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When stretching and foam rolling aren’t enough to ease post-workout muscle soreness, a massage gun can assist provide some relief. The perfect massage gun is designed to assist reduce lactic acid buildup, promote recovery after a troublesome training session, and increase blood flow to sore or tender areas. It will probably also temporarily increase your range of motion before you even begin your workout.
I’m in my mid-thirties and work out hard 4 to 5 days every week, so I do know the worth of using massage gun to assist with my recovery. Along with my trusty foam roller, I exploit a massage gun several days every week to make sure my muscles are at all times feeling their best. Having been a fitness author for nearly three years, I even have also spent countless hours researching one of the best massage guns and have change into intimately acquainted with features like stall force and amplitude. Within the roundup review below, I compile all of that information to bring you the highest 10 massage guns in the marketplace.
How We Selected the Best Massage Guns
The Breaking Muscle team has tested greater than a dozen massage guns over several months, using them before and after workouts, in between sets, and at random times throughout the day when we wanted relief from achy muscles.
After testing each product, we utilized a proprietary scoring system to rate it on a scale of 1 to 5 (one being the worst, five being one of the best) in various categories, corresponding to percussions per minute (PPMs), amplitude, decibels, portability, available attachments, and overall value. We then combined those individual rankings to present each device an overall rating and narrowed down our list to one of the best of one of the best.
Our Top Picks for the Best Massage Guns
Best Massage Gun Overall: Therabody Theragun Pro
Therabody Theragun PRO
4.5
- Product weight: 2.76 kilos
- Stall force: 60 kilos
- Amplitude: 16 millimeters
- Speed: Five settings starting from 1,750 to 2,400 PPM
- Attachments: Six (Micropoint, supersoft, wedge, thumb, dampener, and standard ball)
- Battery life: 150 minutes
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Pros
- Displays various routines on an OLED screen
- Comes with a soft carrying case and attachment pouch
- Connects to the Therabody app for personalized, guided massage routines
- Comes with a two-year limited device warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Only comes with one battery, so the battery life is shorter than it was on previous generations
The Theragun PRO tops our list as one of the best massage gun overall as a consequence of its ergonomic design, ability to deliver a strong massage, fast charging, and comparatively quiet operation.
The Theragun PRO is currently in its fifth generation. Just like the previous iterations and other models just like the Theragun Prime, it has a triangular-shaped, ergonomic handle. At 2.76 kilos, it’s a couple of quarter of a pound lighter than the fourth generation, making it even easier to carry and use.
Moreover, the fifth generation Theragun PRO is 20 percent quieter than the fourth generation. You should use it while catching up in your favorite TV shows at night or on the gym without disrupting the opposite members. At its highest speed setting, it’s about 66 decibels, which is quieter than a washer or dishwasher.
The speed settings are also the identical between the fifth and fourth generations. The Theragun PRO has five speeds starting from 1,750 to 2,400 PPM. The stall force of 60 kilos and the amplitude of 16 millimeters are also the identical between the 2 iterations. These specs make it some of the powerful massage guns we’ve tested. While it might be an excessive amount of for beginners or the common person, it may possibly be helpful for elite athletes or those that put their bodies through frequent, intense workouts.
The Theragun PRO comes with Bluetooth connectivity, so you need to use it with the Therabody app to sync personalized recovery routines to the device. You may select routines to follow before or after activities corresponding to running or strength training; to handle muscle tension in specific areas, just like the glutes; or to loosen up before going to bed.
The app also includes video instructions and tells you ways long to massage each area for enhanced muscle recovery. In the event you’ve never used a massage gun before, following the app’s guidance can assist make sure you’re targeting your muscles effectively.
Nonetheless, one drawback (and considered one of the one changes from the fourth generation that we don’t like) is that the fifth generation Theragun PRO only comes with one battery. The battery life between the 2 generations is similar at 150 minutes, but because the fourth generation got here with two batteries, you would essentially rise up to 300 minutes of use.
That said, the battery on the fifth generation may be charged with a USB-C cable, so it does charge faster than the fourth generation (about 75 minutes versus 125 minutes when charging the fourth generation on a charging station).
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Best Massage Gun on Amazon: Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini Massage Gun
Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini Massage Gun
4.1
- Product weight: 1.1 kilos
- Stall force: As much as 32 kilos
- Amplitude: 10 millimeters
- Speed: Three settings starting from 2,000 to three,200 PPM
- Attachments: 4 (Flat, bullet, round, and fork)
- Battery life: Six hours
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Pros
- Quiet operation
- Cheaper than many other options on our list
- Compatible with USB-C charging cables
- Lifetime guarantee and warranty
- Comes with a carrying case
Cons
- Doesn’t have as many speed settings as other mini massage guns
- Doesn’t include a charging cube
You could find dozens of massage guns on Amazon, but consider the Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini Massage Gun the most effective. It’s quiet, has a formidable stall force for a massage gun of its size, comes with an honest battery life, and is simple to travel with.
