runners might need to have their hamstrings worked extensively. This technique also
concentrates on reducing or eliminating factors that interfere with human perform-
ance such as muscle spasms, tendonitis, and muscle fatigue.
Prior to the athletic event, massage loosens, warms, and readies the muscle for
intensive use, especially when combined with stretching. Besides helping prevent
injury, it can improve performance and endurance. Post-event massage relieves
pain, prevents stiffness, and returns the muscles to their normal state more rapidly.
The use of massage in sports health care is increasing rapidly in both training and
competition. Recreational athletes also have discovered the benefits of sports mas-
sage as a regular part of their workouts.
Rolfing
Developed by the late biochemist Ida P. Rolf, Rolfing(also known as structural inte-
gration) is a system of whole-body manipulation in which the rolfer uses the fingers,
knuckles, and elbows to stretch the fascia, which tends to bind up because of injury,
bad posture, emotional problems, or genetic weaknesses. The fascia is stretched to
release patterns of tension and rigidity and return the body to a state of correct
alignment. Other massage therapists work by applying smooth strokes over muscles;
rolfers press deeply into muscle tissue and fascia to release them. Clients are asked to
breathe deeply during the session and visualize the muscle lengthening. The new
Rolfing method is gentler and far less painful than the original style of treatment.
Practitioners use a broad range of touch and pressure from feather-light to deep
massage. When performed with the right sensitivity, even deep and heavy pressure
may not be painful.
Executive Massage
Executive massage is done with the client fully dressed, seated on a portable mas-
sage chair. The face is supported by a doughnut-shaped pillow, which allows for
easy breathing. The sessions, which last 10–20 minutes, involve massage of the
head, neck, back, arms, and hands. This type of massage is often provided in the
workplace or in shopping malls. The purpose of the massage is to decrease tension,
reduce stress, and enhance people’s adaptive capabilities.
Thai Massage
Some people call Thai massage passive yoga, as the receiver is fully clothed, lies on
a futon, and is deeply stretched, compressed, and gently rocked. The whole body of
the therapist is used to treat the whole body of the receiver. The experience feels like
a combination of yoga, shiatsu, and meditation. Point pressure and kneading of the
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