Best Percussion Massage Gun in the UK in 2022: Deep Tissue for Rehabilitation and Muscle Stimulation for Athletes | Buyer’s Guide
This guide covers the best percussion massage guns currently available on the market, from the most powerful professional-grade deep tissue ones to lightweight models that effectively combine percussion and vibration types of massage. Some models were developed for athletes and have proven to be most effective for recovery after workouts and rehabilitation. You will learn about how percussion guns work and what they are used for.
- Percussion massagers are used for rehabilitation as they enhance lymphatic and blood circulation. This therapy is helpful for stiff and spasmed muscles. Also, deep muscle stimulation prevents atrophy.
- Massage guns are popular among professional trainers to help athletes enhance their performance and work out muscles.
From my twenty-year experience of using electronic gadgets, I recommend buying not cheap but middle-priced devices for around £100. Purchasing massagers from trusted manufacturers who have been on the market for at least 2-3 years is a wise idea. It guarantees the quality of material used and warranty assistance.
Among manufacturers on the UK market, I trust Theragun, Compex, HoMedics, RENPHO, and BOB BRAD Mini.
This is a portable electric device that delivers strokes, sending pulses of pressure into the muscles. These deep tissue percussion massagers enhance blood flow and range of motion, help eliminate muscle knots and relieve tension. This treatment also contributes to more rapid recovery, mitigating pain and muscle soreness.
The pulsations it produces soften stiff muscles and soothe the tissue around them, which results in a relaxing effect in the treated area. Although percussion massagers are particularly advertised for home use, they are also in demand among professional physical therapists who apply these devices to their patients to reduce pain sensations. As a rule, we feel muscle pain in several areas of our bodies, which is where the electric massager will come in handy.
Percussion massage is different from a traditional one in that it reduces sensitivity in the area around a sore muscle by affecting its fiber gradually until the area is penetrated. In a traditional massage, a therapist oftentimes may not penetrate deep enough to reach the needed areas. Moreover, the massage itself can be painful, while percussion therapy involves only relief.
Percussion therapy offers a wide array of benefits for the user. Now, let’s take a closer look at them.
- Rehabilitation. This treatment can be recommended as part of rehabilitation in the postoperative period because it is able to enhance lymphatic and blood circulation, which hastens the healing time. Besides, percussion therapy is helpful for stiff joints and spasms of muscles, as it stretches out their fibers. All this is particularly beneficial for those who, for some reason, cannot attend a physical therapist or cannot do it regularly enough.
- Preventing atrophy. With this kind of massagers, patients suffering paralysis will benefit from muscle stimulation that will prevent atrophy and improve reflexes.
- For athletes. Percussion massagers are used by professional trainers as they are known to help athletes enhance their performance. After intense workouts, they have to deal with sore muscles, which is why recovery is an integral part of professional-level workouts. Providing more muscular contractions, these devices reduce recovery time, while the enhanced blood flow decreases fatigue. All this makes the athletes stronger and more durable.
- Improving blood circulation. Even though you don’t suffer from any disorder or disease, a percussion massager can be helpful for you. Improving blood circulation will make you feel better and relaxed.
- Reduce toxins. This therapy is also applied to help reduce the number of toxins in the muscles. On top of that, this is an excellent way to boost your immunity, improve digestion and even sleep better.
- Coping with stress and anxiety. The enhanced blood flow improves oxygen consumption, which results in better breathing. The latter, in its turn, brings down stress and relieves anxiety.
- Pain alleviation. One of the essential benefits of these devices is that they can decrease pain. The higher amplitude the massager has, the more effective it is in pain management. And yet, there is not enough scientific evidence proving that percussion massagers can really alleviate pain. According to Dr. Charles Kim, assistant professor at NYU Langone Health’s Rusk Rehabilitation, while different frequencies are known to impact the muscular healing process and relaxation, there is no convincing study in the field of pain management.
Before anything else, plug the unit if it is corded or insert batteries in a cordless model. Put the required attachments following the label direction and turn on the massager. Unless the doctor recommends otherwise, the first place you should treat with the massager is your shoulders and the back of your neck. Move the device from one shoulder to another as it is the region where the muscles are often tense. Do not apply it to the areas where bones protrude.
Start with the lowest setting, gradually increasing the speed. Keep in mind that most units can be adjusted over the course of a session so that the user can choose the most comfortable setting. Then, massage your back, moving along your spine. Never put the device directly over your spine, instead, massage the muscles on either side of it. When you feel that your muscles start to relax, switch to the lower back, where the muscles are usually stiff.
