At The Fitness Charter, many of our clients are curious about myofascial dry cupping—and it’s easy to see why!
From athletes to fitness enthusiasts, people are increasingly turning to this therapy to support their muscles and fascia. Alongside sports massage, myofascial dry cupping can help ease tension, improve movement, and promote a sense of wellbeing. While it isn’t a cure, it’s a helpful way to support your body’s natural recovery.
What Is Myofascial Dry Cupping?
Myofascial dry cupping is a technique where suction cups are placed on the skin to create gentle negative pressure. This lifts the fascia—the connective tissue surrounding your muscles—and the underlying muscles.
Unlike wet cupping, no blood is drawn; the therapy is entirely non-invasive and focuses on supporting muscle function and recovery.
At The Fitness Charter, we offer:
- Static Myofascial Dry Cupping: Cups are left in place for several minutes to target specific areas of tension.
- Sliding/Gliding Myofascial Dry Cupping: Cups are moved along the skin using a small amount of oil, similar to a massage, to improve circulation and tissue mobility.
Both methods complement sports massage, helping to ease tight muscles and encourage improved movement.
How Myofascial Dry Cupping Can Be Beneficial
Supporting Fascia and Muscle Mobility
Tight or restricted fascia can affect how your muscles move. Myofascial dry cupping may help:
- Gently release fascia restrictions
- Improve tissue flexibility
- Encourage smoother, more comfortable movement
Combined with sports massage, it’s a way of helping your muscles feel less tense and more responsive.
Promoting Circulation
The suction in myofascial dry cupping draws blood to the treated area, which can:
- Deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles
- Help remove metabolic waste
- Support the body’s natural recovery process
Sports massage also encourages blood flow and nutrient delivery, so the two therapies can complement each other nicely.
Supporting Relaxation and Muscle Relief
Myofascial dry cupping may have a gentle effect on the nervous system by:
- Reducing the perception of discomfort through nerve stimulation
- Encouraging endorphin release, your body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals
- Helping muscles to relax, enhancing the effects of a sports massage
Encouraging Lymphatic Flow
By lifting the tissue slightly, myofascial dry cupping may support lymphatic drainage, which can help:
- Reduce minor swelling
- Encourage removal of metabolic waste
- Leave you feeling lighter and more comfortable
What the Research Suggests
While research into myofascial dry cupping is still growing, evidence shows it can be a helpful, supportive therapy. Studies suggest it may:
- Ease mild, persistent muscle discomfort in the back, neck, and shoulders
- Reduce post-exercise muscle soreness
- Support flexibility and range of motion
It’s important to remember that myofascial dry cupping is a complementary approach, rather than a replacement for medical care or physiotherapy.
Who Might Benefit from Myofascial Dry Cupping and Sports Massage?
- Athletes and active individuals looking to support recovery
- Anyone with muscle tightness or stiffness
- People wanting to maintain or improve flexibility
- Those seeking a relaxing, restorative experience after physical activity
Supporting Your Body, the Friendly Way
At The Fitness Charter, our aim is to support your body so it can move, recover, and feel its best. Myofascial dry cupping and sports massage are tools we use to ease tension, improve circulation, and encourage mobility. They aren’t cures, but many clients notice muscles feel more relaxed, movement is easier, and overall wellbeing is enhanced.
Whether you’re training for an event, getting back into exercise, or simply want to maintain mobility, myofascial dry cupping and sports massage can be part of a practical, holistic approach to supporting your muscles.
