Buzz
Many athletes have turned to massage guns in their pursuit of more profound and intense massage experiences to aid recovery. However, does a percussive massager outperform other self-massage techniques, such as foam rolling? What is the actual experience of using one like?
To begin, let’s explore the science behind sports massage: Most agree that if a massage improves how you feel, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re questioning whether massages provide specific physiological benefits, there’s no strong evidence to support this. Contrary to popular belief, massages do not “flush lactic acid” from muscles (lactic acid isn’t responsible for post-workout soreness, after all). Still, some studies indicate that massages may enhance flexibility, and many users report reduced soreness.
Take this recent meta-analysis, for instance; while it found no proof that massages enhance athletic performance, it did suggest they might improve overall well-being. Is this enough to warrant spending on massages or dedicating gym time to rolling on a lacrosse ball? Personally, I’d argue no—I’ve foam rolled only a handful of times and don’t feel deprived without it. However, if massages bring you comfort, there’s no harm in incorporating them into your routine.
How does using a massage gun feel?
If you’ve watched the advertisements, you likely understand how these devices operate: The gun repeatedly strikes you with its fast-moving, rubber-tipped head. This alone might help you decide: If you think, “That sounds amazing,” then a massage gun might be for you. If your reaction is, “Why would I want to hit myself?” then it’s probably not your thing.
I recently tested a HyperVolt massage gun. As someone who falls into the “why punch myself” category, my experience matched my expectations. On my forearms and shins, it was painful; on my hamstrings, it felt ticklish. It did provide some relief on my back, but only when lying face-down on a bed and having someone else operate the gun. At that point, wouldn’t a traditional massage be just as effective?
Aisha Jordan, a staff writer at Mytour, holds the opposite view. She owns a massage gun and adores it so much that she named it the most crucial tool for surviving the challenges of 2020. “I often develop tight knots in my shoulders, and the Theragun’s powerful pulses relieve them when other massagers fail,” she explains.
One thing to keep in mind about massage guns is that you’re typically using them on yourself, which can feel cumbersome. The HyperVolt model I tried weighs 2.5 pounds, which feels quite heavy when you’re holding it at precise angles during a 15-minute session. Aisha’s Theragun mini, on the other hand, is a full pound lighter. Larger models often have stronger motors, so you’re sacrificing ease of use for greater intensity.
A standout feature of the model I tested was its app integration, which synced with Apple Health to recommend massage routines based on my logged workouts. Opening the app and starting a video would guide me through targeting specific body parts and selecting the appropriate attachments. If you prefer a structured approach to self-massage—and don’t mind some maneuvering to reach different muscle groups—a massage gun could be a great fit. As for me, I’ll stick to enjoying the absence of self-inflicted punches.
