8 Best Workout Recovery Massage Tools
We all love massages, right? A physical therapist friend of mine told me that we should all be maintaining our bodies with consistent exercise and massage. When in your 30s, get a massage once a month, 40s twice a month, and 50+ once a week. Sounds awesome to be able to do that, doesn’t it? But also, expensive…
So over the years, I’ve built out a pretty useful set of massage and recovery tools at my house to be able to work on my body on my own time without much expense. Here’s a list to get your mind turning. There are so many products out there so use this as a starting point and explore.
1. Foam Roller
Everyone says it, most people have used one in a gym or class by now, but if you haven’t, you absolutely need to start here. Put on the TV or podcast at the end of the day and roll out your muscles and bones.
Check out this link to get yourself one.
And here’s some other resources on how to use the foam roller.
Even if you’ve been rolling for years, I am always finding new ways to relieve tension, so it’s worth click. Pro tip: if it’s painful, it’s working. Breathe deep and you’ll sleep soundly :)
2. Rumble Roller
Let’s get ready to RUMBLEEE!!!
Just look at the bumps on this thing… it’s a lot more intense than the regular foam roller i mention above. But since I love deep tissue and really hitting the tension spots hard, this tool has been my best friend.
3. Spike Ball
When I travel, I'm usually getting into an activity, even if just putting miles on my shoes all day sightseeing. I always pack this spike ball or a lacrosse ball. Keep it as a carry-on and you won’t be dying on those long rides.
4. Yoga Mat
Yoga mats are the foundation. Classes are great to get some guidance but everything can also be done at home. Here’s a basic routine called the sun salutation, which is a very easy and a great start to the day. You’re body will thank you!
Even without an entire sequence, a yoga mat is great to lay down for exercise or rolling out.
Try this mat on the left for something inexpensive, but know that yoga mats last a long time and the padding and grip of a nicer mat is worth the investment.
If you’re looking for an investment, here’s a great mat on the right.
5. Thera-cane
Since the instant success of this product years back, there have been so many copies in the market. But just know that no one can copy the exact dimensions of the patented Thera-cane.
Check out these examples of how it’s used to pinpoint that exact knot in your back or tightness in your thigh with using a simple and effective leverage design.
6. Massage Pad
This electronic massage pad is brilliantly cheap and highly effective. I use it for my calves, hips, back, arms. The rotating nobs (heated or unheated) can pinpoint wherever you have tension = a gold mine for under $50.
Click here and get one now. You’ll thank me later when you take it on a road trip because it comes with a car plug adaptor. I’ve always wanted to take it on a long plane ride…
7. Massage Table
For Hollis’ birthday, I bought a massage table and it’s been an awesome addition to the house. For under $150, you can get a solid table. There’s nothing worse than giving a massage with your head cocked sideways on the floor. It folds up and can store in the closet. Here’s to long-lasting marriages :)
This is the one I got off Amazon.
I hope that helps get you in the right direction with your recovery. Don’t wait for it to be too late. These tools are here to ensure you can keep at it!