Massages prior to racing

Derek

This question was in regards to Coach Ps pod cast last week.  He suggested not getting a massage within the two weeks prior to racing.  I was wondering what consequences could arise from this.  I would normally not get a massage in the last week prior to racing but, this past Saturday i strained/pulled a muscle in my left buttock during my ride.  Got a massage today and was comtemplating getting another one to work on my hip possibly next monday (only day my massage guy was in).  I'm racing Placid on the 25th.  Any thoughts?

Derek

jpriore

I'm going this Thursday - probably wouldn't go race week (usually some residual soreness, lactic acid after for a day or two max) but over a week out, I'm not sure what the harm would be - I missed the conference call so I don't know Coach P's rationale behind it

Spokane_Al

I have no opinion or knowledge concerning massage prior to race do but do know that Active Release Technique therapy just prior to a race can be a good thing. I have had very good luck with ART in resolving issues prior to races. And, at least at the CDA IM, there is always an ART tent where a number of pros and fast age groupers can be found getting issues rectified in the days prior to the race.

Carrie Chavez

If I were you I would get the massage. I get massages done on my painful stiff areas before races. Not too deep, just enough to loosen the area up and increase ROM.

Remind your massage therapist that this is race week and to be cautious.

Carrie Chavez PT

Derek

thanks for the feeback guys, i think i will get the massage and just have my massage guy take it easy on me.

Paul Hough

I had one each week for the 4 weeks prior to IMCDA. The last one was Monday...6 days before by my regular LMT. What I would not do is get one in the 3 days before the event, especially at the expo massage by a therapist who has no experience with you.