Did you know:
Whilst running, the amount of force loaded through each knee can range from anywhere between 4-8 times your own body weight.
FOR EVERY STEP TAKEN!….
The time of year has come around again, for those entering into this Years “Potters ‘Arf” Marathon event training is undoubtedly (or should be) now underway. Preparing the body for this endurance race is no mean feat, particularly those aiming to compete with last years winning time of 1 hour 7 minutes and 17 seconds
For the more common competitor or those entering for the first time, simply crossing the finishing line should be equally applauded.
Training cycles leading up to the race simply aim to progressively push the body to new limits, to force physical changes or rather “physiological adaptations” that will allow the body to deal with the demands of the event. In order to obtain the most benefit from training, the body needs to recover effectively between training sessions/cycles, this is where Sports Massage can be quite a handy tool.
Where can we help?
Both immediately prior to or post event sports massage has its benefits, mainly through increasing blood flow, eliciting neurological effects, with some evidence suggesting its benefits towards lymphatic drainage etc.
But, incorporating Sports massage into long term training programmes prior to such an event is where it can be most effective. Such manual therapy techniques can help reduce muscle tension, soreness, aches, as well as enabling early identification of any potential problematic areas that need addressing, BEFORE they cause injury and ultimately pain. All of the above allow for efficient recovery between training, leading to successful ‘niggle free’ preparation in the run up to the event! It’s a Win-Win scenario.
…and before it enters the mind, this type of massage isn’t just for those high level competing athletes, it’s for anyone. In fact, it may be more pertinent to those going about more extreme changes in training or those new to endurance running. Food for thought.
Either way, I hope this has been a useful read.
If you have any questions or wish to make an enquiry please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Blog by Alchemy Sport Masseur Chris Moors