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Sit back, relax, and let these gadgets do all the recovery work for you.
Photo:Shape / Jhett Thompson
The trouble is, you often need to be willing to drop some major dough on a professional masseuse.
We analyze effectiveness, comfort, ease of use, stall force, portability, and value.
These tests were conducted by marathon runners, personal trainers, and wellness aficionados.
PHOTO: Amazon
We then contacted personal trainers and physical therapists to ensure that our findings correlated with their standards.
Below, read on for the best massage guns from Therabody, Hyperice, Renpho, and more.
“It absolutely helps post-workout, especially if you are sore,” says one tester.
PHOTO: Shape / Jhett Thompson
“It relieved tension in my neck and shoulders and helped immensely when I strained my calf muscle.
This allowed us to target different areas without any awkward twists.
The dampener was our favorite attachment to use, but the cone came in a quick second.
We found that it’s great to use when honing in on specific larger muscle groups like the quads.
What Testers Say
“This massage gun is very effective.
It absolutely helps post-workout, especially if you are sore.
It relieved tension in my neck and shoulders and helped immensely when I strained my calf muscles.
Testers found that this machine stayed quiet and allowed for no-nonsense recovery while watching Netflix no subtitles needed.
“I rely on this massage gun during marathon training season,” says one tester.
There are also fewer attachments than the Theragun Prime.
I feel a huge difference when using it because my range of motion increases.”
Think of near-infrared LED light therapy, heat therapy, cold therapy, and even a breathwork program.
The LCD screen is clear and easy to use, with quickstart options for popular programs.
Our editors' biggest quibble is that the cold therapy attachment is sold as an add-on.
“This massage gun is best for anyone who likes very, very intense deep tissue pressure.
It checks all the boxes and then some.”
It offers six heads and six speeds for an extremely customizable recovery routine.
One editor used the Renpho before her workouts and found that she recovered quicker and performed better.
However, the design of this affordable massage gun seemed a bit off.
Certain buttons seemed to be placed counterintuitively, like the power button next to the speed buttons.
While this isnt a dealbreaker, it does mean that the Renpho takes longer to get acquainted with.
“Overall, my muscles felt more relaxed after using the Theragun Relief.
It was the right fit for my everyday aches and pains.”
With three speed tweaks and three attachments, theTheragun Minioffers a level of customization that isnt overwhelming.
Its alsosoportable and slides easily into a gym bag or purse.
“It’s quiet enough to not be distracting or annoying.”
If this sounds like you, Steindl recommends investing in a heavy-duty machine like this.
Multiple speed prefs allow for customization of recovery sessions based on the intensity of workouts and specific muscle needs.
She also recommends stocking up on attachments to target muscles of all sizes.
Those who arent touchscreen fans should opt for the 4th Generation instead.
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It’s easy to hold and use, and I appreciate the carry case.
I feel so much calmer and relaxed after using this massage gun.”
“It was very easy to take this thing everywhere,” says one tester.
PHOTO: Shape / Tamara Staples
“The portability is ideal.
There’s an adjustment period, as it’s difficult to learn how to use it.
These devices typically utilize a high-frequency, low-amplitude mechanical motion to deliver rapid, concentrated pulses to targeted musculature.
These pulses stimulate blood flow,reoxygenating and delivering nutrients to your muscles.
This may help your tissues recover more quickly.
They alsopromote lymphatic drainage.
Almost everyone can benefit from owning a massage gun, according to Steindl.
Professional and everyday athletes can use their massage guns to bookend their workouts.
That said, she recommends consulting with your doctor before you begin using one of these tools.
Remember this: The higher the stall force, the more powerful the massage gun.
Good news: You canslide your massage guns into your checked bag or carry-on.
That said, its worth carefully reading the brand website of whatever massage gun you choose.
Avoid placing the attachment directly onto the muscle, and avoid bones.
Why Trust Shape
- Kells McPhillipsis a health and wellness writer living in Los Angeles.
a meta-analysis and systematic review.J Int Med Res.
2017;28(2):117-130. doi:10.3233/BME-171661
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Shape / Jhett Thompson
Shape / Jhett Thompson
