BALANCED HEALTH 
Wellness Center

What is Athletic Massage Therapy?

Athletic Massage Therapy is a specialized form of bodywork designed to meet the unique demands of athletes and highly active individuals. Far beyond a standard relaxation massage, it is an integral component of any serious training regimen.

Our therapists are experts in sports physiology and kinesiology. We don't just treat muscles; we support your entire athletic journey—helping you train harder, recover faster, and perform at your peak while significantly reducing the risk of injury.

Key Benefits Section
 

Why Your Training Regimen Needs Athletic Massage

• Enhance Performance: Improve flexibility, range of motion, and muscle efficiency for better power output and agility.

• Injury Prevention: Identify and address minor strains and imbalances before they become major setbacks.

• Accelerate Recovery: Reduce muscle soreness (DOMS) and flush metabolic waste like lactic acid to get you back to training faster.

• Improve Flexibility & Range of Motion: Break down adhesions and scar tissue through targeted deep tissue and myofascial techniques.

• Mental Focus: Reduce physical stress and tension, leading to improved mental clarity and competitive focus.

Our Athletic Massage Techniques Section

We utilize a range of evidence-based techniques tailored to your sport and goals:

• Deep Tissue Massage: Targets chronic muscle tension and the deep layers of soft tissue to break down adhesions.

• Myofascial Release: Addresses restrictions in the connective tissue (fascia) that can limit mobility and cause pain.

• Passive & Active Stretching: Integrated stretching to improve flexibility and restore optimal muscle length.

• Trigger Point Therapy: Applies focused pressure to specific "knots" to relieve referred pain patterns.

• Pre-Event Massage: A stimulating, invigorating session to prepare the body for optimal performance.

• Post-Event Massage: A restorative, flushing session to aid recovery and reduce inflammation after competition.

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Designed for All Levels of Activity

While essential for competitive athletes, our athletic massage services are highly effective for anyone with an active lifestyle:

• Competitive Athletes (Amateur & Professional)

• Weekend Warriors & Gym Enthusiasts

• CrossFit, HIIT, and Weightlifting Athletes

• Endurance Athletes (Runners, Cyclists, Triathletes)

• Team Sports Players (Soccer, Basketball, Hockey)

• Yoga & Pilates Practitioners looking to deepen their practice
   

What to Expect 

Your Personalized Athletic Support Plan

1. Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with a discussion of your training, goals, and any areas of concern, including movement analysis.

2. Targeted Treatment: Your therapist will use a combination of techniques focused on your specific muscle groups and performance needs.

3. Integrated Advice: Receive personalized guidance on stretching, hydration, and self-care techniques to maintain your results.

4. Ongoing Support: We work with you to create a maintenance schedule that aligns with your training and competition calendar.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is athletic massage different from a regular deep tissue massage?
A: While both may use deep pressure, athletic massage is specifically applied with an understanding of sports biomechanics and is integrated into a training cycle (pre-, post-, and maintenance), not just for general relaxation or pain relief.

Q: When should I schedule a massage relative to my event/game?
A:

• Pre-Event: 1-2 days before for stimulation, not deep work.

• Post-Event: 24-48 hours after to aid recovery.

• Maintenance: During training cycles, typically once every 1-4 weeks depending on intensity.

Q: Will I be sore after a session?
A: Some mild soreness is possible, similar to a good workout, as we work deeply on conditioned tissues. This is normal and should subside within 24-48 hours. Hydration is key to minimizing this.

Q: Do I need to be injured to benefit?
A: Absolutely not! In fact, the greatest benefit of athletic massage is its role in preventing injury and maintaining peak physical condition.