Last updated on October 24th, 2021 at 01:35 pm
Massage Guns have long been utilized by professional athletes and physical therapists. However, these percussion massagers are now widely used in the home to relieve muscle tension, increase circulation, and promote tissue regeneration for efficient recovery. We’ve found the best massage guns for athletes can pave the way for efficient workouts and better performance.
What Makes a Great Massage Gun?
It’s tempting to purchase the first massage gun you see. However, there’s a wide variety of quality and function. So, regardless of your commitment level, we have put together some quick, useful tips to help athletes find the best. Those searching for the best massage gun to meet their needs should absolutely consider these following points.
- Multiple Speed Settings: Massage gun speed is measured in RPM, or revolutions per minute. With multiple speed settings, athletes can adjust the massage to their comfort.
- Amplitude: While some massage guns offer vibration, deep massage is only achieved with percussion devices. Amplitude describes the depth of which percussion massagers can penetrate the muscle. Higher levels, like 14-16mm, are very powerful and recommended for those that want serious recovery with a deep touch. However, 10-12mm is very accessible to most peoples preference and still offers the same benefits.
- Battery Life: A longer battery life is ideal to achieve deep therapy as well as stretch time between charges. If you’re just on leg day, you may not need a long battery life to conquer small recovery areas. However, for weight lifting or vigorous marathon training, athletes will need a longer battery to meet these full-body needs.
- Lightweight Feel: Holding a heavy massager during therapy can become cumbersome and wear on the body. Choosing devices that weigh less than 3 pounds will allow for relaxing sessions.
Our Favorite Massage Guns for Athletes Are...
After a lot of sorting through the competition we found several options that rose above the rest. While some exceeded our expectations, others weren’t quite so impressive. We’ll go over our findings in the following post. However, we first must mention these few that stood above the rest.
Our favorite massage gun: Theragun PRO Percussion Massager
Second place: Theragun Elite Percussion Massager
Best budget option: Mebak3 Percussion Massager
We worked hard to grind out all the details and effectiveness of many models. Take a look at our reviews below for more about our favorites and how they made the list.
Comparison Table of Massage Guns
We’ve laid out all of our contenders in a chart below for easy reference. Follow the links below for more information, including current pricing. However, we go into more detail on each further into this post.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
|
Theragun PRO Percussion Massager | $$$ |
|
Theragun Elite Percussion Massager | $$$ |
 
|
Mebak3 Percussion Massager | $ |
|
Jawku Muscle Blaster V2 | $$ |
 
|
IReliev Massage Gun | $ |
As you can see, the general appearance of percussion massagers is similar. However, there are tons of differences between our finalists. And, we’ll describe why each has made our list below.
1. Theragun PRO Percussion Massager
First up is our best overall in percussion and amplitude. If it is ultimate power and personalization that you are looking for then the Theragun PRO is a real winner.
We found this to be the most powerful professional-grade product. It truly won’t disappoint the most committed athletes.
Professional-Grade Performance
First and foremost, this massager is a dream in terms of matching professional performance. We found the Theragun Pro to give the deepest and most precise percussion on the market.
And, with an incredible variability in depth and speed, it comfortably sits at the top of our list.
In fact, the Theragun Pro features speeds ranging from 1750-2400 rpm through 5 speed settings. However, when controlled with the Therabody app, as mentioned below, users can experience any speed on a sliding scale within this range.
Furthermore, this tool has a top-end, 16mm amplitude. So, for serious athletes looking for deep tissue recovery, better circulation, and reduction of lactic acid, this is the perfect gun.
Additionally, we found that with this amplitude, regardless of where you sit on the speed settings, you’re getting incredible performance out of this machine.
Therabody App and Bluetooth for Customized Therapy
In addition to beautiful operation, Theragun offers an outstanding app for further customization and guidance.
