A sports massage is a specialized type of manual therapy focused on muscle recovery, injury prevention, and rehabilitation for athletes and active individuals. Because these sessions often involve deep tissue work and manipulation, many people feel anxious about the appropriate attire. Understanding what to wear, or what not to wear, can significantly improve the comfort and effectiveness of the treatment. This guide addresses common questions about preparing for your appointment.
Attire for Arrival and Departure
The clothing you wear to the clinic should prioritize comfort and convenience for the transition into the treatment room. Opt for garments that are loose-fitting and simple to remove and put back on quickly after the session. Good choices include athletic wear like sweatpants, shorts, or a comfortable t-shirt.
These items prevent tight bands or seams, such as those from denim or stiff waistbands, from leaving temporary indentations on the skin. These indentations can interfere with the therapist’s initial assessment of soft tissue texture and tone. Ensure your clothing does not restrict movement or require complex fastening systems before the treatment begins.
Understanding Draping and Modesty
Professional standards strictly regulate client privacy through a practice called draping. Draping involves using large sheets or towels to cover all parts of the body not being actively manipulated. This ensures that only the specific muscle group the therapist is currently working on, such as the hamstrings or rotator cuff, is exposed at any given moment. Clients are encouraged to undress only to their personal comfort level, often meaning removing outerwear but keeping underwear or briefs on.
The therapist will step out of the treatment room before the session begins to allow you to undress privately and get settled comfortably underneath the sheet. When the session is complete, the therapist will again leave the room, giving you time to fully redress without feeling rushed. This protocol maintains a professional environment and respects client boundaries throughout the appointment.
When Clothing May Remain On
Undressing completely is unnecessary when the session involves certain movement-based techniques. If the session includes active stretching, such as Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), or a movement assessment, clothing may need to remain on. For these methods, flexible athletic shorts, a sports bra, or a tank top allows the therapist to observe muscle function and posture while the client is actively moving.
Localized treatments like trigger point therapy or myofascial release applied to easily accessible areas (forearms, lower legs, or neck) can often be performed effectively through lightweight, flexible fabric. The therapist will communicate clearly beforehand if the planned treatment requires you to be fully or partially clothed.
Practical Pre-Session Considerations
Several practical steps can be taken before the session to maximize the quality of the treatment. Maintaining hygiene, such as showering shortly before the appointment, is recommended for the comfort of both the client and the therapist. This prevents the transfer of sweat, dirt, or debris onto the treatment table and the therapist’s hands.
Removing all jewelry is also advised, including watches, bracelets, necklaces, and dangling earrings, as these items can interfere with the therapist’s stroke mechanics and deep tissue application. Clients should also avoid applying heavy lotions or excessive oils to the skin immediately before the session.
These products create a slippery surface that reduces the therapist’s necessary grip and control when applying deep pressure to muscle tissues.