You need a Gun....a massage gun
But why do I need a massage gun?
The best benefit I get from a massage gun is how it magically eases tension and soreness after a workout. This puts a huge delay in muscle stiffness and in retrospect it accelerates warm up right before my workout(s). Most of the products come with 4-6 interchangeable heads to target certain areas. I’ll post an illustrated image below to see the different functions for various attachments. Percussive therapy is the best way to show your muscles some love.
What Key Features should I look for?
Price
Battery Run-Time
Noise
Quality
Price
-Price first right? What is realistically within my budget? Obviously price ties with quality as well. The more you invest the better the product right? Yes and No. I have the Theragun Pro and it costs a little more than your other massage guns but it is REALLY loud. However, I always live with zero battery life on every device I carry. Portable with external batteries are a must for me. I like that the battery in the Theragun Pro lasts 6 hours, comes with 2 portable batteries, and it’s cordless.
Noise
Noise for hearing loss safety reasons should weigh in on importance as well. Like I mentioned earlier, I like my Theragun Pro as it serves its purpose in some features it has, but it is definitely too loud. It is a whooping 75 decibels. Yikes!!!!!! It’s the equivalent of the noise a hair dryer or dishwasher makes! That is pretty loud especially if it’s right next to your ear! Click here to see a simple summary from the Hearing Health Foundation (a 501c3 Tax exempt organization), on what a decibel is and how loud is too loud.
Speed
I’m not extra picky about speed settings, but some people like a good amount of options. Vibration frequency is measured in strokes/per minute. For my next gun I will pay attention to stroke length as well, that is the distance of which the head travels back with each revolution. The main difference between brushless or brushed drill motors is that the brushed variants are made of carbon while the brushless units use magnets to generate power. For this reason, brushless motors are better adapted, generate no friction, produce less heating and provide better performance.
In summary,
In summary consider price, noise, battery run time and quality when purchasing a percussion massage gun. Oh and weight too. It’s kind of difficult to hit the traps and shoulders when the gun is heavy and you’re already depleted from a heavy upper body day.
According to consumer reports, from an ergonomic perspective, guns shaped like a triangle were easier to hold in a variety of positions. Adjustable and longer devices were better at reaching the upper and middle back.
Aside from the loud noise though, I still do love my Theragun Pro. It is a STRONG gun.
Be Smart Be Safe
- If you have concerns whether a massage gun is right for you, talk to your medical provider before buying one.
- Always read the instructions first and start with the lightest setting on each device since you might not need as much pressure as you think.
- If your massage gun is causing you pain or making this worst STOP.
Certain medical conditions make massage guns unsafe to use in particular areas. Obviously don’t run the gun near surgical wounds or areas significantly affected by swelling and inflammation. Use the gun over muscles only and avoid joints and bones. It is never a good idea to use a massage gun directly over any part of the spine including the neck. However, if your neck does hurt, I find setting the gun right on top of the trapezius (the muscle right behind the shoulders) helps a lot. I use it for 6-10 minutes max. In fact, some guns have a safety feature and turn off after 10 minutes.
Gun Recommendations
Theragro Pro 4th Generation
Key Specifications:
Weight: 2.9 lbs
Speed Setting: 5 Speed Range
Battery Life: 2 swappable batteries each last 150 minutes each or 300 minutes total.
Noise: Quiet force technology (but not quite)
Accessory:
2 Year Standard Warranty
Theragun Mini 2.0
Key Specifications:
Weight: 1.4 lbs
Speed Setting: 3 speed
Battery LIfe: 150 minutes
Noise: Quiet Force Technology
Accessory:
Ultra Portable
3 foam attachments
4Kor Fitness Muscle
Key Specifications:
Weight: 4 lbs
Speed Setting: 5 Speed Settings.
Battery Life: Up to 6 hours.
Noise: QUIET!!!!!!!!!!
Accessory:
2 Year Warranty
Made in Arizona
Renpho R3
Key Specifications:
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Speed Setting: 5 Speeds. Speeds from 1800-3200 rpm.
Battery Life:
8 hours of battery life. Usb-type c charging. It can also be charged with regular phone adapter or a 5v/2a adapter, or a power bank. Will last up to 8 hours.
Noise: Quiet. Super quiet brushless motor, as low as 45 db (decibels), makes it ideal for home, office home gym.
Accessory:
15 Minute Auto Shut- off function. 5 massage heads included.
Hypervolt Go
Key Specifications:
Weight: 1.5lbs
Speed Setting: 3 speed settings
Battery Life: 2-3 hours.
Noise: sounds like a whisper
Accessory:
Made in USA
***Travel Friendly TSA approved carry on****
If price is a major issue, I still use other simple objects such as a Lacrosse Ball or this Foam roller to apply pressure and release knots. The guns however reach areas a foam roller can’t and obviously apply pressure a different way a ball can’t. So I use all these tools interchangeably. If you want a true adjustable gun that allows you to reach your back, Theragun Pro is your go; however if you are looking for straightforward use and less expensive option go for the Renpho R3. People with smaller hands or limited grip, arm, or shoulder strength should consider lighter weight devices like the Theragun Mini or Hypervolt Go. If you have a good grip and larger hands then the Hypervolt Plus has a longer handle.
Make sure to leave a comment if you have any personal favorite percussion guns or massage tools for the gym!