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Certain fitness trends have come and gone, but one trend that is here to stay is recovery. When you can’t get to your nearest wellness spa or locale, at-home recovery tools like massage guns come in handy.
Massage guns use percussive therapy, which is rapid vibration, to relieve muscle tension and ease pain. “Percussive massage guns are beneficial for improving circulation, reducing muscle soreness, and helping the body transition out of a state of tension,” says Sarah Cash Crawford, a physical therapist and founder of Anchor Wellness and WAVE Physical Therapy & Pilates. “The repetitive pulses stimulate blood flow to targeted areas, which can support recovery and improve mobility. It’s less about breaking up knots and more about helping the body relax and restore more normal movement patterns.”
Heather Andersen, founder of New York Pilates, says that massage guns are widely used in her Pilates studio for recovery and muscle support. “Massage guns are a great supplement to physical therapy or when you’re actively rehabbing an injury,” she explains. “They’re great for self-massage and maintenance because they give you leverage, help you reach areas that are harder to access, like your neck and back, and provide more impact than simply rolling out.”
If you’re looking to upgrade your wellness and fitness routine and try a massage gun, we’ve found the top devices, beloved by editors and experts, that are bound to relieve tension and become your favorite workout accessories.
1) Hyperice Hypervolt 32) Therabody Theragun Prime Plus
Therabody
Therabody is known for its bevy of percussive devices—spanning from the body to the face—and its most advanced Prime Plus is a fan favorite. The smart device can connect with the brand’s app to guide users through post-workout treatments and with wearables to track recovery. But it doesn’t stop there: the device boasts heated massage and can connect to a cold attachment (not included) that vibrates while providing relaxing contrast therapy.
Speed settings: 5
Battery life: 150 minutes (dependent on attachments used)
Number of attachments: 3
Weight: 1.95 lbs
ProsIncludes heated therapyConnects to wearables and AI-powered app3) Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini Massage Gun4) Theragun Mini (3rd Generation)5) TOLOCO Massage Gun6) Hydragun Massage Gun7) RENPHO Mini Massage Gun with HeatFrequently Asked QuestionsWhen Should You Use a Massage Gun?
While massage guns are used for recovery, many experts recommend using them before workouts to prepare the muscles, in addition to after workouts, which focuses more on muscle healing. “Before a workout, for about 30 to 60 seconds per muscle group, to help awaken the muscles, encourage circulation, optimize strengthening, and reduce stiffness,” says Kevyn Zeller, founder of KZ Pilates+ in New York. “They can also be used after exercise as part of a recovery ritual to promote relaxation and help minimize soreness.”
Since the device can put you into a relaxation trance, it may be tempting to use a massage gun for hours at a time, but Zeller warns against overuse. “As with most recovery tools, moderation is key. It’s best to avoid bony areas, inflamed or injured tissue, and prolonged use in one spot,” she adds.
How Do You Use a Massage Gun?
Devices have multiple speed settings and attachments for more targeted treatments. However, Crawford suggests a lower-intensity setting when using the device pre-workout and building up to more intense levels to address soreness and tightness post-workout. “It’s important to keep the device moving and focus on larger muscle groups rather than staying in one spot for too long,” she says. “Consistency matters more than duration.”
What Should You Look For When Choosing a Massage Gun?
There’s no shortage of expert-approved massage guns on the market, but all experts agree that adjustable speed settings and a substantial battery life are two top aspects to look for. The smaller devices, like the Therabody Mini and Ekrin Athletics Mini guns, are best for those who have wrist sensitivity. Crawford notes that if a device ever feels too aggressive or difficult to use, it’s best to stop using it.
Since consistency is key, the most important thing is to find a device that fits into your wellness and workout lifestyle. “Ultimately, the best device is the one that feels intuitive to use—comfortable, effective, and suited to your body’s needs,” Zeller says.
Meet the Experts:
Heather Andersen is the co-founder of New York Pilates
Kevyn Zeller is the founder of KZ Pilates+
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