There are a lot of ways to loosen up knots and help speed recovery after strenuous exercise, including foam rollers, massage balls, or a professional massage therapist. But one tool that’s gaining popularity among athletes is the massage gun, which uses forceful vibrations to hit muscle tissue at high frequencies. While a massage gun may not be a substitute for getting a deep tissue or trigger point massage from a professional, it’s an effective and cheaper alternative that can help athletes target troublesome muscle groups at home.
Most percussion massage guns follow the same formula: They’re either shaped like a power drill or have the triangular build made famous by Theragun (there are some exceptions, including the more budget-friendly Theragun Mini). More premium designs also tend to set their handles at an angle to alleviate the strain on your wrist as you’re using it.
Therabody’s latest Pro is a more lightweight option that combines the brand’s patented design with five speeds, an ergonomic grip, and app integration. But it’s still pricier than most other options here, and its lowest setting might be too intense for some people who are new to percussive massage therapy.
The Hyperice Apex is another lightweight choice that features six unique head attachments for targeting different muscle groups, plus a three-hour battery life and a convenient carrying case. It’s a bit louder than some other models, and it doesn’t have as much stall force at its highest setting, but it’s still a great option for newcomers to this type of therapy or those who want something that can be used while on the go. best massage gun