Sports massage is designed around physical activity. It combines techniques such as deep tissue, stretching and trigger-point work to prepare the body for sport, aid recovery and manage training load.
It targets the muscles most used in your activity. A pre-event massage is lighter and invigorating, while a post-event or maintenance massage goes deeper to release tightness and speed recovery.
Firm and purposeful. The therapist may move your joints through their range and work areas that feel tender. It can be uncomfortable during deep sections but should feel better afterwards.
Sports massage is not the same as physiotherapy. For a new or serious injury, see a physiotherapist first — sports massage works best alongside proper assessment.