What does a massage mat do? 8 Potential Benefits

Massage mats are an effective solution to relieve muscle tension and stress. They offer a comfortable and relaxing way to massage yourself without much effort and get back on track quickly. While massage furniture allows for deeper tissue work, mat massage primarily focuses on the surface layers of the muscles. Some of the many advantages of such a product are ease of use, small footprint and low cost.

Massage mats can have these 8 benefits

• Stress relief
• Promotion of blood circulation
• Improving muscle tone and flexibility
• Pain relief, especially in chronic pain
• Improving healing processes after injuries
• Relief of muscular tension and tension
• Deeper tissue massages for better relaxation

Which studies show the possible advantages of massage mats?

Many studies have confirmed the benefits of massage mats. A 2013 study in the International Journal of Theraputic Massage & Bodywork showed that massage over a table or mat can reduce pain in patients with fibromyalgia (a chronic pain syndrome). A 2016 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology concluded that regular massage mat sessions can help reduce stress and burnout. Another study in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2017 found that trying a massage mat helped improve well-being and sleep quality. Research was also published in the journal Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, which found that massage-like pressure on muscle tissue improves blood flow and oxygenation, and has a positive effect on symptoms of inflammation. A study was also published in the "International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy" at the beginning of 2017, which examined and confirmed the positive effects of massage mat therapies on neck function.

Overview of the studies in bullet points:

• A 2013 study in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork found that massage over a table or mat reduces pain in patients with fibromyalgia.
• A 2016 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology concluded that regular massage mat sessions can help reduce stress and burnout.
• Another study in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2017 found that trying a massage mat helped improve well-being and sleep quality.
• Research published in the journal Plant Physiology and Biochemistry found that massage-like pressure on muscle tissue improves blood flow and oxygenation and has a positive effect on symptoms of inflammation.
• In early 2017, an article appeared in the "International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy" that examined and confirmed the positive effects of massage mat therapies on neck function.

What should I look out for when buying a massage mat that has the advantages mentioned? 

A good quality mat offers comfortable, ergonomically shaped rolling structures with selective pressure massages, shiatsu massages or 3D rotation technology. Sometimes there are also variants with an integrated water jet or air cushion technology for particularly intensive therapy. In case you want more than just muscle relaxation: There are models with a heating function.

In order to get the most out of your time investment, it is essential to adapt the mat to your needs - neither too hard nor too soft material should be used! The best effect is achieved through regular use in conjunction with massage techniques while lying down and seated-standing movements. 

How do I use a massage mat? 

To use a massage mat, you should make sure that the mat is properly constructed. Before you begin, remove any clothing or blankets that might give you excessive warmth. Lie on your back flat on the mat, making sure your body is completely covered by the mat. Then start the massage slowly, adjusting the pressure to a comfort level for your body. When using the massage devices, also pay attention to appropriate safety precautions, such as correctly tensioning the belt and wearing appropriate protective clothing.