1. Keep the Massage Light
Every athlete should incorporate message into her regular routines. A pre-massage therapist should know the athletes and the style of running or competing at the event. The therapist also should be familiar with various physical challenges that will be presented during the event. The pre-event massage can be given sometime the day before the event or as soon as 30 minutes before it begins. A massage doesn't replace an athlete's regular warm-up, but rather compliments it by increasing flexibility and warming up the muscles. It also can help to relieve tension and puts the athlete in a better frame of mind. Give a light massage before an event, because deep-tissue massaging irritates the muscles and takes longer to heal.
2. Just the Basics
Talk to your athlete before you even begin the massage. In addition to knowing the sport, you need to be familiar with the person receiving the bodywork. Find out how often he has massages so you can gauge how he might react to the movements. Try to get a feel for his anxiety level so that you can incorporate soothing massage techniques to lower his stress, allowing him to remain flexible and perform at a higher level. Don't insist on pushing the athlete beyond his comfort level. This is not the time to sell your extra services or other techniques. Don't tell him if you feel a lot of tension in his muscles while you are giving the massage. Athletes don't need any negative input before a big competition.
3. Slow and Easy Motion
Start with a very light circular motion. Don't even touch areas that are too sensitive and may hurt the athlete when she needs all her strength. You can work out big kinks with the post-event massage and later in the week when she has more time to let his muscles heal. Use brisk invigorating strokes as you feel your way through her body and have warmed it up with the light movements. Apply and hold light pressure on the points that will be used the hardest during the event. Compression can help get the blood flowing to those specific muscles and the quick motions following the pressure move the blood and oxygen through the body. Help the athlete loosen up with range of motion massage. Lift and turn hands, arms, ankles and shoulder joints while you rub them down. Move the joints carefully and without pressure. You want to avoid injury at this time even if you believe you are not doing your best work.
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