve your running form and reduce energy wastage.
Supports Active Recovery on Rest Days
When you’re not running, your body is repairing and rebuilding. Massage is a great way to stay proactive during rest days by easing soreness, calming the nervous system, and mentally resetting before your next run.
Helps You Tune Into Your Body
When we run, we can ‘push through’ discomfort and sometimes ignore early warning signs or fatigue/strain on our bodies. Regular routine remedial massage helps you stay in tune with how your body is feeling, so you can spot problem areas before they turn into injuries.
Running is as much about recovery as it is about the miles you put in. While strength training, mobility work, and proper footwear all play their part, remedial massage offers a great layer of support that addresses the deeper imbalances and stress your body takes on with every stride.
Whether you’re chasing a new PB or simply want to keep enjoying your runs pain free, incorporating regular remedial massage into your training routine can make a noticeable difference in how you move, recover, and perform.
If you’re a runner looking to stay strong, and ready for the road ahead, booking in for your remedial massage could be the smartest move (pun intended) you take!