Getting a massage after running something as intense as the London Marathon can do wonders for your body and recovery.
Here are the main benefits:
đŠ” 1. Speeds Up Muscle Recovery
Marathon running causes microtears in your muscle fibres â this is a normal response to harder exercise and is the way our body strengthens. Massage increases blood flow, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues, speeding up healing.
đ§ 2. Reduces Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) often hits a day or two after the race. A post-race massage can help reduce the severity and duration of that soreness by loosening tight muscles and flushing out lactic acid. No more walking like a duck!
đ§ 3. Improves Circulation and Lymphatic Drainage
Massage helps move blood and lymph fluid through the body, which can reduce inflammation, swelling, and the buildup of metabolic waste.
đ 4. Relieves Tension and Mental Fatigue
Running 26.2 miles is physically and mentally exhausting. Massage promotes relaxation, reduces cortisol levels (stress hormone), and can give you a much-needed sense of calm.
đ 5. Promotes Better Sleep
Recovery sleep is essential after a marathon. A relaxing massage can help you unwind and sleep more deeply, aiding overall recovery.
â ïž A Few Tips:
- Timing matters: A light massage within a few hours post-marathon is great for flushing out waste and promoting circulation. Deeper tissue work is best a few days later, once initial soreness settles.
- Hydrate after: Drink plenty of water post-massage to help flush out toxins and reduce soreness.
Do you know someone running a marathon or half marathon either for themselves or a charity? Why not be the best friend ever and buy them a gift voucher for a massage â or maybe youâve been the valiant self-sacrificing supporter and need a massage yourself! Have a Hot stones massage, truly unforgettable relaxing experience.
or
