Working Athlete
Live Well
If work pressure is simply too much , then you ’ re going to have to squeeze some training in where you can . Everyone needs to take a break at some point during their work day , so prioritise that time for a short quality run or workout . Not only will you keep your fitness levels up , but it will also rejuvenate you for the rest of the day .
Another option is to run to and from work , which definitely beats sitting in traffic ! Or try driving to work one day with your running kit and a change of work clothes for the next day , then leave the car at the office and run home after work , and run back to work the next day . Just remember that shower facilities at work are a must-have on this one !
1 Hour Holidays
By Karyn Cowan
As any sports person knows , recovery is just as vital as the training itself . A consistent training week followed by a gruelling weekend of sport , or a race that pushes you to your limits , puts the body through incredible strain . With aching muscles , the thought of starting all over again the next day may seem like the journey to Mordor ! Along with ample hydration , sufficient rest and fuelling nutrition , a sports massage may be the “ 1 Hour Holiday ” that your body requires having you bouncing back for hill repeats in no time .
Q : What does a sports massage actually do ? A : Apart from prolonging the longevity of your sporting career , the benefits are abundant :
• Breaks down scar tissue from micro-tearing .
• ‘ Loosens ’ up the muscles by stretching connective tissue , which also improves range of movement .
• Releases muscle tension from overuse or fatigue , which assists in injury prevention .
• ‘ Flushes ’ the limbs , which improves circulation of blood and lymph drainage .
Q : How long is a massage treatment ? A : Sports Massage therapy treatments are generally 60 minutes , but the duration is determined by your personal preference .
Q : Does it hurt ? A : While the image of being given an ice cream stick to bite down on and knuckles turning white may be imprinted on your mind , this should not put you off ! Sports and deep tissue massage is known to be painful for some people , but the therapist should work within your pain threshold and explain what they
are releasing or trying to achieve . It is advisable to communicate with the therapist during the session to ensure you are receiving the pressure that you require , for the outcome that you are expecting ( such as recovery or preparation for an upcoming race ).
Q : Can I stop going for physiotherapy , chiropractic treatment or biokinetics ? A : Sports massage is intended for maintenance and the practice of preventative treatment . One should never replace remedial , professional or diagnostic health care with massage therapy , and a massage therapist should never claim to diagnose , treat or cure acute injuries . Your massage therapist should refer to the relevant medical professionals such as a physiotherapist , a chiropractor or a biokineticist if a client is experiencing a condition out of their scope of practice .
Q : Is Sports Massage only for sports people ? A : Unless contraindicated by your doctor or medical professional , a sports massage or deep tissue treatment is beneficial for anyone who is seeking a more alternative approach to muscular release and wellbeing . Here are some holistic benefits you may discover through massage :
• Improved quality of sleep , lowered heart rate and deeper breathing .
• Increase in the production of the mood neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine , which will give you a sense of wellbeing .
• Improvement in posture and reduction in overall bodily aches .
• Improvement in circulation , digestion and strengthening of the immune system .
Most people have no idea how good their body is designed to feel . Make the most of your massage treatment by ensuring ample hydration before and after your session , and take note that you may experience ‘ detox ’ symptoms after your first sports massage . This is normal and perhaps an indication as to how much your body needed the release !
Karyn Cowan is the owner of In Touch Wellness and a partner at Bedford Wellness Centre . She is a massage therapy specialist , palliative care worker and end of life Doula . Karyn advocates holistic wellness , which includes aspects of mental , physical and emotional health around sport , pregnancy , terminal care , stress management and life transitions . Find out more at www . intouchwellness . co . za , or go to Instagram : in _ touch _ wellness , or Facebook : In Touch Wellness .
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