Our product tester gave the Bantam Mini 4 and 5 stars, respectively, for the handle and battery life. She liked the handle’s slim design and rubberized grip and located it easy to achieve all of the muscle groups she desired to massage, including the upper back. Based on her testing experience, the six-hour battery life listed on the web site was accurate. She also appreciated how the battery indicator lit up in several colours based on how much battery is remaining (blue for 80 percent full, purple for 60 to 80 percent, solid red for between 20 and 60 percent, and blinking red for lower than 20 percent).
At just 33 to 55 decibels, the Bantam Mini is quieter than an electrical toothbrush, which is around 60 decibels. You may easily use it while watching TV or within the presence of others without annoying them.
We also like that the Bantam Mini has USB-C charging capabilities. It comes with a charging cable, but if you happen to lose it, you need to use any USB-C charger you almost certainly have already got at home. Plus, you possibly can charge it multiple ways, whether you should plug it into the wall with a charging cube (which it doesn’t include) or plug it into your laptop. The assorted options you may have for charging it mean you’ll rarely need to worry about it not having any juice left.
The Bantam Mini comes with 4 attachments (flat, bullet, fork, and round) — greater than the three attachments you’ll get with other mini massage guns, corresponding to the Theragun Mini, but fewer than the six you’ll get with larger massagers, just like the Sportneer Massage Gun. Still, the attachments it does include are pretty standard and can let you massage nearly the entire essential muscle groups within the body.
In comparison with the Theragun Mini’s 12-millimeter amplitude and 20-pound stall force, the Bantam Mini only has a 10-millimeter amplitude but boasts a 35-pound stall force. We gave it 5 out of 5 stars for the stall force but only rated it 3 out of 5 stars for the amplitude. Our expert product tester, who’s also an authorized personal trainer and CrossFit Level 1 Coach, says the amplitude is just average (or barely above average, at best) for mini massage guns.
Nonetheless, the lower amplitude and stall force will not be a priority if you happen to don’t use massage guns often or prefer a less intense massage. Other customers are satisfied with the ability the Bantam Mini provides. One reviewer says, “The Bantam may be small, however it really performs – a lot in order that I now only use the Bantam. The Bantam’s ~10mm amplitude, 3200 ppm speed, and the 35 lb stall speed feels great on drained and sore muscles.”
The Bantam Mini comes with a carrying case that’s just seven inches when measured diagonally. If you should travel with it, it shouldn’t be too hard to seek out space in your luggage for it, even if you happen to pack it in a small carry-on bag. The hard outer shell must also keep it protected in case your suitcase gets jostled around.
One in all the areas the Bantam Mini falls short is the speed settings. The Breaking Muscle staff member who tested it only gave the speed settings 3 out of 5 stars. While she says they’re suitable for a mini massage gun, the three fixed speeds (2,000, 2,600, or 3,200 PPM) are fewer than what you’ll find on greater massagers, corresponding to Ekrin Athletic’s larger model, the B37 Massage Gun.
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Best Massage Gun Under $100: Sportneer Massage Gun
Sportneer Massage Gun
3.8
- Product weight: 2.3 kilos
- Stall force: 40 kilos (in keeping with the Amazon product listing)
- Amplitude: 11 millimeters
- Speed: Six settings starting from 1,300 to three,200 PPM
- Attachments: Six (Ball, bullet, U-shaped, flat, and two metal flat heads)
- Battery life: As much as seven hours
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Pros
- Long battery life
- Comes with six attachments, including two chrome attachments that you could use for decent/cold therapy or with essential oils
- Six speed settings
- Cheaper than many other options
Cons
- Handle design may very well be higher
- Heavier than several other massage guns we’ve reviewed
Technically, the value of the Sportneer Massage Gun as of this writing is $120, but Amazon is offering a $20 coupon, putting it right on the $100 mark. You may also sometimes find it at a reduced price around the vacations and other major shopping periods, like Prime Day. It’s still the most effective budget massage guns available for that reason.
The Sportneer Massage Gun comes with six massage heads, which is standard for regular-sized massage guns. What helps it stand out is that two of the massage heads are chrome. You may heat them in hot water or put them within the freezer to raise your massage experience. You may even use them with essential oils or CBD oil. These are great additions because not even high-end massage guns just like the Theragun PRO include metal massage heads. We gave it 4.75 stars out of 5 for this versatility.
Our product tester also gave it high marks for the six speed settings. These are greater than most massage guns on this price range offer, however it does mean there’s a bigger variance between speeds.
