Riding your elliptical machines, running on your treadmill, or cycling on your exercise bike can take some toll on your body when done day in and day out. That is one reason we know the importance of stretching after your workouts, as stated in this article here, to help warm up your muscles to prevent any strain or cramping.
Yet stretching may not always be enough for your strained muscles, massage has also been shown to benefit those who exercise regularly. Massages are not just a thing of luxury to relax and relieve stress, although they are very luxurious, they may also actually be necessary.
According to this article from PhysicalArts.com, “research shows that massage can also have a positive effect on your muscle-building capabilities and fitness level.” Sounds pretty crazy right?! Massage helping to increase your muscle-building capabilities and increase your fitness level. Well you better believe it. There are numerous benefits for massage in terms of fitness and they include:
Improve Circulation and Increase Blood Flow. This increase in blood flow and improved circulation is going to increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your working tissues. This increase flow helps your muscles to build. After a muscle is exercise, it needs this oxygen and vital nutrients in order to increase in size. Massages help to maximize the supply of nutrients and oxygen, helping the body and muscles to build and repair themselves after you exercise.
Help Prevent Injuries to Your Muscles, Tendons, and Ligaments. Massages have a relaxing effect on your muscles and help to loosen them up after exercising. Even after stretching your muscles may still be a little tight, this is where massage comes in to help relieve any lingering tightness. Massage helps stretch the connective tissue, this improves circulation to help prevent or break down any adhesions.
Improve Flexibility. Massage helps to improve your range of motion at your joints, thus improving your flexibility. This results in increased power and performance. Improving your flexibility can also help to decrease risks of injury in the future.
Reduce Muscle Recovery Time. Massages can help shorten your recovery time between workouts by aiding in the removal of waste products. By increasing circulation you are thus increasing the elimination of toxic debris, such as lactic and carbonic acid, from building up in your muscles after exercise.
Massages can be a vital necessity to part of your fitness regimen. Getting a massage can be just as important as regular workouts and proper nutrition for your overall fitness program. They no longer are looked at as only a luxury.
Written By: Jentry
