For most people who train regularly, a sports massage every 2–4 weeks works well. If you are in a heavy training block or building towards an event, every 1–2 weeks can help. If you train more casually, once a month or whenever things feel tight is usually enough.
The right answer depends on how much you train, how your body is coping and what you are training for. Here is how I help clients in Winchester work it out.
IT DEPENDS ON YOUR TRAINING LOAD.
The more you ask of your body, the more it helps to check in regularly. As a rough guide:
Training 2–3 times a week: every 4 weeks, or as needed
Training 4–6 times a week (CrossFit, HYROX, running, team sport): every 2–3 weeks
Heavy training block or event prep: every 1–2 weeks in the lead-up
After an event: one session in the following week to help you feel ready to train again
These are starting points, not rules. Some people feel great on less, while others with a history of niggles do better with more regular sessions.
WHY REGULAR BEATS ONE-OFF.
Most people book a massage when something already hurts. That works, but regular sessions do more:
Tightness gets dealt with before it changes how you move
Recurring problem areas get spotted early, before they turn into time off training
Each session builds on the last because I know your body and your training
You get ongoing advice on mobility, load and recovery, not just treatment on the day
Think of it like servicing a car rather than waiting for the warning light.
30 OR 60 MINUTES?
A 30-minute session (£40) suits a regular top-up focused on one or two areas, such as calves and hips for runners or shoulders and upper back for lifters. A 60-minute session (£60) suits a full-body treatment, a first visit, or times when you have a few things going on at once.
Many regular clients alternate: a longer session once a month with shorter top-ups in between.
MAKING IT AFFORDABLE.
If you know you will come regularly, a block of six sessions is the easiest way to stay consistent and save money. A block of 6 x 30 minutes is £210 and a block of 6 x 60 minutes is £300, saving up to £60 compared with booking individually.
Your sessions sit as credit in your account, so you simply book online whenever you need one. There is no need to plan all six dates up front.
WHEN MASSAGE IS NOT ENOUGH.
Massage is great for recovery and managing tightness, but it does not fix everything. If the same area keeps flaring up, or you have sharp pain, swelling, weakness or pain that is getting worse, it is worth having it assessed. In that case a movement assessment or a structured rehab plan will usually get you further than more massage.
QUICK ANSWERS.
Can I have a sports massage every week? Yes, if you are training hard or preparing for an event. Lighter, more targeted sessions work best at that frequency.
Should I train after a sports massage? Light training is usually fine. Leave heavy or high-intensity sessions until the next day if you can, especially after deeper work.
How long before an event should I book? Two to five days before is ideal, so you feel loose without any lingering soreness on the day.
SPORTS MASSAGE IN WINCHESTER.
Training & Treatment is based inside CrossFit Wessex on Wykeham Industrial Estate in Winnall, Winchester, with free parking on site. I work with runners, HYROX and CrossFit athletes, team sport players and anyone who wants to keep training without niggles holding them back.
Book a 30 or 60-minute sports massage, or save with a block of six. Not sure what you need? Book a free consultation and we will work it out together.
