Running a Marathon? Consider Pre and Post Event Massage

Posted on September 12, 2024

Running a Marathon? Consider Pre and Post Event Massage

Participating in a marathon is a significant physical challenge, and preparing both mentally and physically is essential for success. One key element to consider in your training routine is incorporating pre- and post-event massage. These massages not only enhance performance but also aid in recovery, ensuring that your body can handle the rigorous demands of the race.

What is Pre and Post Event Massage?

Pre- and post-event massage refers to targeted massage sessions before and after a race or athletic event. The techniques used in these massages differ from standard sessions, with specific goals designed to prepare the body beforehand and assist in recovery afterward.

What to Expect from a Pre Event Massage?

A pre-event massage is intended to prepare your soft tissue for the upcoming marathon. Unlike regular deep tissue massages, the goal is not to address ongoing issues or focus on injury rehabilitation. Instead, the therapist aims to loosen muscles, improve blood flow, and enhance flexibility, all critical factors for peak performance.

This type of massage is generally lighter in pressure and fast-paced, ensuring muscles are not overworked before the event. Overexerting the muscles during this massage can lead to fatigue or even injury, which is counterproductive right before a marathon. It is recommended to schedule your pre-event massage within 24 hours of the race to maximise its benefits. This timing helps ensure that your muscles are primed but not fatigued by more intense work, such as a deep tissue session.

What to Expect from a Post Event Massage?

After completing the marathon, a post-event massage can play a crucial role in your recovery process. The goal of this massage is to aid the muscles in returning to their pre-event state by addressing inflammation, tension, and stiffness. The massage focuses on lighter pressure, which facilitates recovery rather than adding strain to already tired muscles.

Techniques such as lymphatic drainage are often used during post-event massages. Lymphatic drainage helps to flush out waste products, such as lactic acid, which can accumulate in the muscles during intense activity. This is important because lactic acid buildup can lead to muscle stiffness and discomfort if not properly cleared out. Another commonly used technique is myofascial release, which helps release muscle tension and reduces inflammation.

A post-event massage also helps prevent DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness), a condition many marathon runners experience due to the strenuous nature of the race. This soreness usually peaks within 24-48 hours after the event and can be debilitating. A well-timed massage, typically within 30 minutes to 48 hours after the marathon, can significantly reduce the severity of DOMS, promoting faster recovery.

Mental Readiness is Key

While much of the focus of pre- and post-event massage is on physical preparation and recovery, mental readiness is just as important. Preparing for a marathon can be mentally draining, and it’s crucial to align your mental focus with your physical capabilities. A good massage therapist will not only work on your muscles but also support your mental state, ensuring you feel motivated, confident, and focused before the race.

Post-event, the therapist can help you reflect on your achievement and maintain a positive mindset, helping you feel accomplished and ready for future races. Marathon running is a massive accomplishment, and celebrating your success is an important part of the recovery process.

Conclusion

Incorporating pre- and post-event massages into your marathon training routine can provide numerous benefits for both your body and mind. By preparing your muscles effectively before the race and supporting their recovery afterward, these massages help optimise your performance and minimise post-race soreness. So, whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or tackling your first race, consider adding these massages to your training strategy—your body will thank you!

For further information about our event massage services or to make a booking please contact us today.

Sports Massage Experts Leading the Way in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham and Beyond

Posted on July 14, 2024

Sports Massage Experts Leading the Way in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham and Beyond

LiveWell Health, a renowned provider of top-tier massage therapy across the UK, traces its roots back to Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, where owner and managing director Steven Hartill first established the practice. A distinguished elite-level sports therapist himself, Steven offers a comprehensive range of advanced massage therapies, including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Pregnancy, Lymphatic Drainage, and – crucially – Sports Massage. With his level 5 qualification, obtained by attending Oxford University within their Sports Massage course, Steve has learnt advanced sports massage techniques that have served his customers well. From this knowledge he has taken time to train his team, not just in the local area of Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham of which there is now a team of 20 sports therapists, but to his wider team across the UK meaning all 89+ sports therapists we employ at LiveWell have the most advanced and specialised knowledge on the market.

