Athletic massages

[LauraMax]

I'm seriously thinking about doing this, if only for the pampering part of it. Has anyone ever had one done? How was it? Does it hurt?

Also, my other issue is guy vs. girl. I had a massage by a guy once & I have to admit, I felt pretty weird about it. So it pretty much defeated the purpose--that being relaxing a little--b/c all it did was make me more tense. But there's this dude in the area that comes very highly recommended, & it's not at my gym (I don't want to get a massage at my gym b/c I'd just feel too freaked working out next to someone who's seen me practically nekkid).

Any thoughts?

 

[Kathy02]

Do you mean Rolfing? Like deep tissue massages? Or just a massage? Because my cousin is a Rolfer in Colorado and she sees mostly athletes. Now if you want to pamper yourself, I would NOT suggest a deep tissue massage. This is a very painful massage, the actually use their hands and fingers to move top layers of muscles to get to the deeper muscles. You will be very sore the next day, but it helps torn muscles heal faster, somehow. I've obviously never had it done, I've just heard that it's not the type of relaxing massage that you normally get, it's painful. But I guess in a couple of days after the massage you feel way better than you did before you went in.
If you are looking for someone that does more of a relaxing massage, but just want to make sure that they dig deeper, I would look for a regular masssage therapist and get recommendations. Because some will give you a light massage, while others try to dig a little deeper and work out knots.
I hope that this helped.

Kathy
Edited to add this website on Rolfing
http://www.rolf.org/about/index.htm

 

[Imafitnessfreak]

I have had a deep tissue from a guy and a sports massage after my marathon from a woman. Both told me that if it hurt, let them know and they would ease up. They figure if your not enjoying it, you're not coming back. I, personally, like the deep tissue, knot killing type massages. Both felt really good and I recommend them.

Ask around. If you prefer a woman, nothing wrong with that. Keep in mind, they are professionals...much more fascinated with the muscles, circulation and all that fun stuff...and not perverts (not saying they don't exist). Still, you have to be comfortable.

I think regular massages are an excellent idea and would do it regularly if I could afford it. Ask some of your more active friends for recommendations so that you can get a person who works well with very active people such as yourself.

 

[beautifulsoul]

I get regular pampering massages once a month, I have never tried a deep tissue but it is painful when she digs deep to get the knots out. I am definately more comfortable with a woman. I have tried many different massage therepists before I found the one I liked, it seems they all have their own technique. My sister is a masseuse but lives in PA.
HTH

 

[LauraMax]

Thanks guys, I think you've answered my questions. Kathy I've never heard of Rolfing but I think that's what I was asking about......

Maybe I'll just go w/the regular massage. I've had a tough month, what w/Cosmo's troubles & my boss being completely MIA, my stress levels have hit the roof.

 

[gym_mom]

LauraMax -
It all depends on what kind of touch you prefer. I get a sports massage every five to six weeks and LOVE IT. Once in a while it'll be painful, but I tell him right away and he eases up. I'm fully dressed during the massage so I don't feel uncomfortable at all. He tells me if he's going to work on a muscle in areas that I may be more self conscious about. It's never been a problem.

I once had a chair massage from a woman who was just starting up her own business. I could hardly feel her working on me. I get really stubborn knots and I like it when the massage therapist really gets in there good.

My DH on the other hand can't stand too much pressure. If I rub his neck and apply the slighest bit of pressure, he complains.

I suggest you try both. Figure out what you prefer and then enjoy!

Claude


"Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter." Satchel Paige