It’s hard not to feel inspired by the world-class athletes who have overcome some pretty steep odds to participate in this summer's Olympic Games in London. However, you don’t have to be an elite-level athlete to get moving, set a new training goal or finally cross that marathon off your bucketlist.
Regular exercise is key to maintaining overall health and wellness. It increases endorphins which can help manage your stress levels and, according to the Mayo Clinic, regular exercise can improve your mood, combat several health conditions and diseases, and help control your weight.
Massage and Exercise
Now we know that integrating massage therapy into your routine can help ease the inflammation that results from exercise-induced muscle damage, in turn reducing the pain that might accompany any new work-out plan. Research through the Buck Institute for Research on Aging and McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario indicates that massage therapy reduces inflammation of skeletal muscle acutely damaged through exercise. The study provides evidence for the benefits of massage therapy for those with musculoskeletal injuries and potentially for those with inflammatory disease, according to the lead author of the research.
» The research: How massage reduces inflammation in muscles.
No matter what your level of physical activity, you can find the right massage therapist to fit your needs. Visit AMTA's Find A Massage Therapist national locator service to find a qualified AMTA member massage therapist near you. Narrow your search by technique and location.