After that, move down to your buttocks, focusing on the hamstrings that often cause lower back issues. Massage your calves and the ab region, the latter should be treated using the lowest setting. You can apply the unit to your chest as stimulating the area around the heart enhances the blood flow while massaging the lymphatic nodes improves your immunity. And finally, move to your arms and wrists.
Since a percussion massager isn't a cheap gizmo, you should consider some aspects before you part with your money.
- One-person/two-person. Some models are larger in size and require someone to move the unit along your body. This is not a problem for some people as they can ask their partners to do so, while others prefer massager that can be used without assistance. For example, if you have to travel a lot, the latter type will be the best option for you.
- Weight. Keep in mind that the heavier the device, the more intense pressure it can apply. On the other hand, lightweight models are easier to maneuver and reach specific body areas.
- Design. Apart from being a nice-looking product, it should have an ergonomic design. The device should be easy to grasp and operate and simply feel comfortable in your hand. Keep in mind that the model with a long handle is more convenient.
- The number of heads. For the most part, the more heads are built in the unit the better. However, if you want to treat only one spot, a single-head model will work better for you.
- Features. The therapy's effectiveness depends on how many features the product has. By adjusting the speed, you are more likely to achieve your goal.
- Material. Your massager will last longer if it is made from a durable, high-quality material. Make sure that the unit has aluminum or stainless steel parts. High-quality material is also safer in case the device overheats.
TOP Best Massage Gun from 2020 to 2022
Below, you will find the best products at a price ranging from £100 to £600. Here we collected the most trusted manufacturers for the last three years, from 2020 to 2022, who are still the market leaders in producing massage guns.
These models have different designs, weights, and sizes and exert different amounts of force. The number of percussions varies from model to model, as well as the number of speed options. Some items have as many as 6 attachments for various body parts — from the large muscle groups to tender areas — which will make the massage more accurate and efficient.
1. Theragun Percussive Therapy Device | Best Professional Deep-Tissue Percussion Massager
This is the first massage gun that appeared on the market and is still the market leader. The Theragun company was set up in 2007 by Dr. Wersland, a chiropractor who decided to develop his own product after he had suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident. This brand is the leader in the market and is well known for its professional-grade products. Pro and Elite are the brand's most powerful models that are used to treat muscles, assist recovery, and relieve pain.
One of the main advantages of this model is that it was designed for professional use and is the most advanced model on the market. It will take you less than a minute to work one muscle group, making it more flexible and more robust. This unit is an absolute beast as it exerts about 60 pounds of force. The massager offers 2-speed options — a standard one and a lighter one, with the former producing up to 40 percussions per second.
The product comes with six attachments, which can be used depending on your needs. Whether you want to treat tender areas, large muscle groups, shoulders, or the lower back, you will find an appropriate attachment in the kit. The product features a comfortable design with an ergonomic handle, while the arm can be adjusted to 4 angles.
Since this percussion gun is so powerful, no wonder that it operates on two rechargeable batteries. This means that you will not have to spend extra money on purchasing new batteries. Customers rate this model highly, saying that this is an incredible device that provides immediate relief, helping with tight muscles and cramps. Some of them recommend taking advantage of the app that can be used as a good guide. Although this percussion gun is the priciest on the list, it is really worth buying!
Theragun: Check the current price
- Percussion massager vs. Shiatsu: what is the difference?
Percussion penetrates deeply into the muscles. The percussion massager stimulates the skin, muscles, and veins by using strikes and thumps. Shiatsu employs acupressure to release muscle tension and fix imbalances in the energy flow.
- Can I use a massage gun for cellulite? Yes, it works on the areas affected by cellulite, such as the ab, buttocks, and legs. This kind of device is supposed to make your skin more elastic.
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Is massage gun good for athletes? Yes, it is. Professional-grade models have proven to help athletes recover faster and easier. By treating your muscles before and after workouts, you will make them more flexible as well as will improve tissue connectivity.
- What is the best percussion massage gun? Theragun PRO is definitely the best model I have reviewed. While being designed for professionals, it is very comfortable to use. It's a professional medical-grade, high-powered percussion massager equipped with a high-torque motor with 60 lbs max force and an ergonomic 4-angle rotating arm.
