Sports massage is more than firm pressure. The best sports recovery sessions blend five distinct techniques.
1. Trigger Point Release
Sustained pressure on tight knots ("trigger points") until they relax. Most effective in glutes, traps, and IT-band attachments.
2. Active Stretching
The therapist moves your limbs through their range of motion while you relax — opens up the hip flexors, hamstrings, and shoulders.
3. Cross-Fiber Friction
Strokes applied perpendicular to muscle fibers. Increases circulation in scar tissue and adhesions.
4. Compression
Broad, rhythmic pumping of large muscle groups. Pushes blood and lymph through, accelerating recovery between training days.
5. Effleurage Flush
Long, draining strokes toward the heart at the end of the session. Closes the recovery loop.
Find a sports-recovery specialist on our therapist directory or browse all cities we cover.