Sports Massage is basically
applying the principles of bodywork and massage to athletes. What
makes it different is that athletes have very special needs. Knowing
the person
and the sport is what will make your treatment of greater value.
This is a short, specific
treatment given immediately before ( 30 minutes- 24 hours before) and event.
The goal of treatment is to increase the circulation, flexibility
and mental clarity of the client to improve performance. It
does not replace the athletes warm up but complements it.
It is important to know your clients sport or activity and what muscles
are used the most. It is also necessary to assess the athlete's condition
and needs prior to treatment. Factors such as temperature, nervousness,
fatigue, hyperactivity are considered before giving a treatment.
If the client is cold more warming things need to be done. If they
are already warmed up, focus on flexibility. If they are nervous
some soothing strokes may be called for.
The amount and depth of treatment
is the most important key to effective treatment. Deep tissue work
is contraindicated as it may cause too much of an increase in flexibility
and it may interfere with the clients timing and strength.
Keep the goal in mind at all times.
Use brisk invigorating
variations of sport massage strokes to specific muscles as per sport
Create long lasting hyperemia
Use gymnastics, stretching,
PNF if athlete has used them before.
Begin light and gradually increase
pressure and speed
Energize or calm down as needed
Do Not comment on tightness
at this point-it may be too negative and depressing
If an athlete is unprepared
or injured or tight to the point of causing an injury, bring this up with
caution
Consider the time remaining
before and event. If it is 30 minutes, give a really short (5-10
minute) treatment. If it is the day before, a little longer treatment
is ok.
Be aware of how much a client
has had massage previously to an event. It will determine how their body
will react to the treatment.
In endurance sports, concentrate
on overall energy and flexibility.
In strength related sports,
concentrate on the
specific muscles used.
Do Not Treat Stress points/Triggerpoints:
Use only 24 hours before competition and only if the athlete is used to
having such a treatment before and event.