6 Best-Selling Massage Guns | Comparative Table
Best Value | Physiotherapy Massager Gun with Heating, Cooling and Anti-Cellulite Attachments
HoMedics Pro Power Handheld Physiotherapy Massager Gun - Professional Deep Tissue Physio Massaging Gun, Heated...
- DEEP TISSUE PERCUSSION MASSAGER - HoMedics Physio Massage Gun is designed to release tight aching muscle and speed up recovery.
- ACTIVE HEAT INTERCHANGEABLE HEAD - Our heated massage head can offer relief to tired, aching muscles and aid recovery after exercise.
- TARGETED RELIEF - Customise your massage and reach every muscle. The round head for massaging large muscle groups, including your arms, waist, back.
- PORTABLE & RECHARGEABLE - The HoMedics Physio Massage Gun is equipped with cordless operation and comes with a storage bag
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN - The lightweight design of the HoMedics Physio Massage Gun makes it perfect for self-treatment
Best Body Massage Gun under £150
HoMedics Massage Gun - Handheld Physiotherapy Massager, Deep Tissue Physio Percussion Massage, 5 Massaging Heads,...
- HOME OF MASSAGE THERAPY - Originally founded in 1987, HoMedics continues to be a leading brand in innovative massage technology. Our newest Massage Gun is designed to aid your well being and recovery
- DEEP TISSUE PERCUSSION MASSAGER - Gently move the massager around the affected area for at home therapy sessions
- FIVE MASSAGE HEADS - Five additional massaging heads allow you to customise your massage
- 3 SPEED INTENSITIES - The one-button control lets you easily adjust the speed of your massage, between 2100 - 3000 rpm, to suit your preferences and customise your massage pressure
- LIGHTWEIGHT, RECHARGEABLE and CORDLESS - The ergonomically designed handle and the lightweight design of our physiotherapy massage gun makes it comfortable to hold and ideal for at home and on-the-go treatment
Best Trusted under £100
Massage Gun, RENPHO Massage Gun Deep Tissue Powerful up to 3200rpm Handheld Percussion Muscle Massager with...
- HIGH SPEED 3200RPM/M BRUSHLESS MOTOR: RENPHO ACTIVE Massage Gun is equipped with Powerful 16.8V brushless motor, which can reach 1800 to 3200rpm/min, available for different muscle groups, aiding in sore muscle relief, relax and shape different body muscle parts.
- SUPER QUIET LESS THAN 45dB: The brushless noise reduction motor is equipped with a new generation of noise reduction technology to control the noise within 45dB, just like whispering in the ear, making the fatigue and soreness of the body all resolved in the silent vibration, you enjoy a quiet moment of relaxation!
- 0.68KG SUPER LIGHT&ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Renpho Massage Gun weighs only 0.68kg，it's much lighter than other massage guns in same size, makes it so easy to carry during the whole massage. Ergonomic design, all operations can be completed with only one button by yourself. You can even enjoy the deep tissue muscle massage independently with one hand.
- 2500mAh HIGH-CAPACITY LITHIUM BATTERY&10mins Auto-Off Protection: The muscle massage gun is equipped with a rechargeable 2500mAh high-quality lithium battery, providing stable lasting power. Once 3H charge brings an unfettered deep massage experience. 10mins Auto-off Intelligent timing protection avoids damage to muscles and bones due to too long massage time.
- SUPER CONVENIENT TYPE-C CHARGING PORT： No need carry the charging cable anywhere when you travel or just go out! This Renpho deep tissue muscle massage gun designed with type C charging port can be charged with most popular type c cable by regular phone adapter or 5V/2A adapter such as a power bank.
Most Discussed & Reviewed
Massage Gun, Bob and Brad Massage Gun Deep Tissue Powerful up to 3200rpm Handheld Percussion Muscle Massager with...
- Developed by Physiotherapists Bob and Brad: Explore warmup, pain relief, and recovery routines from the most famous physical therapists, Bob and Brad! 5 massage heads and 5 speeds are suitable for different parts of the body and can meet different needs. Massage heads in different shapes can be used for different muscle groups and provide targeted treatment for quick recovery.
- High-Caliber Massage Gun: Brushless motor, super blocking torque energy output without interruptionand dual shaft drive structure offers stable operation. The max speed up to 3200rpm can help muscle recover faster, reduce muscle pain, muscle fatigue and lactic acid build-up, encourage blood flow, improve range of motion and flexibility, help with muscle stiffness and more.
