2025-11-18 10:00
Pros and Cons of Sports Massage: Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect
Having worked with athletes across different disciplines for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how sports massage can be both a game-changer and, in some cases, a source of unexpected complications. When I heard that Simon Enciso officially joined TNT after the ballclub picked him up from the unrestricted free agent market, it got me thinking about the kind of physical and mental preparation players like him undergo. Sports massage is often part of that regimen—a tool to enhance performance, speed up recovery, and prevent injuries. But let’s be real, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. In my experience, the benefits are substantial, but there are also risks that many people, including some professionals, tend to overlook.
First off, the advantages of sports massage are hard to ignore. From a physiological standpoint, it boosts blood circulation, which can increase oxygen delivery to muscles by up to 25% in some cases. I’ve had clients report feeling more flexible and less stiff after just one session, and studies back this up—research suggests that regular massage can reduce muscle soreness by around 30% after intense activity. For an athlete like Enciso, who’s navigating the pressures of a new team, this could mean faster adaptation to training loads and a lower risk of strains. I remember working with a basketball player last year who struggled with hamstring tightness; after incorporating weekly sports massages, his on-court mobility improved noticeably, and he avoided what could have been a season-ending injury. On top of that, there’s the psychological edge. The relaxation effect isn’t just fluff—it can lower cortisol levels, helping athletes manage stress. In high-stakes environments, that mental clarity can be the difference between a clutch play and a missed opportunity.
But here’s where I’ll play devil’s advocate: sports massage isn’t without its downsides. One major risk is the potential for over-treatment. I’ve seen therapists go too deep, too fast, leading to bruising or even minor tissue damage. In fact, a survey I came across indicated that roughly 15% of athletes experience some form of discomfort post-massage, ranging from mild soreness to acute pain. Another issue is timing—getting a massage too close to a game can backfire. I once advised a runner to avoid deep tissue work 24 hours before a marathon, but she didn’t listen and ended up feeling sluggish and heavy-legged. It’s a classic example of how even a well-intentioned intervention can go wrong if not tailored to individual needs. Plus, let’s not forget cost and accessibility. Not every athlete has the resources for frequent sessions; a single hour can run anywhere from $80 to $150, which adds up quickly. For someone like Enciso, with team support, it’s manageable, but for amateur athletes, it’s often a luxury.
So, what should you expect if you’re considering sports massage? Based on my practice, it’s crucial to communicate openly with your therapist. A good session starts with a thorough assessment—discussing your activity level, any injuries, and goals. For instance, if you’re recovering from a tough workout, a lighter, circulatory-focused approach might work best. But if you’re dealing with chronic tightness, deeper techniques could be on the table. I always remind clients that some discomfort is normal, but sharp pain is a red flag. And recovery doesn’t end when you leave the table; hydration is key. I recommend drinking at least 500ml of water post-session to flush out metabolic waste. Over the years, I’ve noticed that athletes who combine massage with proper nutrition and sleep see the best results—it’s about integration, not isolation.
In wrapping up, I’ll say this: sports massage is a powerful tool, but it’s not magic. For professionals like Simon Enciso, it could be a vital part of staying game-ready in a competitive league. Yet, it demands a balanced approach. Weigh the pros—like enhanced recovery and mental ease—against the cons, such as cost and potential misuse. Personally, I’m a big advocate for incorporating it into training plans, but only when done thoughtfully. If you’re new to it, start slow and listen to your body. After all, the goal is to support your performance, not undermine it.
