You don’t have to be an endurance athlete to use a percussive therapy device, though they’re very popular among triathletes, ultramarathoners, and the like. Massage guns, which deliver a combo of rapid, repetitive pressure and vibrations to engage both the soft tissue and the outer skin, will relax muscles whether they’re sore from running or hunching over a desk all day long.
Percussive Therapy Device Options
An ideal choice weighs less than three pounds, has a two-hour-plus battery life and a maximum noise level of 55–65 decibels, and comes with four or more attachments.
If you’re in the market for one, things to consider include:
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Price
Massage guns range from under $100 to $600 or more.
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Need and Purpose
Look at higher-end models if you’re an athlete or are treating a condition like sciatica or tendinitis.
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Mechanics
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Percussion Force
Industry standard is 30–50 pounds of force for moderate intensity.
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Stroke Length
Industry standard is 13–16 mm stroke length (how much the head can move) for deep tissue massage.
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Speed
Look for more than three speeds with 1,400–2,800 percussions per minute.
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Ergonomics
The jigsaw and triangular frames found on pricier models offer top-notch ergonomics, but the standard handheld model is also ergonomically sound.