Whether you are a first timer venturing into fitness, or a seasoned elite athlete like some of Steves clients such as Chris Woakes or Chris Skelley or Celebrities like Billie Eilish and others, sports massage can be just the treatment you need.

The Sutton Coldfield-based team comprises highly qualified soft tissue specialists, adept at delivering massage therapy not only to the general public but also to elite athletes and celebrities. From these humble beginnings, Steven has successfully expanded LiveWell Health’s reach, now operating clinics in major cities across the UK, including Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Coventry, Manchester, Liverpool, London, Colchester, Gloucester, Leeds, Sheffield, and Barnsley.

Sports Massage Experts Leading the Way in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham and Beyond

Never heard of Sutton Coldfield in Birmingham?

Although renowned as the “Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield”, this leafy suburb is intrinsically linked to Birmingham. Located just eight miles northeast of the city centre, Sutton Coldfield is officially a part of the City of Birmingham. While it retains its own unique identity and town council, residents benefit from Birmingham’s broader infrastructure, resources, and economic opportunities. Its close proximity to Birmingham makes it a popular choice for commuters seeking a quieter, greener lifestyle while still enjoying easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural scene, employment hubs, and extensive transportation network.

Nice to know right? Well if you don’t live here, probably not… anyway, back to the subject in hand!

LiveWell Health’s expertise extends beyond simply providing Sports Massage. Several team members, including Steven, are dedicated to educating the next generation of sports therapists, ensuring the highest standards of practice continue to flourish. Whether you’re a professional athlete seeking performance enhancement, a weekend warrior nursing an injury, or simply someone looking for relaxation and well-being, LiveWell Health’s experienced therapists are ready to tailor a Sports Massage treatment specifically to your needs.

Experience the LiveWell Health difference – where expertise, passion, and a commitment to excellence converge to provide unparalleled Sports Massage therapy in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, and throughout the UK.

If you think you may benefit from a sports massage treatment, or indeed any other treatment that our team offer within the Birmingham area, then please contact us, visit our Birmingham Page or make a booking!

Livewell Health at the Black Country Half Marathon

Posted on July 8, 2024

Livewell Health at the Black Country Half Marathon: Enhancing Athlete Performance and Recovery

This past Saturday morning in Birmingham, Livewell Health proudly participated in the Black Country Marathon, providing essential pre- and post-race services to runners. The marathon, known for its challenging course and vibrant community atmosphere, was the perfect venue for Livewell Health to showcase its commitment to enhancing athlete performance and recovery.

As athletes gathered at the starting line, the excitement and nervous energy were palpable. To help runners prepare for the rigorous race ahead, Livewell Health set up a dedicated area offering pre-race massages. Our team of professional therapists worked diligently to warm up muscles, increase circulation, and alleviate pre-race jitters. These targeted massages helped runners achieve optimal physical readiness, potentially enhancing their performance and reducing the risk of injury.

In addition to traditional massage therapy, Livewell Health introduced the innovative use of compression boots. These high-tech devices are designed to improve blood flow and expedite the body’s natural recovery process. Before the race, many athletes took advantage of this service, experiencing the benefits of compression therapy firsthand. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with runners noting a significant difference in their muscle readiness and overall comfort.

As the marathon concluded and participants crossed the finish line, the Livewell Health team was ready to assist with post-race recovery. Exhausted but exhilarated runners flocked to our booth, eager for the relief provided by post-race massages. These messages focused on reducing muscle tension, minimising soreness, and promoting relaxation after the strenuous effort. The compression boots also played a crucial role in post-race recovery, helping to alleviate swelling and speed up the healing process.

Livewell Health’s involvement in the Black Country Marathon was a resounding success, highlighting our dedication to supporting athletes at every stage of their journey. By offering comprehensive pre- and post-race services, we ensured that runners could perform at their best and recover swiftly, ready to tackle their next challenge. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the marathon and enhancing the athletic experience for all participants.