The Therabody App tracks your workouts in real time using Apple Heath, Samsung Health or Google Fit. From there it suggests recommended, ever-changing routines (including attachments and setting requirements) to use with your Theragun.
In short, this is a genius app with smooth, seamless operation. Conversely, if you don’t have any of these health tracking apps on your phone, fret not! Therabody has an organized interface featuring loads of recovery content.
So, whether you’re looking to aid plantar fasciitis, massage hip flexors, or warm up for cycling, this app has you covered. And, if you’re not a physical therapist, this is a welcomed gold mine of knowledge and instruction.
Furthermore, you can wirelessly control your gun (and gain more speed settings) through this app to work along-side the recommendations. Genius.
Various Attachments
Finally, we were really impressed with the Theragun Pro’s quality and array of attachments for a high level of customization.
We love the standard bell attachment for general use or larger areas and switch to the dampener when working on a bonier area.
Additionally, you will also find attachments for pinpoint treatment and also for moving lactic acid. We found these super-soft attachments great for working on sensitive areas.
Couple these attachments with the adjustable arm and variable speeds, and you have a very versatile tool.
As you can see from our chart, most massagers come with an array of attachments. However, we love the Pro for it’s easy and strong coupling system and sturdy feel.
Theragun PRO Pros and Cons
Theragun PRO PROS
- Variable speeds
- Amazing smartphone app
- Best ergonomic handle shape
- Adjustable arm (3 positions)
- Updated to be extremely quiet
- 300 minutes of battery life
- 16mm professional-grade amplitude
- Our favorite assortment of attachments
Theragun PRO CONS
- Shaft can become a tad hot during extended use
- A little heavy at 3.1 lbs
Who is This Massage Gun Perfect For?
This is an incredibly powerful and hard-hitting massager that is ideal for athletes who need to get right down into the muscles for intense relief and recovery. And, with it’s ergonomic triangular handle, we find this is the best on the market for tackling anything on the backside of your body. Check out more information, including current pricing, here: Theragun PRO Percussion Massagers
2. Theragun Elite Percussion Massager
Next up is our runner up, and it boasts many of the same great features as our first place winner. The Theragun Elite Percussion Massager is essentially the PRO model with less attachments, a different paint job, stationary position, 40lb stall-force, a pound lighter and less battery life.
So, if you want all the necessities of endurance, power, and function from Theragun and save a little money, the Elite is a fantastic option.
Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver
If your muscles are already sore, a bulky massage gun causes more strain than it fixes. However, the Theragun Elite is very lightweight and easy to handle.
Weighing just over 2lbs, you will barely exert any extra effort to control the Elite model.
Moreover, the handle, like all Theragun products, is ergonomically designed for minimal strain on hands and wrists. So, no matter the part of the body, the Elite remains comfortable and easy to hold.
High-Performance Operation
The Theragun Elite is a diverse tool that tackles all muscle groups and routine recovery with ease.
This gun can be set to five speed settings between 17500 and 2400 rpm. And, these can again be altered by using the companion app which is extremely convenient.
As standard on many models, you’ll find an easy-to-read display, flush buttons to toggle speed any presets.
And, with a maximum of 40lbs no-stall pressure (as opposed to 60 lb of the PRO) we find there’s still more than enough allowance for pressure to get a strong massage. Especially with it’s professional 16mm amplitude and a range of useful attachments.
We find that this deep amplitude more than makes up for any features missing from it’s better counterpart. So, for those just dabbling in percussion massagers, or looking for the occasional recovery tool for marathons training, gym routines, or cycling, the Elite is an outstanding option.
Quiet Operation
Massaging your muscles in peace is another important factor, especially if your working the upper body.
The Theragun Elite performs beautifully with an updated QX65 brushless motor that offers almost silent operation.
Additionally, we wanted to find out if their new models would still offer the same power with this reduction of noise. And, this unit features their new QuietForce technology, which we found did indeed meet its promises.
