Question 1

What is sports massage and how is it different from regular massage?

Accepted Answer

Sports massage is a targeted therapeutic approach designed for athletes and active individuals. It combines deep tissue techniques, stretching, trigger point therapy, and neuromuscular work to address sports-specific injuries, performance limitations, and recovery demands. Unlike general relaxation massage, sports massage is goal-oriented — your RMT works toward a specific outcome whether that's reducing injury downtime, improving range of motion, or optimizing recovery between training sessions.

Question 2

When should I book a sports massage — before or after training?

Accepted Answer

Both have distinct purposes. Pre-event sports massage (24–48 hours before competition) uses lighter, stimulating techniques to warm tissue and enhance neuromuscular activation without causing micro-fatigue. Post-event massage (within 24–72 hours of training or competition) focuses on recovery — flushing metabolic waste, reducing DOMS, and identifying areas of injury before they become chronic. Regular maintenance sessions between training blocks are the most effective long-term strategy.

Question 3

Is sports massage covered by my extended health benefits?

Accepted Answer

Yes — because sports massage at W11 Therapy is performed by Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) licensed under the CMTBC, it qualifies for coverage under virtually all BC extended health benefit plans. W11 Therapy directly bills Sun Life, Manulife, Pacific Blue Cross, Green Shield, Canada Life, and ICBC. Bring your policy number and we handle the rest.

Question 4

How often should athletes book sports massage?

Accepted Answer

Training load determines the ideal frequency. Athletes in high-volume training phases typically benefit from weekly sessions. During lighter training or maintenance phases, bi-weekly or monthly sessions are sufficient. For injury management, more frequent sessions (2–3 per week initially) accelerate recovery. Your RMT will recommend a schedule based on your sport, training volume, and current injury status.

Question 5

Can sports massage help prevent injuries?

Accepted Answer

Yes — consistent sports massage reduces injury risk by identifying and treating tissue restrictions, adhesions, and movement compensations before they progress to injury. Many professional athletes and sports teams incorporate regular massage therapy specifically for injury prevention. Your W11 Therapy RMT will assess your biomechanics and flag early warning signs during each session.

Question 6

What should I do before and after a sports massage session?

Accepted Answer

Before: hydrate well, avoid heavy training immediately before your session, and be ready to discuss your training schedule and current complaints. After: drink plenty of water, avoid intense training for 24 hours, and expect mild soreness if deeper work was performed. Light movement and stretching the day after your session is beneficial.

Sports Massage in Vancouver — W11 Therapy

What sports massage treats

Insurance & ICBC coverage