When Should Runners Get Sports Massage?

Written By Peter Mercer

Introduction

Many runners only think about massage when something hurts. However, sports and remedial massage is often most effective when used proactively — supporting the body throughout training rather than reacting to injury. Understanding when massage is most useful can help runners manage fatigue, reduce tightness, and stay consistent with their training.

Massage During Base Training

Base training is the ideal time to establish good recovery habits.

Massage during this phase can help:

  • Maintain tissue health

  • Improve movement efficiency

  • Address early tightness before it builds up

Regular treatment at this stage supports resilience as training volume gradually increases.

Massage During Peak Training Weeks

As mileage and intensity increase, the physical demands on the body rise significantly.

Massage during peak training can:

  • Reduce muscle tension

  • Support recovery between sessions

  • Help manage niggles early

  • Maintain joint range of motion

This phase is about keeping the body moving well rather than pushing through discomfort.

 

Massage During Taper Phase

Massage during taper should be lighter and focused on recovery rather than deep tissue work.

Treatment aims during taper include:

  • Reducing residual muscle tension

  • Supporting relaxation

  • Maintaining normal movement patterns

This helps runners feel comfortable and prepared leading into race day.

Post-Race Massage

After a race, muscles are fatigued and often sore due to prolonged loading.

Post-race massage can support:

  • Circulation

  • Reduction of stiffness

  • Restoration of normal movement

  • Overall recovery

Timing is important — light treatment is usually best in the first few days, with deeper work introduced later if needed.

Conclusion

Sports massage isn’t just for injuries. For runners, it works best as part of a structured recovery strategy, supporting the body through every phase of training and helping maintain long-term movement and comfort.

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Note: If you live in Whitstable, Tankerton, Seasalter, Chestfield, Herne Bay, Canterbury or Faversham or the surrounding areas and are looking for a treatment please contact me to find out more.  I offer sports massage to help with training, recovery, injury prevention and to ease aches and pains.  I also offer deep tissue massage treatments to help ease the aches, pains and stresses of everyday life.

Based in Seasalter, Whitstable, Kent, my friendly clinic is the ideal place to relax and relieve any pain you have. Sports massages are just one of the many treatments we offer our valued clients.

Find out more about sports massages in Whitstable or contact me today.

Peter Mercer
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Massage for Marathon Training: How It Supports Your Body.