At 30 to 45 decibels, it’s quieter than other massage guns which can be in regards to the same size and don’t provide as many PPMs. For comparison, the Theragun PRO only goes as much as 2,400 PPM and is 66 decibels at the very best setting. The Sportneer Massage Gun goes as much as 3,200 PPM. Our product tester said it was the quietest massage gun she’s tested. Several customer reviews agree, with one saying, “It…is pretty quiet on the moderate speeds we use and the vibration that travels to your hands from holding it is suitable for the quantity of massaging it’s in a position to put out.”
Weighing 2.3 kilos, it’s not essentially the most portable massage gun. The included carrying case is a pleasant touch, but we didn’t think it was anything special. We gave this massage gun 2.75 stars for overall portability and three stars for the carrying case. In the event you travel often and wish a massage gun that’s less bulky, a smaller option just like the Theragun Mini or Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini could also be a better option.
Moreover, considering the scale of the Sportneer Massage Gun, we didn’t find the 40-pound stall force and 11-millimeter amplitude impressive. Other options just like the Ekrin Athletics B37 weigh in regards to the same but have a 56-pound stall force and 12-millimeter amplitude. Still, the specs are decent for a budget-friendly massage gun and can be sufficient for individuals who don’t need an intense massage.
Unlike other massage guns with a triangular handle, the Sportneer massage gun has a straight handle, which could make targeting areas just like the upper back tougher. Nonetheless, the handle has a 45-degree angle to assist with that. Our product tester also noted that she had no trouble wrapping her small hands across the handle and liked the soft-grip rubber coating. She rated the handle 3 out of 5 stars.
Sportneer claims this massage gun has as much as seven hours of battery life. Based on our testing, we predict that is accurate. We used it when it was fully charged for 15 to twenty minutes a day for every week — just over two hours total — and the battery still had loads of juice.
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Best Massage Gun Under $50: OLsky Massage Gun
OLsky Massage Gun
3.5
- Product weight: 1.98 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: 30 speed settings as much as 3,250 PPM
- Attachments: 10 (Y-shaped, tower, air compression, spade, mushroom, spade, wedge, bullet, U-shape, and spherical)
- Battery life: Two hours, depending on which speed you employ it at
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Pros
- Comes with more attachments than every other massage gun on this list
- LCD touchscreen allows for simple speed adjustments
- Carrying case is included
Cons
- Long charging time of three to 4 hours
In the event you’re on the lookout for an ultra-budget-friendly massage gun, the OLsky Massage Gun may very well be for you. For lower than $50, you get a quiet, lightweight massager with a wide selection of attachments that can assist relieve muscle tension and stimulate blood flow to tender areas.
The decibel level ranges from 35 to 55, just like the Ekrin Athletics Mini Massage Gun and B37 Massage Gun. In the event you use your massage gun in a public setting or while watching TV, the low noise level won’t interrupt other people or drown out your entertainment.
The product listing claims that it takes three to 4 hours to charge, however it looks as if this is simply if the battery is totally drained. Some customer reviews suggest it may possibly take as little as half-hour to charge if it still has some juice left. Nonetheless, there may be a battery indicator on the LCD touchscreen. You’ll give you the chance to quickly gauge how much battery you may have left before you may have to charge it again, so that you shouldn’t be met with any surprises if you happen to attempt to turn it on and find that there’s no battery left.
It comes with 10 attachments, which is impressive, especially considering the value point. Not even the nearly $600 Theragun PRO has that many. A number of the attachments are standard, just like the spherical and bullet heads. Others are more unique, just like the air compression head and the spade head. Whether you’re on the lookout for a soft, relaxing massage or need to actually attack a painful muscle knot, the OLsky Massage Gun will likely be as much as the duty. Plus, it comes with a sturdy carrying case with various compartments to assist keep the entire attachments organized.
The 30 speed settings it offers are greater than every other item on this list — the following highest is the Sportneer Massage Gun with six speed settings. Nonetheless, this will likely be greater than you really want to get an efficient self-massage. As one customer review says, “The one thing is that it has like 30 levels. I believe it only needs 5 or 6, but I suppose if you happen to are super sensitive having more levels would aid you adjust accordingly.”
The OLsky Massage Gun weighs just below two kilos, nearly three-quarters of a pound lighter than the Theragun PRO. It could be a greater option if you may have smaller hands or dexterity issues and want a light-weight massager. Otherwise, we’d recommend taking a look at more compact options just like the Theragun Mini. The Theragun Mini only weighs one pound, though it only comes with three attachments and only goes as much as 2,400 PPM (the OLsky Massage Gun goes as much as 3,250 PPM).
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Best Massage Gun for Runners: REP Rapidstrike Massage Gun
Pros
- Impressive battery life
- Massage heads are made with silicone that’s easy to scrub
- 18-month manufacturer warranty
- Compact and simply portable
Cons
- No battery indicator
- Power brick isn’t included
When running, the calves, quads, glutes, hamstrings, and iliopsoas (a hip flexor muscle) can all take a beating. A massage gun just like the REP Rapidstrike can assist ease soreness and tightness in those areas. Plus, its lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck into your gym bag if you travel to the gym, the track, or a race.
