CrossFit is a high-intensity, strength and conditioning program that combines elements of weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio. It is a demanding sport that requires a lot of physical exertion and can lead to sore muscles and injuries. To aid in recovery and injury prevention, many CrossFit athletes are turning to TENs units and other electric stimulation tools.
Benefits of TENs Units:
Here are some of the keys benefits:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Improve muscle tone, strength, and endurance
- Increase blood flow to the affected area
- Reduce muscle spasms and improve range of motion
- Improve flexibility
- Reduce soreness
- Release muscle tension
- Can be used in combination with traditional recovery methods such as heat therapy, cold therapy, and foam rolling for optimal recovery and performance.
TENS units (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) are small, portable devices that use electrical impulses to stimulate the nerves in the body. These impulses can help to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as increase blood flow to the affected area. TENS units are particularly effective for sore muscles, as they can help to reduce muscle spasms and improve range of motion.
What is Electrical Muscle Stimulation?
Another electric stimulation recovery tool that is popular among CrossFit athletes is the EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) unit. These devices work by sending electrical impulses directly to the muscles, causing them to contract and relax. This can help to improve muscle tone, strength, and endurance, as well as reduce soreness and inflammation.
What is DOMs?
DOMS, or delayed onset muscle soreness, is a common experience for athletes and anyone engaging in physical activity that is new or intense. While DOMS can be a natural part of the training process, it can also have drawbacks for athletes. DOMS can cause muscle pain and stiffness that can limit an athlete’s range of motion and decrease their strength and power. It can also increase the risk of injury by altering an athlete’s form and technique. Additionally, DOMS can disrupt an athlete’s training schedule and have a psychological impact, causing them to become discouraged or anxious about their training or performance.
One way to manage the pain and stiffness associated with DOMS is through the use of TENS units. TENS units work by sending low-voltage electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin, which can help to block or reduce the pain signals that are sent to the brain. This can provide relief without the use of medication and is a safe and convenient option for pain relief.
While TENS units were originally designed for use in a clinical setting, they are now widely available for personal use at home. Athletes can use TENS units to manage the pain and stiffness associated with DOMS, allowing them to continue training and making progress towards their goals. TENS units are easy to use, with most models featuring simple controls that allow users to adjust the intensity and frequency of the electrical impulses.
Overall, while DOMS can be a natural part of the training process, it is important for athletes to manage it effectively to minimize the drawbacks and continue making progress towards their goals. TENS units can be a safe and effective way to manage the pain and stiffness associated with DOMS, but it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using a TENS unit, particularly if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether a TENS unit is a suitable option for your specific needs and can provide guidance on how to use it safely and effectively.
Combining Recovery Tools
Other tools such as heat therapy, cold therapy, percussive massage and foam rollingcan also be used to aid in recovery and injury prevention for CrossFit athletes. Heat therapy can help to increase blood flow and reduce muscle stiffness, while cold therapy can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Foam rolling is a self-massage technique that can help to release muscle tension and improve flexibility.
TENS units and other electric stimulation tools can be a valuable addition to any CrossFit athlete’s recovery and injury prevention routine. These devices can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve muscle tone, strength, and endurance, and increase blood flow to the affected area. Combining these tools with traditional recovery methods such as heat therapy, cold therapy, and foam rolling can help to ensure optimal recovery and performance.
