This Recovery Device Will Transform Your Sore Back and Aching Head
A Theragun is about as close to a torture device as a fitness tool can get. The brand makes professional-grade percussive therapy (i.e. soft tissue treatment) devices-the previous iteration is the G3Pro-that function as fast-moving, targeted foam rollers. And it hurts. But it hurts the way foam rolling or a deep-tissue massage does, mostly because it's doing the same job but in a more efficient manner: It releases muscle tension, breaks up scar tissue, and increases blood flow. For the most part, the $600 tool has been reserved for athletes, physical therapists, and other fitness professionals. That is, until this week. Today, the brand is launching two new takes on the device: the G3 and Liv.
"With the G3Pro, our main challenge was to create a mechanical structure that could deliver our scientifically calibrated treatment with both a lower noise level and the quality required by our professional users," says Theragun founder Jason Wersland, D.C. "The challenge was like building a race car engine with the sound of a luxury car. The challenge with the G3 and Liv was taking this core technology and using it as the main infrastructure for a more affordable product. Even with just the essential features, these two devices are state-of-the-art and don’t compromise on quality."
The G3 and Liv are the first tools in the Theragun family to act as more consumer-facing products, as in not so inside fitness. The G3, which retails for $399, is the quietest of the bunch, sounding more like a stable hum than an electric drill. The Liv, which retails for $299, is the most lightweight and compact; it's something you can bring with you to and from the gym, versus something like the original G3Pro, which is better fit for using in one place. They're both available starting today at Theragun.com, and they will be rolling out for purchase on Amazon in the coming weeks.
The machines use a signature 16mm amplitude, frequency, and torque movement, which relieves muscle tension. This goes for tension from fitness, stress, and overuse. If you're a big fitness person, you can use it like you would a foam roller: before working out to activate muscles and get blood flowing, and after to release tension and prevent delayed onset muscle soreness. If you're not into fitness, use it when you need relief. Your shoulders, back, IT bands, and calves are all hot spots for muscle tension.
A post shared by Theragun (@theragun) on Apr 17, 2019 at 6:51pm PDT
Wersland even uses the tool to treat headaches.
"Most people don’t realize that the cause of tension headaches actually starts from the upper chest, through the shoulders, and all the way around to the upper back," says Wersland. "So the way I treat tension headaches is by using my Theragun and starting on my biceps, working up to my shoulders, down onto my chest, and then finishing on my traps. Then, I work backwards on the same muscles, moving the tension away from the head."
Your head isn't the only place that could benefit from extra attention; Wersland also recommends treating your feet regularly.
"Our feet are our wheels, and we use them all day," he says. "When you're on your feet, your brain is receiving constant information and stimulus that helps us navigate life. Using the Theragun through the day on your feet, even over your shoes, will rejuvenate your feet and make your whole day feel lighter."
('You Might Also Like',)
