Why Athletes Book Remedial Massage Before Competition, Not Just After
Most people think of massage as something you get after you've pushed your body too hard. For athletes heading into competition, there's a case for booking beforehand too.
What pre-comp massage is actually for
It's not about loosening everything up right before you compete — that can leave you feeling flat rather than sharp. It's more useful earlier in the week, aimed at clearing tightness that's built up through camp so you step into competition without carrying unnecessary restriction.
Timing matters
A session a few days out tends to work better than the day before. Give your body time to settle afterwards rather than trying anything unfamiliar right before you compete.
What to flag beforehand
Tell your therapist what you're competing in, when, and anything that's been nagging through camp. That shapes how the session is run — firmer or lighter, broad or targeted.
It's one piece, not the whole plan
Sleep, tapering training load and nutrition still matter more. Massage is a useful addition to a pre-comp routine, not a substitute for the basics.
Heading into a comp?
Nick Mann works with combat athletes and competitors regularly at our clinic inside Renegade MMA, 92 Parsons Street, Kensington.
Book online or call the clinic on (03) 4054 1621.