The truth is, we gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars for portability due to its compact size. It also comes with a carrying case for simple portability and organization, though we wish the case was more protective, so we gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars. Still, it’s higher than many other massage guns we’ve tried whose carrying cases are made with thin, flimsy materials.
REP doesn’t list specs like amplitude or PPMs. Nonetheless, based on the knowledge we received from considered one of our product testers (an authorized personal trainer and CrossFit Level 1 Coach who’s tested dozens of massage guns and written on them extensively), we’d guess that the decibel level is between 60 and 65. We’d place the amplitude between 11 and 13 millimeters and the PPMs at around 2,200 to 2,400, making it less powerful than the Theragun PRO.
A customer review on REP’s website also seems to agree that this isn’t necessarily essentially the most powerful massage gun. He says, “I do only wish that the upper setting had a bit of more punch to…get deep into areas that need more work. It’s a trade off between how quiet you would like this versus how deep you would like it to massage.”
We only rated the handle 3.5 out of 5 stars. It doesn’t have a rubber grip, so it may possibly get slippery, and the straight handle isn’t as ergonomic as we’d like. Nonetheless, we had no issues with the diameter and didn’t experience a big amount of wrist or forearm fatigue when using this massage gun.
We found that REP’s claims of as much as eight hours of battery life were accurate, but we gave The Rapidstrike 3.5 out of 5 stars when it comes to battery and charging. It doesn’t include a charging brick and there is no such thing as a battery indicator light. Charging can take about 90 minutes, which is slower than the Theragun PRO but faster than a few of the cheaper options just like the OLsky Massage Gun.
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Best Mini Massage Gun: Therabody Theragun Mini
Therabody Theragun Mini
3.7
- Product weight: One pound
- Stall force: 20 kilos
- Amplitude: 12 millimeters
- Speed: Three speed settings as much as 2,400 PPM
- Attachments: Three (Standard ball, dampener, thumb)
- Battery life: 120 minutes
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Pros
- Available in three colours
- LED speed indicator on the side of the device
- Compatile with the Therabody app
Cons
- Battery life is shorter than other massage guns we’ve tested
Since it weighs right around one pound and encompasses a compact, triangular design, we consider the Theragun Mini one of the best mini massage gun in the marketplace.
The Theragun Mini on a shelf on the Breaking Muscle testing facility
I had a likelihood to make use of the Theragun Mini on the Breaking Muscle testing facility, and I loved how comfortable the silicone-coated massage gun was to grip. The lightweight construct meant I used to be in a position to hold onto it for several minutes at a time without my hand or forearm muscles getting fatigued.
The Theragun Mini is currently in its second iteration. The primary generation only got here with the usual ball attachment, however the second generation now also comes with dampener and thumb attachments.
That said, other mini massage guns, just like the Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini Massage Gun and REP Rapidstrike Massage Gun, include 4 attachments. The Theragun Mini still falls short in that regard. It’s compatible with Therabody’s fourth and fifth generation attachments, but you may have to pay around $20 for them — and the device is already near $200, making it the costliest mini massage gun on our list.
The 12-millimeter amplitude on the second generation is similar as the primary generation. It’s not as much because the 16 millimeters you’ll get with the larger Theragun PRO, however it still delivers an efficient massage. The stall force is just 20 kilos, so it won’t deliver as intense of a massage because the Erkin Athletics Mini Massage Gun, which has a stall force of 35 kilos. Nonetheless, once I used the Theragun Mini, I used to be impressed with how powerful it was. The truth is, I couldn’t even apply it to the very best setting, though I could be a little bit of a baby in relation to sore muscles.
A Breaking Muscle staff member using the Theragun Mini at our testing facility
Like other massage guns in Therabody’s lineup, the Theragun Mini is compatible with the Therabody app. The app delivers personalized wellness routines based in your goals, whether you should loosen up before a workout, relieve achy muscles after a troublesome training session, or reduce upper-body tension from hunching over a keyboard all day.
The Theragun Mini uses the identical motor because the Theragun Pro, putting the decibel level at around 66 when used on the very best speed setting. That is in regards to the same decibel level as a dishwasher. After I tried it, I wasn’t bowled over by the quantity of noise it delivered, and I may be sensitive to super loud noises. So, I believe most individuals should give you the chance to tolerate the noise level of the Theragun Mini.
