Updated July 2019
The frequency of which you get massage depends on how often and hard you train for running. However, getting a weekly, or at least monthly, massage can help any runner prevent injuries. Massage will help keep your muscles loose, which is one of the best ways to prevent the most common of running injuries.
Deep tissue massages can help with the recovery process after a long run by stimulating the circulatory system. However, you should never get a deep tissue massage the day of or the day after a marathon or long run. Because of the muscular damage and inflammation caused from the long distance running, it is best to let your body heal first. Booking a massage for 3-5 days after a long distance run will result in the quickest recovery.
Regional Director of the nonprofit Let Me Run and running coach, Mary Connolly, recommends including massage as a key aspect of a marathon training program.
“Anyone who is training for the marathon should go to a massage therapist. When you’re budgeting for your shoes and other gear, save room in the budget for a massage.”
Elite runners or those who require more recovery can consider seeing a massage therapist weekly.
“For someone who is in training and post-training, once a week would be incredible. I recommended to all of my clients that they budget for a massage once a month. It’s so important – we always sing the praises of foam rolling and self-massage, but getting a licensed massage therapist, who can work the muscles in the right way, is ideal.”
For more on marathon recovery read about The Top Benefits of Massage after Marathon Training.
Sandy Saldano, Lic. Massage Therapist
Owner of Therapeutic Kneads, Ltd.
847-266- 0131