If you are running / hosting a large event whether it is a sporting one or not and feel you need our recovery services then please contact our team. Alternatively you can make a booking request via our event booking system or if you would like the full recovery hub experience then you can use our recovery hub booking request.

The Power of Sports Massage: Performance and Recovery

Posted on July 1, 2024

The Power of Sports Massage: Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery

Whether you’re a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or just someone who enjoys staying active, sports massage can be a game-changer in your fitness journey. This specialized form of massage therapy offers a wide range of benefits that go far beyond relaxation. In this article, we’ll explore the numerous advantages of sports massage and why it’s a crucial component of many athletes’ training and recovery routines.

1. Enhanced Athletic Performance

One of the most significant benefits of sports massage is its ability to boost athletic performance. By targeting specific muscle groups and alleviating tension, sports massage helps improve flexibility and range of motion. This increased flexibility allows athletes to move more freely and efficiently, which is especially vital in sports that require agility and quick movements. As a result, athletes can perform at their best and reduce the risk of injury.

2. Faster Recovery

The demands of intense physical activity can lead to muscle soreness and fatigue. Sports massage helps in the speedy recovery of fatigued muscles by increasing blood circulation and lymphatic flow. This enhanced circulation assists in the removal of waste products and reduces muscle soreness, allowing athletes to bounce back faster and maintain their training consistency.

3. Injury Prevention

Preventing injuries is a top priority for athletes of all levels. Sports massage is an invaluable tool in injury prevention. By identifying and addressing muscle imbalances and areas of tension, massage therapists can reduce the risk of overuse injuries. They can also spot potential issues before they become more severe, helping athletes make necessary adjustments to their training routines.

4. Stress Reduction

Training and competition can be physically and mentally taxing. Sports massage offers a dual benefit by reducing both physical and mental stress. The soothing touch of massage can have a calming effect, helping athletes manage anxiety and stay focused on their goals.

5. Improved Posture and Body Awareness

A well-trained sports massage therapist can identify and address postural issues and imbalances that may be negatively impacting an athlete’s performance. By focusing on these areas, athletes can improve their posture and overall body awareness, which can lead to better movement and reduced strain on the body.

6. Targeted Rehabilitation

In cases where injuries have already occurred, sports massage can be an integral part of the rehabilitation process. Therapists can work alongside healthcare professionals to design a customized massage plan that aids in the healing and recovery of injured muscles and tissues.

7. Enhanced Immune System Function

Regular sports massage can also strengthen the immune system. The reduction of stress and the improvement in circulation and lymphatic flow can help the body better defend against illnesses, keeping athletes in peak condition.

8. Mental Clarity and Focus

Physical well-being and mental health are intricately connected. Sports massage contributes to mental clarity and focus, helping athletes stay motivated and determined to achieve their goals.

In conclusion, sports massage is not just a luxury; it’s a powerful tool that can significantly impact an athlete’s performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Whether you’re a professional athlete or someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, incorporating sports massage into your routine can help you achieve your fitness objectives and enjoy a more balanced, injury-free life. Consult with a qualified sports massage therapist to discover how this specialized therapy can benefit your athletic journey.

The Winning Edge – Benefits of Event Massage

Posted on July 1, 2024

Introduction: In the competitive world of sports, where athletes push their limits to achieve incredible feats, the role of sports massage therapists has gained significant recognition. Their expertise is more than just relaxation; it’s a crucial component of an athlete’s performance and recovery. Having sports massage therapists on-site during a sporting event to provide your event massage is like having a secret weapon that can provide athletes with the winning edge. In this article, we will delve into the benefits of having sports massage therapists right at the heart of the action.

1. Preparation and Performance Enhancement: Before athletes step onto the field, they need to be in peak physical condition and that is where pre-event massage will help. On-site sports massage therapists are specialists in techniques that can help athletes prepare their bodies for the demands of the game. Through targeted pre-event massages, therapists can stimulate circulation, increase flexibility, and alleviate tension in muscles. This not only enhances performance but also reduces the risk of injuries during their event.