Best Deep Tissue Massage Gun: Ekrin Athletics B37 Massage Gun
Ekrin Athletics B37 Massage Gun
4.3
- Product weight: 2.2 kilos
- Stall force: 56 kilos
- Amplitude: 12 millimeters
- Speed: Five speed settings as much as 3,200 PPM
- Attachments: 4 (Flat, bullet, round, fork)
- Battery life: Eight hours
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Pros
- Long battery life
- Lighter than other massage guns which can be just as powerful
- Not too heavy or bulky
- Angled handle helps reduce wrist and forearm fatigue
Cons
- Lower amplitude than others
The Ekrin Athletics B37 Massage Gun isn’t essentially the most powerful massager, however it does go as much as a formidable 3,200 PPM and has a 12-millimeter amplitude, which is sufficient to deliver an efficient deep tissue massage. We also just like the 15-degree handle, which makes it more comfortable to carry for long periods.
The B37’s decibel levels range from 35 to 55, identical to the brand’s Bantam Mini Massage Gun. Its proprietary sound insulation puts it amongst the quietest massage guns. For reference, the Theragun PRO fifth generation is 66 decibels, so the B37 could also be a better option if you happen to prefer a quieter massage experience.
The eight-hour battery life is higher than every other option on our list aside from the REP Rapidstrike. Even if you happen to use the massage gun day-after-day, a single charge needs to be enough to last greater than every week. One reviewer on Amazon says, “I even have been using it for every week and haven’t needed to recharge the battery. I exploit it about 20 minutes a day total.”
The five speed settings on the B37 are middle of the road. The Theragun PRO offers the identical variety of speeds, though it only goes as much as 2,400 PPM, whereas the Ekrin Athletics B37 goes as much as 3,200 PPM. The upper PPM helps offset the 12-millimeter amplitude, which is lower than the Theragun PRO’s 16-millimeter amplitude.
Best Massage Gun for Back Pain: Therabody Theragun PRO
Therabody Theragun PRO
4.5
- Product weight: 2.76 kilos
- Stall force: 60 kilos
- Amplitude: 16 millimeters
- Speed: Five settings starting from 1,750 to 2,400 PPM
- Attachments: Six (Micropoint, supersoft, wedge, thumb, dampener, and standard ball)
- Battery life: 150 minutes
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Pros
- Displays various routines on an OLED screen
- Comes with a carrying case and a separate pouch to maintain the attachments organized
- Syncs with the Therabody app for personalized massage routines
- Two-year limited device warranty included along with your purchase
Cons
- High price point
- The fifth generation Theragun PRO only comes with one battery, unlike previous models
In the event you suffer from lower back pain, the Theragun PRO may give you the chance to deliver the relief you would like.
Its ergonomic handle and adjustable massage arm make it easy to achieve around and massage the back muscles. It doesn’t have a U-shaped attachment, which we generally recommend using across the spinal column. However it does include a thumb attachment that may be excellent for massaging sensitive muscle tissue within the lower back.
The Theragun PRO’s speed settings range from 1,750 to 2,400 PPM. It has a 60-pound stall force and a 16-millimeter amplitude, which pack a reasonably powerful punch. In case your lower back is amazingly sore, you’ll likely want to start out at the bottom PPM and regularly work your way up.
As powerful because it is, the Theragun PRO is quiet. At the very best speed, it reaches about 66 decibels — quieter than household appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. This implies you possibly can have a peaceful, peaceful massage session whether you’re at home or on the gym.
We also like that you could sync the Theragun PRO with the Therabody app for personalized massage routines. If you should expand beyond the lower back, the app will guide you on learn how to massage the calves, glutes, hamstrings, or every other muscle group.
The Theragun PRO’s current version only comes with one battery. This isn’t unusual in other massage guns we’ve tried, however it is a downgrade from the previous iteration of the Theragun PRO, which got here with two batteries. Nonetheless, the listed battery life is 150 minutes, so if you happen to use it for about quarter-hour per day, it should last about every week and a half.
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Best Handheld Massage Gun: Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2
Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2
3.3
- Product weight: 1.5 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: Three settings
- Attachments: Two (Flat, bullet)
- Battery life: Three hours
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Pros
- Longer battery life than other mini massage guns
- Grippy rubber-coated handle
- Lightweight construction makes it easy to travel with
Cons
- Only comes with two attachments
- The precise stall force and amplitude aren’t provided
- Doesn’t include a carrying case
Technically, the entire massage guns on our list are handheld. But we chosen the Hyperice Hypervolt Go as one of the best handheld massage gun since it’s lightweight, and while we found the handle a bit thick for our preferences, we did appreciate how grippy the rubber coating was.
Hyperice doesn’t disclose the stall force or amplitude of the Hypervolt Go 2. Nonetheless, based on our testing and what we find out about massage guns, we are able to assume that the stall force is between 20 and 30 kilos and the amplitude is around 10 millimeters. The stall force is in regards to the same because the Theragun Mini, however the amplitude is 2 millimeters lower. We rated the stall force 4 out of 5 stars and the amplitude 3.5 stars.
We also knocked off just a few points since the Hypervolt Go 2 only comes with two attachments: a flat head and a bullet head. Other mini massage guns include no less than three attachments, so the flexibility of the Hypervolt Go 2 is lacking in that regard.
