I have set up my massage table at more than one marathon or Tri-Athalon in Florida. When athletes push them selves to the limit, their muscles can be overloaded with lactic acid and other toxins. The benefits of stretching, and then recieving a massage directly after these types of events are well known. The Livestrong Foundation has a post that talks about the benefits:
“Soreness Prevention
Sports massage therapy can prevent or relieve delayed onset muscle soreness. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, delayed soreness typically begins to develop 12 to 24 hours after the exercise has been performed. DOMS may produce the greatest pain between 24 and 72 hours after the exercise has been performed. Sports massage therapy prevents delayed onset muscle soreness by encouraging blood and lymph flow throughout the body, preventing muscle fatigue.
Stress and Pain Reduction
Sports massage therapy can help a person manage stress. When a person receives a sports massage, their body releases neurotransmitters called endorphins. According to American Spa, endorphins are released by two centers of the brain known as the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, and they act as the body’s natural pain reliever. Endorphins that are released due to receiving a sports massage help to decrease anxiety, provide pain relief, improve mood and enhance a person’s state of well-being.”
Val Boonstra