2. Injury Prevention and Rapid Recovery: Athletes are susceptible to injuries due to the repetitive strain and impact on their bodies. On-site sports massage therapists are equipped to address these concerns promptly. By focusing on areas prone to injuries, therapists can identify tightness, knots, or imbalances and use techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and stretching to alleviate these issues. The immediate attention provided by therapists can prevent minor discomforts from escalating into serious injuries, thereby ensuring athletes stay in the game.

3. Reduced Muscle Fatigue and Improved Circulation: During intense sporting events, athletes’ muscles can become fatigued due to the buildup of lactic acid and other metabolic waste. Sports massage therapists can employ techniques to facilitate the removal of these waste products, promoting better circulation. Improved blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to muscles, aiding in their recovery. By mitigating muscle fatigue, athletes can maintain their performance levels throughout the event.

4. Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Competing in high-stakes events can take a toll on an athlete’s mental state. On-site sports massage therapists not only attend to physical concerns but also help athletes manage stress and anxiety. Massage triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. Athletes can enter competitions with a clear and focused mindset, enabling them to make quick decisions and perform optimally under pressure.

5. Personalized Care and Immediate Feedback: On-site sports massage therapists can provide athletes with individualized attention. They can tailor massage techniques to address specific needs or areas of discomfort, ensuring each athlete receives the care they require. Moreover, therapists can offer immediate feedback regarding an athlete’s muscle condition, flexibility, and overall physical state. This real-time information can guide coaches and athletes in making informed decisions during the event.

6. Enhanced Post-Event Recovery: After the final whistle blows, the importance of post-event recovery cannot be overstated. On-site sports massage therapists continue to play a pivotal role in this phase. Post-event massages help reduce muscle soreness, promote circulation, and expedite the removal of waste products accumulated during the game. Athletes can bounce back quicker, making the recovery process more efficient and effective.

Conclusion: The presence of sports massage therapists on-site at sporting events offers a multitude of benefits that contribute to an athlete’s overall performance and well-being. From preparation and injury prevention to stress reduction and post-event recovery, their expertise serves as a vital component in an athlete’s toolkit for success. As the sports world continues to embrace the importance of holistic care, the role of on-site sports massage therapists remains an essential ingredient in the recipe for victory.

If you are ever in need of a company to help provide your sports massage requirements at your next event, then please contact our team on info@livewellhealth.co.uk or alternatively visit our website and browse our services in more detail by clicking here.

Park Run at Sutton Park

Posted on June 10, 2024

RunThroughUK Park Run at Sutton Park: A Day of Support and Recovery

Our team recently had the pleasure of being invited by RunThroughUK to attend the Park Run event at Sutton Park. This event brought together a vibrant community of runners, each eager to challenge themselves and embrace the camaraderie that defines these gatherings. Our team of four sports therapists was excited to be part of this dynamic event, contributing to the runners’ overall experience by offering essential pre and post-race sports massages.

The day was filled with enthusiasm and energy as runners of all ages and skill levels gathered at Sutton Park. Our therapists set up stations to provide pre and post event massages, strategically positioned to catch the runners both before they embarked on their races and after they crossed the finish line. The primary aim was to help the runners prepare their bodies for the physical demands of the race and to aid in their recovery post-race, ensuring they left the event feeling rejuvenated and cared for.

Throughout the event, our therapists interacted with numerous participants, each with unique stories and motivations for running. The pre-race massages focused on warming up the muscles, enhancing flexibility, and reducing the risk of injury. Post-race, the massages helped in alleviating muscle tension, reducing soreness, and promoting faster recovery. It was incredibly rewarding to see the immediate benefits of our work reflected in the relieved expressions and appreciative feedback from the runners.

The Park Run at Sutton Park was not just an event but a celebration of health, fitness, and community spirit. We are grateful to RunThroughUK for inviting us and providing us with the opportunity to support the runners in such a meaningful way. The event was a resounding success, filled with inspiring moments and shared achievements.

