Massage guns have been super popular over the past few years. You’ve probably seen them on social media or at the gym. But do they actually work, or are they just another fitness trend? Let’s find out. Credit: Envato Elements/ dariavoronchuk1   What Is a Massage Gun? A massage gun (also called a percussion massager or percussive therapy device) is a handheld device designed to deliver rapid, targeted pulses of pressure deep into your muscle tissue. These pulses mimic deep-tissue massage by applying targeted pressure and vibration. They usually come with different speed settings and interchangeable heads (round heads for large muscles, flat heads for dense muscle areas, bullet heads for pinpoint trigger points, and forked heads for areas like the spine or Achilles tendon) to reach various parts of your body. Some models even offer heat settings or built-in timers. They're cordless, portable, and rechargeable. What Do Massage Guns...

Muscle tightness in the legs can lead to stiffness, soreness, and poor mobility. LIke a foam roller, it can help release knots and help with any tension. The best part is that it can access hard-to-reach areas. Here’s how to use one on your legs. Credit: Envato Elements/ Svetlana_Lazhko   What Is a Massage Ball? A massage ball is a firm, compact ball made for self-myofascial release (SMR). It helps release tight muscles and fascia (the tissue surrounding your muscles). Massage balls come in different sizes and densities, but all serve the same purpose—to apply direct pressure to problem areas. For leg muscles, most people use: A lacrosse ball (firm and good for deep pressure) A rubber massage ball (slightly softer, better for beginners) A spiky massage ball (helps stimulate circulation) Benefits of Using a Massage Ball on Legs It helps release muscle knots and trigger points It improves blood...

Massage therapy is a useful tool for managing stress, easing muscle pain, and improving your overall health. But how often should you get one so that you get the full benefits? Credit: Envato Elements/ ImageSource   Why People Get Massages It helps to understand why people get massages in the first place. The reason matters because it affects how frequently you should schedule sessions. Here are the most common reasons: Stress relief and relaxation Chronic pain or tension (back, neck, shoulders, etc.) Sports recovery or muscle soreness Posture issues or work-related strain Injury recovery or physical therapy Better sleep or circulation How Often Should You Get a Massage? If you’re just looking for basic guidance, here’s a simple breakdown: For stress relief or general wellness: 1–2 times per month These sessions help lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and promote better sleep and mood. If you have a high-stress lifestyle, regular...

Swedish massage is one of the most common and well-known types of massage therapy. It focuses on relaxing the body, improving blood flow, and easing muscle tension. Here’s a more detailed guide. Credit: Envato Elements/ YuriArcursPeopleImages   What Makes a Massage “Swedish”? Swedish massage is the most common type of massage you’ll find in spas and wellness clinics. It’s designed to relax the entire body and improve circulation using specific strokes and pressure. It is generally gentle and is often recommended for people who are new to massage therapy. There are five basic techniques in Swedish massage: Effleurage: These are long, gliding strokes using the hands. They help warm up the muscles and relax the body. Petrissage: This involves kneading and rolling the muscles. It helps release tension and improves circulation. Friction: These are deep, circular movements using the thumbs or fingers. They help break down knots in the muscles....