I get asked about sports massage a lot. What does it actually involve? How will it help me? And when should I book one if I’m training for an event?

Whether it’s marathon season or you’ve set your sights on cycling from John o’ Groats to Land’s End, getting ready for a big event means looking after your body, not just your training plan. Injury prevention matters just as much as mileage.

What Is Sports Massage?

You might hear it called sports massage, remedial massage, or deep tissue massage — different names, similar goal. It’s a hands-on treatment aimed at:

  • Relieving muscle tension and spasm
  • Improving blood flow and circulation
  • Speeding up muscle recovery
  • Breaking down scar tissue and improving flexibility
  • Promoting relaxation

How Sports Massage Helps Your Training

Used well, sports massage does two jobs: it helps prevent injury before an event, and speeds up recovery after one. It improves circulation, breaks down old scar tissue, and can flag areas of tension you haven’t noticed yet — the kind that often turn into injuries if left unchecked.

As a runner myself, massage is part of my own training routine, which is exactly why I understand its benefits before and after an event. Post-event massage in particular has been shown to reduce the onset of muscle soreness. If you’re training for something, proper preparation — including recovery — is what keeps you out of the physio’s chair.

When to Book a Sports Massage Before an Event

Timing matters. A few things worth knowing:

  1. Avoid training for 24–48 hours after a massage. While some sports teams use massage right before competing to boost performance, that’s usually for athletes used to regular treatment. And if sports massage is new to you, don’t book one directly before your event. It could affect performance rather than improve it
  2. If you’re not having regular massages, aim for one, one to two weeks before your event instead

Book Your Sports Massage

My evening clinic runs every Wednesday from 5pm. Book your sports massage appointment, and I’ll see you then.

Kiri Gilbert