Which type of MASSAGE is right for you as a runner?

I found this article helpful from Women's Running, So I thought I would share with you. My souce is sited at end of article. ENJOY… and KEEP running and receiving massages! XOXO, Meta-Maria! "Swedish A mainstay at spas, Swedish style has become a generic way to define a relaxation massage. It is characterized by the use of massage oil and the application of long, flowing strokes along the body using light to medium pressure. Best for runners who… are looking for general stress reduction and improved circulation after a tough training week. While Swedish massage does have some therapeutic properties, runners typically don’t find relief from pain. Sports Sports massage specifically addresses the needs of athletes. Depending on session goals and the training of the massage therapist, sports massage may integrate stretching with the combined elements of other massage techniques. Best for runners who… want to stay healthy and improve performance. Sports massage typically falls into three categories: injury rehabilitation to manage chronic and acute injuries; pre- and post-race support; and maintenance to help athletes stay free from injury and enjoy peak performance during the training season. Trigger Point & Neuromuscular Therapy “Trigger points are hyper-irritable spots in tight muscle bands that can cause muscular weakness and refer pain and tenderness to other areas of the body,” says Peyovich. “In this technique, a trained massage therapist knows the common triggerpoint locations and their associated referral patterns and applies static pressure to help them release.” Best for runners who… want to eliminate pain, increase flexibility and range of motion and restore muscle strength (a.k.a. the three central benefits of trigger-point massage). A complementary technique called Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) addresses the underlying causes of pain by looking at postural issues, biomechanical problems and possible nerve compression. NMT is especially effective in addressing acute injuries, such as tight hip flexors or plantar fasciitis. Fascia Work “The fascia of the body, or the layers of skin and connective tissue, contain all kinds of important sensors and mechanisms. In fascia work, the therapist concentrates on moving and pulling the fascia,” says Kirkeby. Best for runners who… have problem spots. By manipulating the fascia, the tissue becomes more elastic, allowing the athlete to experience less pain and greater range of motion. Though fascia work can be a whole-body treatment, it is typically done in targeted areas, such as the neck or the foot. Active Release Technique (ART) During an ART session, a specially licensed therapist feels for adhesions within the soft tissue. These lumps or tension areas are then broken up using direct pressure and movement. As opposed to most massages, where the therapist does all of the work, ART requires the therapist and client to work in tandem. Best for runners who… are injured—or have been. ART is particularly effective for chronic injuries related to overuse, such as hamstring issues and shin splints." My sources: Read more at http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2015/03/health-wellness/which-type-of-massage-is-best-for-you_36975#zUUSFlGpFDxrJo8x.99 http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2015/03/health-wellness/which-type-of-massage-is-best-for-you_36975