Some preliminary observations of the effects of sports massage on heat distribution of lower limb muscles during a graded exercise test

There is a lack of scientific evidence to confirm the efficacy of massage for promoting both physiological and psychological preparation and recovery after exercise. The purpose of the present study is to analyse the effect of pre event sports massage (effleurage) on sporting performance. Untrained subjects completed a sub maximal graded exercise test. Subjects were tested on three separate occasions, following a 10-minute massage, 30-minute massage or no massage at all (Control). Physiological and psychological parameters were recorded prior to and following massage and pre and post exercise testing. The results of the present study show Heart Rates (HR) decreased following massage (P < 0.01), whilst Skin Temperature (T _sk) increased compared to controls (P < 0.0001). During exercise Volume of Oxygen consumed (VO2) increased, the increase was greater in the 10 and 30-minute massage groups compared to controls (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001). After exercise HR increased in all groups, there was no difference in HR between the groups following exercise. By the end of the exercise test T _sk for the massaged groups had returned to the pre massage baseline. As expected the lactate concentration increased for all groups following exercise no difference was detectable between the groups. The above findings provide some support for the benefit of pre-event massage in preparing an athlete for competition.