The Hypervolt Go 2 is sufficiently small to travel with, however it doesn’t include a carrying case, so that you’ll have to purchase some type of pouch or bag individually to maintain it protected.
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Best Massage Gun for Athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2
Hyperice Hypervolt 2
4.2
- Product weight: 1.8 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: Three settings
- Attachments: Five (Fork, ball, cushion, flat, bullet)
- Battery life: Three hours
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Pros
- Compatible with the Hyperice app
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Sensor technology shows how much pressure you’re applying
Cons
- Doesn’t include a carrying case for the massager
For athletes seeking to up their recovery game, the Hyperice Hypervolt 2 may very well be selection. Hyperice doesn’t provide the stall force or amplitude. But we estimate the stall force to be around 30 to 40 kilos and the amplitude to be around 13 to 14 millimeters. As such, we predict it’s protected to say that this massage gun can deliver the quantity of pressure you should loosen stiff muscles and reduce soreness.
Bluetooth lets you sync the Hypervolt 2 to the Hyperice app and rivals Therabody’s massage gun tech capabilities. With the app, you possibly can select various routines for warming up or cooling down before or after your workouts. This could be a helpful feature for anyone who’s latest to using massage guns or prefers a more structured approach to their warm-ups and cooldowns.
The decibel level hovers around 70 at the very best speed, making it noisier than the Theragun PRO. Still, it’s no louder than a dishwasher, so it shouldn’t be too disruptive.
While your purchase features a pouch to maintain the attachments organized, it doesn’t include a case for the massage gun itself. In the event you know you’ll be traveling with it, plan on purchasing one other protective case or finding something to wrap the massage gun in to avoid damage.
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What Do Massage Guns Do?
Massage guns use percussive and/or vibration therapy to deliver an efficient massage that targets the deepest tissues of the body. They aren’t the exact same as a deep tissue massage from a licensed physical therapist. Nonetheless, massage guns can still be a convenient method to provide pain relief and promote blood flow to tender areas of the body when you possibly can’t make it to the spa.
Massage guns typically include various attachments, corresponding to a ball, flat head, fork, or bullet. Each attachment serves a unique purpose. A ball attachment, for instance, is right for figuring out painful knots deep within the tissues of huge muscle groups just like the glutes, hamstrings, or quads. Alternatively, a bullet head attachment may be higher for alleviating soreness in smaller muscles like those within the feet or for really zeroing in on painful trigger points.
Massage guns also let you adjust the speed and intensity settings for a customized massage experience. Lower intensities are higher for individuals who are latest to using massage guns or when working on more delicate areas. Higher intensities let you more effectively reach the deeper tissues of your larger muscles.
Advantages of Massage Guns
Now that you already know what a massage gun does, you could wonder how it may possibly aid you. Below are a few of the many advantages of massage guns:
- Increased blood flow. The repeated mechanical motions of a muscle massager help promote blood flow to the targeted area, which can assist provide relief if the realm is sore or tight. It will probably also help prepare your muscles for a workout.
- Decreased muscle soreness. Some research has shown that using a massage gun before a workout can reduce the quantity of muscle damage you incur. (1) In consequence, you could experience less soreness and fatigue during and after your workout.
- Increased flexibility and range of motion. One study within the X showed that athletes who used a massage gun on their calf muscles experienced increased dorsiflexion of the ankle. (2) More research is required to guage how long these effects last, however it is feasible that you simply’ll notice higher performance within the gym if you happen to use a massage gun as a part of your warm-up.
- Convenience. With a massage gun, you possibly can give yourself a massage any time your muscles need a bit of love — no more waiting until a massage therapist at your local spa can suit you in for an appointment.
- Portability. Many massage guns are sufficiently small to stash in your gym bag so you possibly can include them as a part of your warm-up or cool-down routine. Additionally they often include carrying cases to aid you keep the entire attachments organized.
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How Do You Use a Massage Gun?
To make use of a massage gun, secure your selected attachment to the device, switch it on to the bottom setting, and hold it against the realm of the body you should goal. Slowly move the massage gun over the muscle for one to 2 minutes. It’s best to maintain it moving because this may help promote blood flow; concentrating it on the identical spot for too long may result in bruising or worsen soreness and tightness. In the event you feel like you would like a deeper massage, regularly increase the setting until you reach your required intensity.
You should use a massage gun at any time of the day. I generally wish to use mine for a massage session within the evening to assist me unwind before bedtime, but I do know several athletes who use theirs as a part of their warm-up routine. I’ve also heard of individuals using massage guns immediately after a workout as a method to cool down and loosen up the muscles they only trained the toughest.
When Should You Not Use a Massage Gun?