- Lightweight & Portable Design, Great Gifts for Mothers Day Women Men: Bob and Brad C2 massage gun is only 1.5lbs/0.68KG, easy to carry anywhere and easy to pack into any gym bag in the home gym office. Bring your own case to increase the portability of the massager. It’s easy to hold with its ergonomic silicone handle design. Carry the muscle massage gun with you and use it anytime.
- Large Capacity Battery and USB Type-C Quick Charge: 2500m-A-h large capacity original battery cells supplied to Car for longer life and security. USB Type-C fast-charging port can be charged to 5V/2A adapter or power bank, providing greater portability. Any regular phone adapters will be able to charge the massage gun without a problem.
- Super Quiet and 10-Minute Timer Auto-Off Protection: Built-in intelligent chip, working for 10 minutes automatic shutdown, to avoid overuse to harm for the human body. Ultra-quiet muscle massage gun. It uses the latest noise reduction technology to reduce the noise of the massage gun during use, the sounds are less than 60dB even at max 3200RPM.
Best Handheld Massage Gun | Pocket-Sized
Massage Gun, Bob and Brad Q2 Mini Pocket-Sized Muscle Massage Gun Deep Tissue Massager for Back Leg Shoulder,...
- Developed by Physical Therapists Bob and Brad: Explore warmup, pain relief, and recovery routines from the most famous physical therapists, Bob and Brad! After an injury or workout, your body repairs itself - but slowly. Q2 Mini Massage Gun intense vibrations provide immediate pain relief, and wake up muscles throughout your body, triggering a myofascial release and enhancing your body’s ability to regenerate cells and repair itself.
- Your Pocket-Sized Partner, Great Gift for Gifts for Men Women Christmas: Q2 MINI is your pocket-sized partner, giving you the highest quality muscle treatment with unparalleled portability. Compact but powerful, Q2 MINI is the most agile massage device that goes wherever you do. Designed for maximum ergonomic comfort and unparalleled portability; quick relief and relaxation that fits conveniently in your carry-on or backpack.
- A New Proprietary Brushless Motor That’S the Most Compact Design Ever: Q2 Mini Massage Gun strikes a never-before-seen balance between power and size, making it a convenient option for getting the quality relief on the go. Maximum speeds up to 3000rpm, and a vibration amplitude of 7mm. Q2 MINI breaks up knots and relaxes tight muscles, digging deep and relieve hard-to-reach muscle groups.
- Longer Battery Life & USB Type-C Charging: 2500m-A-h rechargeable lithium-ion battery lasts about 4 hours with only a 3.5 hours charge. Use it in the home, gym, or office. This deep tissue percussion muscle massage gun can be charged by USB Type-C with the regular phone adapter or 5V/2A adapter(not included).
- Deep Tissue Massage and Powerful Pain Relief On The Go: 5 adjustable speeds(1800, 2100, 2400, 2700, 3000) percussions per minute, each speed delivers greater therapeutic benefits for the body. 5 massage head targets different muscle groups. Q2 Mini is the perfect massage gun for athletes and its the size of a bottled water (5.7”L x 3.4”W x 1.8”H).Weighing in 0.95lb/0.43KG, tuck this tiny, tote-able workout partner into your carry-on, purse, or backpack.
Best Cheap under £50
Amazon Basics Handheld Percussion Massage Gun – Professional Deep Tissue Muscle Massager, 5 Speeds, 4...
- Handheld rechargeable percussion massage gun with storage case
- 4 interchangeable heads provide different massage styles
- 5 speed settings between 1200 to 3,200 rpm with a vibration frequency of 1600-3200 Hz; quiet operation no louder than 60 decibels
- Rechargeable 2600mAh lithium-ion battery; lasts up to 8 hours (2-3 hours at highest settings); auto-shutoff after 10 minutes
- Non-slip silicone handle for a comfortable, secure grip
- Ideal for both home use and travel; includes convenient carrying/storage case
Other popular percussion massagers | Reviews
Handheld Deep Tissue Muscle Massager | Cheap Theragun Alternative
If your budget is limited, you may opt for this item as it is the most affordable percussion massager in our review. It cannot boast the performance of Theragun, produces much noise, and comes only with three attachments.
