The Do’s and Don’ts of Exercising After a Massage

Getting a massage can be an incredibly beneficial way to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. However, if you're someone who follows a strict workout routine, you may be wondering whether it's safe to exercise after a massage. While movement and stretching can be beneficial, there are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure you get the best results.

Do’s:

✅ Listen to Your Body – After a massage, your body may feel looser, but it can also be more sensitive. Pay attention to how you feel before jumping into any strenuous exercise.

✅ Engage in Light Activity – If you must exercise, opt for gentle movements like walking, stretching, or yoga. These low-impact activities will keep your body active without overloading your muscles.

✅ Stay Hydrated – Massages can stimulate the lymphatic system and help flush out toxins, so it’s crucial to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and aid recovery.

✅ Allow Time to Rest – A massage can sometimes leave your muscles feeling fatigued. Giving yourself an opportunity to recover before exercising can help prevent injuries and maximise the benefits of the treatment.

Don’ts:

❌ Avoid Intense Workouts – High-intensity exercises like weightlifting, running, or HIIT can put too much strain on your muscles after a massage, increasing the risk of injury.

❌ Don’t Ignore Soreness – If your massage therapist worked out deep knots, you might experience some soreness. Pushing through an intense workout can exacerbate discomfort and delay recovery.

❌ Avoid Heavy Lifting – Your muscles might be in a relaxed state, making them more vulnerable to strain. Give yourself time before returning to heavy resistance training.

❌ Skip Alcohol and Caffeine – These can dehydrate you and counteract the benefits of the massage. Stick to water or herbal teas instead.

Final Thoughts

While it might be tempting to hit the gym right after a massage, it’s best to let your body recover before engaging in intense physical activity. If you do choose to exercise, opt for gentle movements and listen to your body’s signals. By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can maximise the benefits of your massage and maintain a healthy fitness routine.

This post was fact-checked and reviewed by a qualified Massage Therapist and Pilates Instructor to ensure accuracy and reliability based on current knowledge and expertise. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to get in touch – we’re here to help!