As a former masseur, athlete, and current personal trainer/coach of twelve years, I can’t stress enough the benefits of massage therapy. Massages are something I’ve thoroughly enjoyed since I was a teenager, and the benefits are incredible. Not only do the traditional Swedish massages relax me and reset my mind and body, sports massages have their own desired benefits. Whether you’re exercising at a high intensity or putting in the miles for your next half marathon or 25 mile TT, your body simply needs to be reset. Imagine running around an athletics track, squatting in the gym leaning slightly to one side, or a dentist sitting with one foot on the pedal and one leg slightly flexed at the knee. Over time these habitual movement patterns create asymmetries, and if you don’t have time everyday to stretch out the muscles to reset alignment, then this is where massages can be crucial. A deep tissue massage/sports massage has many benefits, but aligning the muscle fibres, breaking down knots, and removing waste products will aid recovery and adaptation. You must inform the therapist of the correct pressure and the area that needs to be worked on. It’s not wise for a therapist to go deep into an area shortly before a competition, so feedback is imperative throughout the massage. Swedish massage/relaxation massages play their roll too. If you’re fortunate to get one regularly, like once a month like I do, I honestly believe they are essential for longevity. We all know the health benefits like reducing stress, immune health, etc, but overall they provide the mind and body to completely relax and be a peace, which can only be all good!

I find it hard to find a massage therapist that is excellent. I suppose it’s each to their own, but in terms of the overall standard quality, I have used Massage House in London which is a mobile business. I also try and treat myself once a year at a spa, but I like to make sure the interior is perfect to make the overall experience enjoyable.