As we packed up our equipment at the end of the day, we reflected on the joy and satisfaction that comes from helping others achieve their goals. We look forward to future events and continuing our mission to support the health and well-being of the running community. Thank you, RunThroughUK, for having us, and we hope everyone enjoyed the day as much as we did!

What we do..

LIVEWELL work with more than 200 sporting event providers all over the UK from small family run local community 5k runs to the very large london, birmingham and manchester marathons. With this in mind if you have a sporting event and would like some sports therapists set up to offer a pre and post race recovery service then please contact us today.

Malvern Hills Half Marathon

Posted on June 10, 2024

Malvern Hills Half Marathon

Two of our therapists Jenny & Leon attended the Malvern Hills Half Marathon recently. They had a great day providing pre & post race massages to all the amazing runners taking part in the event. Well done to everyone that competed & thank you for having us!

“A great company. Really helpful from the outset, professional staff & service provided. Thanks for your help”

Dave Talbot, Event Organiser

What we do..

LiveWell Health currently work with a number of sporting events around the UK both large and small providing pre and post event massage. Our team of specialists can be on hand not just for massage but to offer a range of pre and post race recovery services too.

Supporting the Wolverhampton Half Marathon

Posted on June 10, 2024

Supporting the Wolverhampton Half Marathon Runners

LiveWell Health was proud to be a part of the Wolverhampton Half Marathon, offering our support and expertise to the dedicated runners. Our Lead Therapist, Steve, and Senior Therapist, Mike, attended the event, providing pre and post race massages to the participants. It was a fantastic day, filled with excitement, determination, and community spirit.

Enhancing Performance and Recovery

Steve and Mike played a crucial role in helping runners prepare for the race and recover afterward. Pre-race massages and taping focused on warming up muscles, increasing circulation, and reducing the risk of injury, ensuring that the athletes were in optimal condition for their run. Post-race massages helped alleviate muscle soreness, reduce fatigue, and speed up recovery, allowing runners to feel better and recover faster after their impressive efforts.

A Day to Remember

The atmosphere at the Wolverhampton Half Marathon was electric, with runners of all ages and abilities coming together to challenge themselves and support one another. Steve and Mike were thrilled to contribute to such a positive and inspiring event. They were able to interact with many participants, providing not only physical relief but also encouragement and support.

Gratitude and Recognition

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to everyone who competed in the Wolverhampton Half Marathon. Your hard work, perseverance, and determination were truly inspiring. We also want to express our gratitude for having us at the event. It was an honour to support such amazing athletes and be a part of their journey.

Our Commitment to post event recovery

At LiveWell Health, we are dedicated to promoting health and improving recovery through our range of services. Our participation in events like the Wolverhampton Half Marathon reflects our commitment to supporting athletes and the broader community. Whether it’s through pre- and post-race massages or through our comprehensive recovery hub, we strive to help individuals perform at their best and lead healthier lives.

We look forward to continuing our support at future events and contributing to the success and well-being of athletes everywhere. Thank you, Wolverhampton Half Marathon, for having us, and congratulations again to all the runners!

If you need some sports therapists providing pre and post event massage services then please get in contact today or make a booking online.

Sports Massage Therapists To The Pro’s!

Posted on May 31, 2024

LIVEWELL is the number one choice for Sports Massage therapists to the Pro’s!

Sports Massage is as we know a key component to any elite sports person’s regime and LIVEWELL have been providing sports massage therapists and offering the very best sports massage treatments across the UK to help. Our team of highly trained professionals have been working with athletes from Team GB, Premier League Football clubs, Cricket Clubs, Rugby clubs and much more up and down the UK for many years helping to keep injuries at bay and repair muscles after a hard competition.

Athletes like our very own Jodie Stimpson, Team GB triathlete and someone who knows very well the benefits given through a good sports massage and a therapist who know’s the body inside and out. With training hitting in excess of 6 sessions a week for the vast majority of serious athletes you can see how training really takes it’s toll on the body. Having a regular sports massage can help keep the muscles healthy, get rid of built up tension and prevent injury as well as helping to improve performance. This is so important for a professional athlete training for a up coming competition, as even a short break from the training schedule due to injury can see a real impact on results and indeed fitness.

