Athletic participation is important and there are countless benefits, such as physical activity which keeps bodies healthy. Young athletes should focus on their health for the long term, not just in the present. Not only can sports cause injuries during adolescence, but even minor injuries and overuse may be a precursor to chronic problems as an adult.

The demand for youth athletes is always rising. They are pushed to train harder, practice longer, be faster and stronger. Teams travel more and competition grows as the stress and pressure of school, a social life, etc. is ever present. Overtraining, coupled with growing and developing bodies, can lead to injury as sport intensity rises.

A sports massage therapist is trained to manipulate the soft tissue in order to specifically help prevent sports related injuries and to help improve performance. The therapist needs an understanding and knowledge of the specific sports performed in order to better help each athlete. There is a thin line between working the muscle and causing more injury and the therapist needs to efficiently and safely manipulate the muscles, making sure they do not damage any tissue.

An experienced massage therapist can also compliment any treatment you are receiving from other healthcare professionals such as chiropractors, acupuncturists, medical doctors, athletic trainers, and physical therapists.

Many athletes recognize that regular therapeutic massage should be a part of all training and regular workout routines. When athletes use massage therapy, it improves the general wear and tear and lessens injuries that naturally occur with strenuous movement. The physiological and psychological benefits of massage make it an ideal complement to a total conditioning program.

Incorporating massage therapy helps athletes to prepare, perform, and recover at their best.

The benefits of massage therapy for the athlete include:

• Reduced stress.

• Improved sleep for better performance.

• Promote an appreciation for self-care.

• Counterbalance overtraining.

• Improved coordination.

• Speed up recovery time by helping manage injuries.

• Prevent injury by identifying any muscular or postural imbalances, tightness, or areas of tension that may have led to injuries if left untreated.

• Improved blood and lymph circulation by increasing blood flow to the muscles and tissues, which allows for more nutrients and oxygen to the working muscles.

• Muscle relaxation - By addressing problem areas an athlete can restore proper muscle function.

• Massage therapy can help break down scar tissue, promoting better tissue healing and reducing the risk of chronic injuries.

• Increased Mobility - Through targeted tissue manipulation techniques, muscle fibers and connective tissue show improved tone and pliability. Improved range of motion not only helps the athlete to move more efficiently, but also reduces the risk of muscle strains and tears during physical activity. By enhancing mobility, massage allows athletes to perform their activity with greater ease, resulting in improved agility, speed, and overall athletic performance.

• Psychological effects - The demands of training and competition can be mentally taxing, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Massage therapy provides a therapeutic environment for athletes to unwind, promoting mental relaxation, and reducing stress levels. This response not only alleviates mental tension but can also have a positive impact on an athlete’s ability to focus and concentrate, leading to improved performance.

Sometimes athletes do not allow themselves adequate recovery time, especially if they are training for an upcoming event. This can lead to higher rates of injury and fatigue. Overtraining can occur when the body is not allowed to recover adequately between training.

Some signs of overtraining include:

• irritability

• apathy

• altered appetite

• increased frequency of injury

• increased resting heart rate

• insomnia

In order to maximize the benefit of massage therapy, here are some tips:

• Schedule your session for after your workout or on a rest day.

• Schedule a session before and after a tournament.

• Cool down completely after your workout before getting a massage.

• Heat up before a session (shower, sauna, steam bath, hot tub). It will give you a jump start on relaxation.

• Communicate with your massage therapist about your recent activity, injuries, or upcoming events so they can customize the session.

Be sure to inform the massage therapist about painful areas.

By including massage therapy as part of a training regimen, athletes can optimize their performance and longevity, and maintain peak performance in their respective activity and sport.