With a weight of about 3.5 pounds, this unit is lightweight enough. I like its compact and ergonomic design, particularly the massage arm that can rotate 90 degrees. Surprisingly, for the price, it offers more speed levels (6) and can give you up to 2400 strokes per minute. The manufacturer promises that you will feel real percussion that penetrates deep into the muscles. This model also runs on two rechargeable batteries.
Well, judging by the feedback, this thing does the job, helping to cut the time spent on recovery. Customers also speak well of the trigger button, which is very convenient to use as you will not have to hold it down during the treatment. With one click, you will turn on or turn off the unit. But this percussion gun is very noisy as some customers say they have to put on their earbuds while using the device.
Budget Massage Gun: Check the current price
Best Portable Deep Tissue Massage Gun
It has a compact design and weighs just a bit more than two pounds. It can operate for a long period of time — up to 6 hours while charging takes from 2 to 3 hours. There are three modes, with the lower one giving 1800 percussions per minute and the fastest one delivering as many as 3200.
The pack includes four attachments, one of which is suitable for all body parts, another is intended for large muscle groups, the third one is designed for the upper back, and the fourth one will deliver deep tissue massage. The downside is that the device may interrupt its operation if you put too much pressure on it. Customers suggest applying this massage gun to alleviate muscle tension after workouts or such outdoor activities as hiking.
Portable: Check the current price
Hand Held Deep Tissue Massager
A nice sleek design is the first thing that jumps out at you but is by no means the only benefit. This product is recommended by sports trainers and professional therapists, and there are reasons for that. It comes with two motors — one for percussion and the other for vibration. Vibration delivers a soothing massage while percussion gets deep into the muscle tissue.
Customers say that this massager is even more potent than those used by therapists in clinics. They use it for pain relief and recovery, noting that it works well, but the battery dies too quickly. Some buyers complain that attachment falls off the vibration side of their massagers, but these are individual cases. Their other gripe was about the unit turning off once the pressure is applied.
Hand Held Deep Tissue Massager: Check the current price
Compex
The first thing to know about Compex is that it is a brand of the highest quality standard. Founded in Switzerland 30 years ago, the company is now a global leader in the industry of portable muscle stimulators. Compex products are medical-grade devices and are used by professional therapists and athletes. These devices have proved practical pain management and muscle recovery tools. Apply it both before and after workouts to improve your athletic performance and speed up your recovery.
The Compex Fixx massager is particularly good for treating overworked and sore muscles as it provides massage penetrating deep into the muscle tissues. You can customize your massage by both using the device’s speed adjustment feature and putting pressure on your hand. The device comes with 3-speed modes, 3 arm positions, and interchangeable massage heads. Besides, you can purchase additional attachments — a cone and a pad.
This tool is popular not only with men but also with women. This is because of its ergonomic design and amazingly small weight — just 35 ounces. The more lightweight the device is, the longer you will be able to treat muscles effortlessly.
The Compex Fixx™ 1.0 Massager has received much positive feedback from general consumers and professionals. For example, Italian cyclist Davide Belfiore is impressed with its ability to provide an immediate effect. Another satisfied buyer, CrossFit athlete Stefano Migliorini, recommends applying the tool after intense exercise to treat stiff muscles and trigger points.
Massage gun: Check the current price
Pros And Cons of Massage Guns
Pros
- A drug-free alternative in pain management. Although the treatment should be considered rather as a supplementary measure, it will allow reducing the consumption of medicines that usually have multiple side effects.
- Portability. These devices are mostly handheld, and the user can typically do without someone’s assistance. This is particularly essential for those who have to travel a lot.
- Affordable price. Generally, the price isn’t more than £500, but you can easily find a cheap option for under £100. Additionally, owning an electric device will cost you less than attending a physical therapist regularly.
Cons
- Jewelry and clothing can be entangled in the device and damaged.
- Energy consumption. Battery-run models involve extra spending, mainly when used regularly.
- Contraindications. They are not recommended for pregnant women, diabetics, and people with thrombosis and epilepsy. You cannot use them if you have an implanted medical device.
FAQ
Read a detailed insight into trusted percussion massagers in our Buyer's Guide - Best Massage Gun Reviews.
Can you use it for the lungs? If you suffer from pulmonary diseases, a percussion massager can be very helpful as it facilitates loosening the mucus in your lungs. Debora Leader, a medical writer, specializing in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, suggests using electronic devices for chest percussion. She notes that the best time to perform this therapy is in the morning because your lungs build up mucus while you are asleep.