Now you may be reading this and thinking well, I don’t class myself as an athlete like these guys but do 3 or 4 hard sessions a week in the gym or on the running track. Well the principle is the same, training hard means your muscles need the care to keep them injury free and a good sports massage with a highly trained sports therapist and soft tissue specialist can be just what you need to kick on into the next stage of your training.

With our level 4 and 5 qualified sports massage and soft tissue specialists we can help you not only with hands on treatment but an array of techniques, stretches and solid dietary advice to keep your body at 100% effectiveness.

For further information check out our Sports Massage page today.

Birmingham Half with Cure Leukaemia & PWC

Posted on May 5, 2024

On the 5th of May 2024, the streets of Birmingham were alive with the energy of thousands of runners as they participated in the highly anticipated Birmingham Half Marathon. The event was a testament to the spirit of community and athleticism, with participants of all ages and abilities coming together to take on the challenge of the half marathon course.

Among the runners were individuals from PriceWaterHouseCoopers (PWC), who partnered with Cure Leukaemia to support their incredible work in the fight against blood cancer. As part of their preparation for the marathon, PWC invited the LiveWell team to their head office in Birmingham to provide pre-event sports massage for the runners. This invaluable service helped to warm up the muscles, stimulate blood flow, and prepare the participants for the gruelling race ahead, reducing the risk of injury and optimising their performance on the day.

The atmosphere at the PWC head office was electric as runners eagerly awaited their turn for a sports massage from the skilled therapists at LiveWell. With smiles on their faces and a sense of determination in their hearts, the runners embraced the opportunity to relax and prepare both mentally and physically for the challenge ahead.

As the marathon got underway, it was clear that the hard work and dedication of both the runners and the support teams had paid off. The streets were lined with cheering spectators, and the runners pushed themselves to new heights, achieving personal bests and crossing the finish line with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

The collaboration between PWC, Cure Leukaemia, and LiveWell exemplified the power of community and teamwork in making a positive impact on the lives of others. Through their combined efforts, they not only raised vital funds for a worthy cause but also inspired individuals to push themselves beyond their limits and achieve their goals. The Birmingham Half Marathon was not just a race; it was a celebration of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Birmingham Half Marathon with PWC and Cure Leukaemia

What are the benefits of pre event massage?

Pre-event massage is a form of massage therapy specifically tailored to preparing an individual’s body for physical activity or competition. Some of the benefits of pre-event massage include:

Increased blood flow: Pre-event massage helps stimulate blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, preparing them for activity.
Improved flexibility: Massage techniques such as effleurage and petrissage can help loosen tight muscles and improve joint flexibility, allowing for greater range of motion during exercise or competition.
Reduced muscle tension: By targeting areas of muscle tightness and tension through gentle soft tissue release techniques and neuromuscular techniques, pre-event massage can help relax the muscles and alleviate any pre-race jitters or anxiety.
Enhanced mental focus: Massage therapy has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress, helping athletes to mentally prepare for their upcoming event and stay focused on their performance goals.
Injury prevention: Pre-event massage can help identify areas of muscle imbalance or tightness that may increase the risk of injury during physical activity. By addressing these issues beforehand, athletes can reduce the likelihood of sustaining injuries during their event.
Increased proprioception: Massage therapy can enhance proprioception, which is the body’s ability to sense its position and movement in space. This heightened awareness can help athletes maintain proper form and technique during exercise or competition.
Improved recovery: Pre-event massage can help prime the body’s recovery processes, facilitating faster recovery from strenuous physical activity and reducing post-exercise soreness.

Overall, pre-event massage can be a valuable tool for athletes looking to optimize their performance and reduce the risk of injury during competition. It is essential to consult with a qualified massage therapist who specializes in sports massage to ensure that the treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals.

pre event sports massage services by livewell health

If you are a charity, company or event an event organiser and you are interested in working with the livewell team on your event, please contact us today and we can discuss having our team on site for you.

Livewell at PWC offices in Birmingham providing pre event massage

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