Massage vs. Myofascial Release
What are your thoughts on Myfascial Release techniques (which you can perform) vs. massages for your clients. I saw an interesting article (see link) discussing the benefits of massages, but can they be over rated for your clients who train on a consistent basis.
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-500368_162-57369841/massage-may-help-sore-mu…
I have quite an opinion on this subject as I am a certified MELT (Myofascial Energetic Length Technique) instructor. And in the following, I only make reference to this technique.
MELT is a process of ‘Assess, MELT, reassess’, and a person who can self-assess well will know which MELT technique to use for optimal results. In the article, people talk about massage after a workout to reduce muscle soreness. MELT is applicable after cardiovascular exercises, but is even more valuable before a strength workout because it attempts to rebalance the body and create better alignment.
I know that there are wonderful massage therapists who are very knowledgeable, and a massage by any one of them would be a great benefit. But cost is clearly a factor, and so the fact that not all massage therapists are created equal.
I personally much rather apply MELT techniques to myself based on how my body feels.