Attention all parkrunners!
Are you looking to;
Boost your performance?
Enhance your recovery routine?
Sooth those post-run muscle aches?
Then you need a massage gun.
When I discovered massage guns it was a game changer for me and could be for you too.
Boost your performance
In October 2023, at Burgess parkrun event #486, I ran a personal best of 18mins 32secs. This was in the national class (80%) for my age category (50-56 years old). It still shocks me and gives me a tingling feeling.
A lot of people have asked me how I achieved this. I’m not a coach, I wasn’t on the school running team. I started parkrun in my 40’s, I’m a regular parkrunner. However 12 years in I’m now running faster than ever and I’m convinced it's partly the massage gun. I could feel the massage gun improving my flexibility, and my range of motion. I’m older and faster than ever and running injury-free.
Recommended by my masseur!
The massage gun was recommended to me by my masseur, who I used to see every month. On one occasion they used it on me and I was sold. I bought exactly the same one and the results speak for themselves.
How it works
Massage guns use a percussive force, like a drill, to hit the skin and stimulate underlying tissues.
The benefit
This percussive therapy, helps increase blood flow to your muscles, reduces lactic acid buildup, and speeds up the recovery process. This means you can say goodbye to post-run soreness too. They come with adjustable speed settings and interchangeable attachments, allowing you to personalise use to your specific needs. From deep tissue massage to a gentle massage, you are in control.
I have felt the benefit of using the massage gun in ALL areas of my life as you can use it on your neck, shoulders, back, thighs and calves. It releases knots and tension in my body.
I recommend
1. - Theragun - elite (currently reduced to £199.99 July 24)
It might seem expensive however it’s an investment in your total health and wellbeing. It’s the single best thing I’ve bought to improve my maintain my parkrunning adventure.
Here’s a 1min video with Dr Jason the founder of Theragun and how it works; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jKPf1oNLFU
2. - Bob and Brad Q2 (currently reduced to £79.99 July 24)
I have two very quick running friends who have this. It is considerably cheaper than the Theragun.
3. Theragun Mini (currently reduced to £119 in white July 24)
I was in John Lewis and saw the Theragun ‘store’. I tried the Theragun mini and was super impressed. It’s a much smaller size making it more practicable if you want to put it in a bag to take to a parkrun (or anywhere). You can use it whilst sitting on the bus/train, car (not if you’re driving) to get your muscles ready to run or for the instant recovery.
4. RENPHO Type-C (currently £72.99 in blue July 24)
One of my cousins has the massage gun and swears by it. I’ve used it and it works. However as a ‘unit’ it doesn’t feel as robust as the Theragun.
If you use any of my affiliate links I will get a commission however I am not sponsored by any of these companies. All products have been bought with my money.
How to Incorporate a Massage Gun into Your Parkrun Routine
Pre-parkrun Warm-up
With parkrun having a 0900 start (earlier in some countries) you might be up but your muscles might not be fully awake. Get your muscles ready for action by using the massage gun. I target areas of tightness or stiffness to improve blood circulation for the run ahead. A few minutes with the massage gun can make a world of difference in your performance as your body will be ready to go rather than warming up through the run.
Post-parkrun Recovery
After I’ve finished, had my barcode scanned I enjoy some parkrun farthing (5k app, strava updates). If I’m at home I’ll use my massage gun too. A few minutes using the massage gun will help alleviate any post-run tension, reduce muscle fatigue, and promote faster recovery. I’m confident you’ll will notice the difference too.
Maintenance and Self-care
I aim to use my massage gun every day. I use it for 2 minutes in the morning and 2 minutes before going to bed alongside my usual stretching routine. I’m sure it has contributed to keeping me injury-free.
Conclusion: Improve your parkrun performance and recovery
Whether you're a seasoned parkrunner, chasing an elusive PB or just starting your parkrun journey, a massage gun can help you unlock your full potential and importantly, contribute to avoiding injury.
Don’t wait. Take your parkrun experience to another level with the magic of a massage gun. Let me know if you see an improvement in your times and/or recovery.
Happy running
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