There are a number of different massage forms and sports massage is a form more geared towards the athlete. It helps to prepare the athlete for physical activity and also assists in the prevention of injuries. In fact a number of athletes have attributed massage for their performances and longevity.
When a professional athlete tears a muscle or similar, it makes news. But anyone who plays sport can be injured and the most vulnerable are children and adolescents, middle-aged athletes and women. Anyone playing sports should do some stretching and warm up exercised. Its amazing how many people know they should but just don’t for various reasons. These people may be lucky and nothing happens but when it does it’s big time resulting in pain and quite some time on the sidelines.
Some tips for preventing injury are:
- avoid bending knees past 90 degrees when doing half knee bends.
- if jumping, land with your knees bent.
- Do warm-up exercises not just before vigorous exercises, but also less vigorous exercises like golf.
- Don’t overdo it.
- Do warm-up stretches before activities and give yourself a good massage as this will increase circulation as well as loosen any tight muscles.
- Cool down following vigorous sport by walking or jogging for five minutes so your pulse comes down gradually. Read the rest of this entry »