Massage Envy experts answer your questions

Q: Can massage therapy enhance my exercise program?

A: Yes, it can! Massage therapy aids in overall blood circulation in the body. Increasing circulation means that more oxygen is delivered to the muscles to allow for longer endurance periods and toxins are removed quicker, which reduces recovery time and residual pain. Massage therapy also has been shown to improve range of motion which creates more flexibility in the body. Increased flexibility allows you to perform movements of the exercise more effectively and with greater ease. Massage therapy also improves overall muscle and joint strength which, along with increased flexibility, helps to prevent injuries to muscles, joints and tendons.

Whether you are just getting started on an exercise program or are revising your current exercise routines, keep in mind that any new exercise activities require the body to engage in a variety of movements to perform effectively. The new movements introduced to the body will create different stress and strain on muscles and joints, which can often create increased stiffness and pain. Integrating massage therapy sessions into your regular schedule will enhance and benefit any exercise routine.

Massage therapy can benefit everyone from the elite athlete to the casual walker or weekend warrior. All that hard work won't pay if our muscles and over-stressed and strained. Receiving massage therapy on a regular basis helps us maintain overall health and wellness and will keep us enjoying our favorite exercise activities.

—C.G. Funk, vice president of industry relations and product development for Massage Envy