Let’s talk massage guns. DIY massage tools have been doing the rounds for some time with physical therapists, trainers and sports teams hooked on their ache-easing benefits. These things aren't solely reserved for the pros, many of us want in on the game-changing tech. In the past year, Google searches for ‘massage gun’ have risen by 49% and searches for ‘are massage guns good?’ are up an impressive 267%. Noticing the demand, major e-tailers like Cult Beauty have recently added massage guns to their wellbeing offering making it easier than ever for us to get in on the action.
What Is A Massage Gun?
A massage gun is handheld device that typically uses percussive therapy (basically, massaging the muscles using repetitive vibrations) to relieve soreness and speed up recovery. Pro athlete and former International heptathlete and bobsledder Caroline Pearce swears by them. ‘The targeted vibration relaxes and rejuvenates tight and sore muscles, releases fascia (the tissue that surrounds the muscles) and promotes blood flow to help you prepare faster and recover quicker from exercise,’ says Pearce who recommends the Power Plate massage guns. ‘The vibration is smooth and quiet, yet highly effective at getting rid of tight knots and improving range of motion.’
How To Use A Massage Gun
Most massage guns like Power Plate and Theragun have the option to choose a vibration level and an attachment that feels good for you. ‘Popular areas to target, and some of my favourites, include the shoulders and neck, lower back, glutes, quads and calf muscles,’ says Pearce. ‘Either hold the massager in place or gently move it along the length of the muscles, applying pressure that feels firm but comfortable.’ 60 seconds on each muscle group is recommended, but you can use it for longer if so desired.
How Do Massage Guns Speed Up Recovery?
‘The targeted vibration increases blood flow to the muscles being self-massaged,’ explains Pearce, ‘this increases oxygen delivery and nutrients to the muscles to aid in their recovery.’ What’s more, the increased blood flow improves lymph flow – ‘which in turn helps remove the fatiguing by-products of exercise such as lactic acid.’ In addition to blood flow, the vibration releases tightness in the muscles for instant and immediate recovery.
Sold on a massage gun? Scroll on to discover our top picks...
Shop: The Best Massage Guns In The Business
Best Massage Guns 2021
1 of 5Power Plate Pulse, £249.95
Summary: One of the OG massage guns, The Pulse is portable handheld massager that delivers on power while being super quiet. Make muscle soreness a thing of the past with this techy tool.Details: There are 6 different attachments to choose from, four vibration levels and a battery time of 4-5 hours.
2 of 5Theragun Elite, £375
Summary: A savvy staple for those seeking to alleviate tension. Thergun Elite features an ergonomic multi-grip handle and several attachments, speeds and settings for a bespoke massage.Details: Choose from five attachments (including the Cone to pinpoint muscle treatment) and various speeds. Power lasts for up to two hours.
3 of 5RENPho Massage Gun, £99.99
Summary: One of the more affordable options on the market, this sleek massage machine has garnered hundreds of 5-star reviews that rave about the impressive resultsDetails: There's a choice of five heads, five speeds and a six-hour battery life which is impressive considering the price point.
4 of 5Power Plate Mini+, £179.95
Summary: 'The Mini+ feels fantastic,' says Pearce, 'you determine the comfort level by how much pressure you apply to the muscle as you self-massage.' Small in size but mighty in power, the Mini+ can slot into a rucksack or sports bag for on-the-go treatment. Details: Two attachments, four vibration levels and a battery run time of 5 hours.
5 of 5Pulseroll Massage Gun, £224.99
Summary: A great option for anyone experiencing tight knots. The various heads really work into the target area to relieve tension and minimise soreness. The downside? It's quite heavy and large in size, so not one to take on-the-go. Details: Six attachments, four speeds and five hours of power before it needs to be recharged.
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