8/07/2009

Massage & Weight Loss

I have had some clients ask if massage will help them loose weight, look thinner, or reduce cellulite. If this was a direct cause and effect independent of proper diet and exercise, I would probably be able to retire by now. Massage can assist with weight loss behaviors in promoting the above.

I am only going to discuss healhty weightloss as that is the only kind I will promote. When combined with proper nutrition and exercise, massage can aid in the weightloss process.

When increasing your frequency and load in the gym, it's very important to increase your recovery and self-care. Most don't. You need to have your muscles relaxed and elastic to be able to get the most out of your workout. If you're tight, the body is not functioning as well and it is going to affect your form and the amount you can get out of the workout. Massage will make sure that you do not accumulate too many knots, trigger points, or tight bands of muscle fiber.

Massage also stimulates the circulatory and lymphatic systems. While you are working out and eating healthier, massage will aid in delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs, as well as eliminating more lactic acid and other metabolic waste products. This is how it cleans out the "toxins".

Massage will, over time, make your muscles and skin more supple, elastic, and tone. By no means is it a magic wand..... So if you pair regular massage with a proper diet and exercise regime that you actually follow, than massage can aid in having a healthier looking body.