Best Massage Guns for 2024
If you’re new to massage guns, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you get the most out of them. We spoke to sports chiropractor and Hyperice ambassador, Dr. Julia Morgan for advice on the best massage guns.
Choosing the right massage gun: There are different types of massage guns on the market, so it’s helpful to know whether you want something heavy-duty because you’re very active, or whether you don’t need a massage gun with all the bells and whistles because you’re only going to use it occasionally. It’s also important to set a budget for yourself, as some massage guns can cost over $100.
Know what specifications to look for: When choosing a massage gun, there are a few features you’ll want to look at: The amplitude and the stall force. “Stal force simply means how much pressure the motor of the massage gun can withstand before the motor ‘stalls’ on us,” Morgan explains. Amplitude refers to how deep it can go into the area. You’ll typically see amplitudes in the 8mm, 12mm, or 16mm range as the deepest. Typically, heavy-duty massage guns will have the highest amplitudes.
Know the attachments: Most massage guns come with a few different attachments that you can swap out depending on the area you want to treat. Common attachments include a standard ball that’s good for large and small muscle groups, a ball that’s meant to target the muscles in your legs and back, a forked head that’s meant to target the spine, shoulders, and neck, and a flat head that provides a gentler massage for larger muscles.
How often to use: Massage guns are safe to use regularly, as long as there are no health concerns that need to be addressed first. Morgan says, “People with thin skin, underlying musculoskeletal or vascular conditions, or who are pregnant should consult their doctor before use.” While massage guns are safe to use daily to soothe sore muscles or as part of a warm-up, it’s important to make sure you’re not experiencing chronic pain. “If you’re using it every day for a pain that doesn’t go away or get better after 2-3 days, you may need another intervention,” Morgan cautions.
Start slow: It may be tempting to turn your massage gun to the highest setting, but the key is to start slow. Morgan says, “Glide the massage gun gently over the area and don’t hold it in one position for too long.” Use the massage gun in different directions and work on that area for a few minutes or so, taking a break as needed.