While massage guns are generally considered protected when used properly, there are just a few instances where it’s really helpful to avoid them. It’s best to never use a massage gun on bruised or injured areas (think a sprained ankle), as they will make injuries worse. You furthermore may shouldn’t use one directly on bony parts of the body, like your knee joints. These areas are more prone to injury from the force of the massage gun.
For a similar reason, it’s best to avoid using a massage gun on the spinal column, as it may possibly cause damage to the discs and nerve roots of the spine.
Lastly, individuals with conditions corresponding to arthritis, hypertension, or certain cancers shouldn’t use a massage gun. Massage guns can worsen inflammation and other symptoms related to these health conditions.
What To Look For in a Massage Gun
Attachments and Accessories
I highly recommend getting a massage gun that comes with multiple attachments, as they will make a big impact in your experience with the product. I even have a massage gun from Compex, and it only has one ball head. I wish I had taken the time to do more research on the advantages of different heads before I placed my order. (This can be a part of the rationale I didn’t include that massage gun within the list above.)
For instance, a fork attachment is right for massaging across the spine or the realm across the Achilles. Damper or foam attachments are good for hitting sensitive areas, like those closer to your bones or joints. Bullet attachments can aid you zone in on isolated sore spots.
Before making your purchase, consider where on the body you’ll use the massager essentially the most, and make certain it comes with attachments which can be suitable for targeting those areas.
Percussion vs. Vibration
Massage guns can offer either percussion or vibration therapy. Percussion massage guns use an up-and-down motion and may reach no less than 16 millimeters into the body tissues. They’re higher for breaking up muscle knots, but some people find them too intense. The entire Theragun models reviewed above are percussion massage guns.
Vibration massage guns use a side-to-side motion, which is useful for increasing blood flow and circulation.
Noise Level
You’ll likely desire a massage gun that’s relatively quiet, especially if you happen to’ll use it in a public setting like a gym or within the presence of other individuals who live with you. Many massage gun brands list the decibel level of their products on their web sites, so you’ll want to read the product descriptions fastidiously.
I like to recommend on the lookout for a massage gun that’s around 70 decibels or lower, which is barely louder than the sounds of two people talking to one another and household appliances like dishwashers. The Theragun PRO and Theragun Mini are each good options whose decibel levels are around 65 on the very best speed setting. For a good quieter massager, consider the Sportneer Massage Gun, which only goes as much as around 55 decibels.
Charging and Battery Life
A massage gun’s battery life can range anywhere from two to eight hours, depending on the model, how often you employ it, and what level of intensity you employ most frequently. Despite the fact that you’ll likely only use it for just a few minutes at a time, an extended battery life is useful because you need to use the massage gun for several days before needing to recharge it.
It’s also good to search for a massage gun that doesn’t take an extended time to charge for those times when it unexpectedly runs out of battery. A unit that only takes an hour or so to totally charge can turn out to be useful in such situations.
Amplitude
Amplitude refers to how far the massage gun head goes up and down. A massage gun must reach no less than 16 millimeters to be considered a percussion massage gun, though few options in the marketplace which can be listed as percussion massage guns actually reach that deep. Most reach closer to 12 or 15 millimeters. Nonetheless, this may be thing, as many individuals find true percussive therapy to be too intense.
Other massage guns you’ll find in the marketplace, just like the Ekrin Athletics Bantam Mini Massage Gun, only reach so far as 10 millimeters. Nonetheless, these may very well be good options for those with sensitive skin or anyone who prefers a gentler massage experience.
Stall Force
Stall force is the quantity of force you possibly can apply to an area before the massage gun’s motor stalls. It is commonly listed in kilos and ranges from 20 to 60 kilos, for essentially the most part. Stall force can affect which massage gun you choose to buy since it indicates how aggressively you possibly can press the device into your muscles. In turn, this affects the intensity of your massage.
A stall force of no less than 30 kilos is right if you happen to prefer low- to moderate-intensity massages. A stall force of no less than 40 to 50 kilos is best if you happen to prefer a more aggressive self-massage.
Percussions Per Minute
Percussions per minute (PPM) is the variety of times the massager’s head will hit your muscle per minute. These can range anywhere from 1,700 to three,200 PPMs. Most massage guns, including the Theragun PRO, REP Rapidstrike, and Hyperice Hypervolt Go, offer several different speed settings, so you possibly can tailor your massage based on which muscle you’re targeting or how sore you’re.
Design
The design and product weight of a massage gun can impact how comfortable it’s to carry. A heavy, bulky massage gun could also be difficult to make use of, especially if you may have dexterity issues. It will probably also cause wrist fatigue to settle in quickly or make it tougher to hit the targeted areas effectively.
In our experience, massage guns with triangular-shaped handles, just like the Theragun PRO, are easier to maneuver than those with straight handles, just like the OLsky Massage Gun. Straight handles could make it tougher to hit hard-to-reach areas, just like the scapula within the upper back.
