So, you’ve been toying with the idea of booking a sports massage. Maybe your shoulders are constantly tight from training, or your legs feel heavy after long runs. Or perhaps you're just carrying general tension and wondering if a sports massage could help.
If it’s your first time, it’s completely normal to have questions. Will it be painful? Do you need to be super sporty to benefit? What actually happens during the session?
We're here to demystify the process and guide you through exactly what to expect—so you can feel relaxed, informed, and confident when you walk through our doors.
First Off: Who’s It For?
Let’s clear something up straight away: sports massage isn’t just for elite athletes or serious gym-goers.
We work with all sorts of people—runners, cyclists, desk workers, weekend warriors, and those simply looking to move a bit better and feel less tense. If your body feels tight, sore, or restricted, chances are you’ll benefit from a session.
What’s the Goal?
Sports massage is all about function. It helps to:
- Release tight or overworked muscles
- Improve circulation and movement
- Reduce post-exercise soreness
- Support recovery from minor injuries
- Prevent future niggles or imbalances
It’s a proactive, hands-on way to help your body move and feel better—whether you’re training hard or just trying to keep up with everyday life.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
🗣 The Initial Chat
We’ll begin with a short consultation so we can understand you, your lifestyle, and what you’re hoping to get out of the session. This includes any aches, injuries, or areas you’d like us to focus on.
Don’t worry—you don’t need to know technical terms or be training for an event. Just let us know how your body’s feeling in your own words, and we’ll take it from there.
🧦 What to Wear
You’ll be asked to undress to your comfort level—we'd recommend wearing loose-fittng sports shorts, and a sports bra if appropriate, and we’ll only uncover the area we’re working on. You’ll be covered with a towel throughout the session, and we’ll make sure you feel completely comfortable at all times. Check out our FAQ section for more info.
Tips to Prepare for Your First Session
Here are a few simple ways you can prepare to get the most from your appointment:
🔹 Hydrate well before and after – Water helps flush out waste products and can reduce post-massage soreness.
🔹 Avoid heavy meals beforehand – You don’t want to be lying face down with a full stomach. A light snack is fine.
🔹 Wear comfy clothes – You may feel a little tender after, so soft, loose-fitting clothes are ideal.
🔹 Think about your goals – Whether you’ve got a specific issue or just want a general reset, having an idea of what you’d like to achieve helps us tailor the session to you.
🔹 Arrive a few minutes early – This gives you time to settle in and means we can start on time without any rush.
What It Actually Feels Like
Unlike a traditional relaxation massage, sports massage is more targeted and often deeper. We use a mix of techniques like soft tissue release, trigger point work, and stretching to address specific muscles and movement patterns.
💬 Will it hurt?
You might feel some intensity, especially if the muscles are particularly tight—but we’ll always work within your comfort levels. It should feel like “good pain” (the satisfying, productive kind), never something you need to brace through.
We’ll check in with you throughout, and you can always tell us if anything feels too much or if you’d like a change in pressure.
After Your Massage
It’s normal to feel a little tender for a day or so afterwards—almost like you’ve had a decent workout. That’s your body processing the treatment and adjusting.
Here’s what helps:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid intense exercise for the next 24 hours
- Do gentle stretching or movement if you feel up to it
- Listen to any aftercare advice we give – it’s based on what your body needs
How Often Should You Come?
It really depends on your goals. Some people come every few weeks during heavy training, others once a month for general maintenance. We’ll happily chat this through with you and help you figure out what’s right for your body and your lifestyle.
There’s no pressure to commit to a regular schedule—just start with one session and see how you feel.
Final Thoughts
Booking a sports massage can feel like a big step—especially if you’ve never had one before. But for many people, it becomes a key part of how they stay active, mobile, and injury-free.
We’re here to support you, answer your questions, and make sure you feel looked after every step of the way. Whether you’re recovering, training, or simply want to feel more comfortable in your own body, we’ve got your back (literally!).
Still have questions?
We’ve put together a handy FAQ section on our website where you’ll find answers to the most common queries—including what to bring, what to expect if you’re nervous, and how to book.
And if you’re ready to give it a go—we’d love to welcome you.
