How to Massage Neck Muscles for Martial Artistes
Martial artists rely on their necks to withstand a lot of stress in training, especially during full-contact sparring. The muscles of the neck need to be strong and well conditioned in order to avoid injury during the movements required in the martial arts. Massage not only increases blood flow, which assists the muscles in building strength, but massage can also sooth minor muscles injuries and soreness for martial artists. Learning to massage the neck of anyone involved in the martial arts is easy as long as you understand the basic muscle structure of the neck. There are three muscles groups in particular which are affected by practicing the martial arts and benefit from massage therapy.
1. Begin by locating the trapezius. This large muscle starts at the base of the back of the head and extends out to the tops of the shoulders, then comes in at an angle on each side, meeting in the middle of the back about halfway down the spine. The area you want to focus on is the upper trapezius, which covers the lower sides and back of the neck. This muscle controls the raising and lowering of the shoulders. Have the martial artist raise his shoulders to isolate the trapezius so that you get a feel for it with your fingertips.
2. Locate the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles. These are the rope-like muscles which run from just behind the ear to the collarbone. When your subject tilts her head to the side, you should be able to easily find the SCM. These muscles act in flexing, tucking and rotating the head.
3. Locate the scalene muscles. This is a group of three muscles—the anterior, middle and posterior scalene—which are attached to the first and second ribs, and are crucial in assisting the breathing process. While supporting respiration is their main function, these muscles also manage the weight of the head. The scalene muscles are located in the groove that is formed where the trapezius and the SCM meet on the lower side of the neck.
4. Have the martial artist assume and hold various martial arts movements, such as ready stances, blocks and punches. This isolates the relevant muscles so that they can be accessed for massage. As each muscle is flexed, work your fingers into the muscle, moving along the length of it gradually, applying enough force that firm pressure is felt, but not pain. When you work the SCM, use your finger and thumb to grasp it while rolling it between your fingers.