Best Massage Guns: Side-by-Side Comparison
Best Massage Gun Overall
Description:
- Product weight: 2.76 kilos
- Stall force: 60 kilos
- Amplitude: 16 millimeters
- Speed: Five settings starting from 1,750 to 2,400 PPM
- Attachments: Six (Micropoint, supersoft, wedge, thumb, dampener, and standard ball)
- Battery life: 150 minutes
Best Massage Gun on Amazon
Description:
- Product weight: 1.1 kilos
- Stall force: As much as 32 kilos
- Amplitude: 10 millimeters
- Speed: Three settings starting from 2,000 to three,200 PPM
- Attachments: 4 (Flat, bullet, round, and fork)
- Battery life: Six hours
Best Massage Gun Under $100
Description:
- Product weight: 2.3 kilos
- Stall force: 40 kilos (in keeping with the Amazon product listing)
- Amplitude: 11 millimeters
- Speed: Six settings starting from 1,300 to three,200 PPM
- Attachments: Six (Ball, bullet, U-shaped, flat, and two metal flat heads)
- Battery life: As much as seven hours
Best Massage Gun Under $50
Description:
- Product weight: 1.98 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: 30 speed settings as much as 3,250 PPM
- Attachments: 10 (Y-shaped, tower, air compression, spade, mushroom, spade, wedge, bullet, U-shape, and spherical)
- Battery life: Two hours, depending on which speed you employ it at
Best Massage Gun for Runners
Description:
- Product weight: 2.3 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: Not listed
- Attachments: 4 (flat, round, U-shaped, bullet)
- Battery life: As much as eight hours
Best Mini
Massage Gun
Description:
- Product weight: One pound
- Stall force: 20 kilos
- Amplitude: 12 millimeters
- Speed: Three speed settings as much as 2,400 PPM
- Attachments: Three (Standard ball, dampener, thumb)
- Battery life: 120 minutes
Best Deep Tissue Massage Gun
Description:
- Product weight: 2.2 kilos
- Stall force: 56 kilos
- Amplitude: 12 millimeters
- Speed: Five speed settings as much as 3,200 PPM
- Attachments: 4 (Flat, bullet, round, fork)
- Battery life: Eight hours
Best Handheld Massage Gun
Description:
- Product weight: 1.5 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: Three settings
- Attachments: Two (Flat, bullet)
- Battery life: Three hours
Best Massage Gun for Athletes
Description:
- Product weight: 1.8 kilos
- Stall force: Not listed
- Amplitude: Not listed
- Speed: Three settings
- Attachments: Five (Fork, ball, cushion, flat, bullet)
- Battery life: Three hours
FAQs
What’s one of the best brand of massage gun?
The perfect brand of massage gun is Therabody. They’ve many high-quality models, including the Theragun Elite, Theragun PRO, Theragun Mini, and Theragun Prime, which can be available at different prices and are available with different attachments. We especially just like the Theragun PRO due to its 60-pound stall force and 16-millimeter amplitude, and it’s no louder than the sound of two people having a standard conversation.
How much should massage gun cost?
Some massage guns, just like the Theragun PRO, cost almost $600. Nonetheless, you’ll find high-quality massagers for greater than half that price. A massage gun within the range of $200 to $300 can still offer a ton of value if it has an adequate enough amplitude, multiple speed settings, and various attachments to assist provide powerful, effective massage.
What is best Theragun or Hypervolt?
In our opinion, Theragun is best. Despite the fact that Theragun massage guns are likely to be dearer, they’re more powerful and offer more speed settings. We also think the 4 adjustment points on the Theragun PRO allow for a greater massage experience, and Hypervolt massage guns don’t have that capability.
How do I find massage gun?
To search out massage gun, have a look at specs just like the stall force, amplitude, speed range, and available attachments. A good massage gun could have no less than three speed settings, which is able to let you adjust the intensity of your massage based on how sore you’re. Amplitudes of 12 to fifteen millimeters are sufficient for most individuals, as is a stall force of around 40 kilos. Nonetheless, if you may have a really muscular construct or prefer a more intense massage, 16 millimeters of amplitude and as much as 60 kilos of stall force could also be a greater option.
Moreover, search for massage guns that include multiple attachments, like a bullet, flat head, ball, and U-shaped attachment. This fashion, you possibly can goal various body parts in other ways.
Research
- Kim, J. Y., Kang, D. H., Lee, J. H., O, S. M., & Jeon, J. K. (2017). The consequences of pre-exercise vibration stimulation on the exercise-induced muscle damage. Journal of physical therapy science, 29(1), 119–122. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.29.119
- Konrad, A., Glashüttner, C., Reiner, M. M., Bernsteiner, D., & Tilp, M. (2020). The Acute Effects of a Percussive Massage Treatment with a Hypervolt Device on Plantar Flexor Muscles’ Range of Motion and Performance. Journal of sports science & medicine, 19(4), 690–694.