Should I Get a Massage Before or After a Marathon?

If you're gearing up for a marathon, you’ve probably wondered if getting a massage beforehand or afterward will make a difference. While both options can support your body, the timing matters—and I’m here to help you figure out what’s best for you.

So, should you get a massage before or after your marathon? Let’s break it down!

Massage Before the Marathon

I get it. The idea of a pre-race massage sounds dreamy, right? It’s like hitting the refresh button for your muscles before you put them through a big challenge. But, here's the thing: pre-race massages are meant to loosen up any tight spots without overstimulating the muscles.

Pros:

• Relieves tightness and improves circulation
• Prepares your muscles for the stress ahead
• Eases mental tension (because we all know marathon nerves are real!)

Cons:

• Too much pressure or intensity could leave your muscles feeling fatigued or sore
• Timing matters—you don't want a deep massage the day before your race (trust me on this!)

If you're planning to get a massage before the marathon, go for something light and relaxing, like a gentle stretch session or a focus on your calves and quads. A little bit of release can feel like magic. But avoid anything too intense that might leave you feeling “worked” the day of the race.

Oh, and don’t forget about Aescape. If you’re tight on time, our AI-powered massage table is a perfect option for a quick, tailored pre-race massage. You get to pick the intensity and focus areas (hello, hamstrings!), so you can feel energized without worrying about soreness later.

Massage After the Marathon

Okay, now let's talk about post-race recovery. This is where massage truly shines. You’ve just pushed your body to the limit—your legs are screaming, your shoulders are tense, and your hips are probably ready to give up. This is the perfect time to let a soothing massage do its thing.

Pros:

• Reduces muscle soreness (recovery is a must!)
• Boosts circulation to flush out toxins
• Helps with flexibility, mobility, and relaxation

Cons:

• Avoid getting massaged too soon after the race—your muscles need a little time to settle down first. Think 24-48 hours post-race.

After the marathon, your muscles are fatigued, so a massage can promote better blood flow and help ease that post-race tension. Aescape’s leg day cool-down is perfect for this—focusing on those tired calves, quads, and hamstrings to help you recover faster. The best part? You’re in control of how much pressure you want.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Ultimately, whether you get a massage before or after your marathon comes down to what feels right for you. If you're doing it before, keep it light and gentle, and focus on calming nerves. If it's post-race, give your muscles a little time to settle and then go for a deep, rejuvenating massage to speed up recovery. Either way, your body will thank you!

And remember, regular massages can be an essential part of your wellness routine, not just something you do after a race. So, whether you’re prepping for your next marathon or just need some tension relief, give Aescape a try for a truly customized experience that targets your specific needs.

Let us know you enjoyed this read by booking a massage and using code BLOG for $10 off your first session (30 minutes and up!). Wanna share your thoughts? We’d love to hear from you. Give us a shout at @LetsAescape on social!