What is sports massage, or Sportif?
A sports (or remedial massage) is a manual intervention for alleviating pain and tension which is typically built up due to acute or chronic injury, or poor healing. This sort of tension might restrict your mobility, creating weakness or overcompensation in other muscle groups. Contrary to its name, a sports massage is not exclusively a massage for sports enthusiasts, it is also a great tool for those who are more sedentary and experiencing aches and pains as a result of periods of immobility, like desk-working or long term physical disabilities.
When incorporated into a robust training or rehabilitation programme, a massage for sports or recovery, can be a useful tool in reducing the risk of reoccurring injury and improving overall performance and wellbeing.
What's Involved?
A sports massage therapist utilises a range of techniques to break down adhesions (knots) with medium to firm pressure on affected areas. Specific strokes used in a sports massage encourage blood circulation, heat, friction and oxygen to the affected area, increasing mobility, eliminating toxins and decreasing inflammation. As a result of a sports massage, some people experience residual soreness and in some cases even bruising in the days following a sports massage treatment. It is important you follow the advice of your therapist and should symptoms persist with no sign of improvement, seek the advice of your general health practitioner.
Is it for me?
Expect a medium to firm pressure during your Sportif sports massage. There may be moments of discomfort, but they should never surpass a threshold you are uncomfortable with. It is important that you participate in the sports massage through active movement and verbal communication with your massage therapist.
It can sometimes take multiple sessions before results are seen. It’s important to be realistic in your expectations of what can be achieved, particularly if you’re not consistently working through your rehabilitation programme away from the studio. Ultimately, we only hope to see you better manage your pain or other symptoms of tension, if it’s not possible to completely eradicate it. If you are currently pregnant please refer to our Origins pregnancy massage page for further details of what may be suitable for you. If you are currently trying for a baby, you must be 100% certain that at the time of making your booking you are not pregnant.
Ivano is great; a friendly and experienced massage therapist. My body feels so much better. Thank you.
Shoo Kee C - March 2023
SPORTS MASSAGE FAQs
How much pressure will be used?
Similarly to that of our deep tissue massage, you can expect a medium to firm pressure with our sports massage. Any levels of discomfort you may experience should be within a threshold you're comfortable with, so it is important to let your therapist know if it becomes too much. Do not grit your teeth and 'firm it' as this can cause muscles to tense up even further rendering them inaccessible.
Can I return to my normal activities?
You can, however it's important to consider particularly if you are an athlete (professional or amateur) or an active individual, your immediate performance may not be as good as you're used to. Please ensure you follow the aftercare advice of your sports massage therapist to reduce any downtime and aid in your recovery.
How often should I get a sports massage?
In collaboration with your sports massage therapist, you will jointly agree to a treatment plan dependent on your existing rehabilitation programme, levels of pain/discomfort, and your current lifestyle and commitments. This individualised care package is customised to your needs and will indicate how often you need to return to our studio for a sports massage.
Do you use oil during the massage?
Generally speaking, no. We tend to use a special wax during massage for sports and remedial therapy. However, if you're sensitive/allergic to essential oils or beeswax, please include this information on your health consultation form. If you prefer a vegan alternative was used, again please inform your therapist at the start of your appointment.
How will I feel after my sports massage?
Hopefully, you should feel your mobility is improved and less restricted, however it's likely you may feel a little sore in places and a somewhat lethargic.
Can I claim a sports massage on my health policy?
We have an increasing number of clients using policies from providers such as MediCash. We always advise you to contact them prior to booking with us. Visit our Insured page to learn more about bodywork via policies as they apply to a massage for sports.
When preparing for your Sports massage in London, be sure to stay well hydrated, and wear loose fitting clothing. Running shorts are a great choice, in particular for work around the hamstrings and glutes. Ensure you've detailed all your concerns in the health consultation form so you and your sports massage therapist can devise an adequate treatment plan.
You may experience some residual soreness, which is perfectly normal. To aid in the healing process, it is important you continue to stay well hydrated, get optimal sleep and use interventions such as ice or heat compression to aid your recovery. Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can also be used if they are suitable for you.