As a result, internal sound insulation absorbs any small sounds from the motor making the ultimate therapeutic experience…and way quieter than its predecessor, the G3.
Pros and Cons of the Theragun Elite Percussion Massager
Theragun Elite PROS
- 120-minute battery life
- Lightweight and easy to handle at 2.2 lbs
- 16 mm amplitude
- Ergonomic handle
- App for custom therapy
- Adjustable speed from 1750-2400 rpm
- Quiet operation
Theragun Elite CONS
- Head doesn’t tilt
Why Will Athletes Love This Percussion Massager?
The Theragun Elite is a great choice for athletes on the go with a compact design and long battery life. If you’re new to the percussion massager game, the Elite is an outstanding option, especially if you don’t need all the bells and whistles of the Pro. View more information, including current pricing, here: Theragun Elite Percussion Massager
3. Mebak3 Percussion Massager
Next up is our best percussion massager for the budget-minded.
The Mebak3 Percussion Massager is a lightweight, yet extremely powerful device that has an impressive amount of diverse therapy options.
Power without the Noise
One of the first things that grabbed our attention is how quiet this machine runs. It is fitted with a high-torque brushless motor that operates smoothly and without the grating noise of other lesser models.
Just as impressively for the price, the variety of the speed settings is one of the Meback3’s most stand-out features. With 5 speeds ranging from 640 to 3200 rpm, this is great for everything from relaxing to very hardcore sessions.
However, the level of noise will depend on its speed setting. We found that the sound may run anywhere between 30db and 50db. Although, the average is 39db which is comparable to most home computers or a gently moving stream.
Conversely, we were concerned that this low-noise operation would present less power and punch for effectual recovery. But, that is absolutely not the case!
The Mebak 3 is a very powerful option that works deep in the muscles to relief tension.
Lightweight and Easy to Handle
In addition to great performance, the Mebak is unexpectedly light in the hand. And, if you regularly travel for marathons or do a lot of training at the gym, this will be a great companion.
The Mebak3 weighs just over 2lbs which is incredibly light and has a specially designed handle that makes it a delight to hold. We found it also to have great grip that feels secure in the hand regardless of where the therapy is needed.
Additionally, we found this unit keeps vibration in its head and away from the hands. As a result, athletes will find less arm fatigue and a firmer hold.
Medium-Intensity Depth
Finally, we need to mention that some athletes will need a tougher, deeper touch than what this massager is able to offer. However, for most people, the Mebak3’s 12mm amplitude will be able to penetrate just the right amount.
This intense level of amplitude is really nice for tension relief, medium-intensity muscle penetration and for releasing lactic acid. In addition, we found it amazing when performing at its lower speeds around the upper shoulder area and around bones.
Finally, another important feature is the amount of pressure you can apply to the unit to get deep into the muscles. Here, the Mebak3 has an effective range of force it allows before it stalls to protect the motor, and this is based on the speed setting.
At its first speed 30lb of stall-force, 40lb at speed two, 45lb at speed three, 50lb at speed four, and 55lb at its fifth speed. So, for a low price, you’re still getting a very nice machine with a powerful motor that has features to keep it safe and working for a long time.
Pros and Cons of the Mebak3 Percussion Massager
Mebak3 Percussion Massager PROS
- Very lightweight at 2.1 lbs
- LED screen provides an easy to read alert of the applied pressure for the duration of the massage
- 3 hour battery life
- 12mm amplitude
- Large variety of good-quality attachments
Mebak3 Percussion Massager CONS
- Touch controls are not very sensitive
- Some problems with removing the battery
Who Would This Massage Gun be Perfect For?
We love the Mebak3 for the budget-conscious athletes, or those just dabbling in this sort of therapy. Additionally, for all that it provides, at this high of quality, we were very impressed that it wasn’t more costly. Check out more information, including current pricing, here: Mebak3 Percussion Massager
4. Jawku Muscle Blaster V2
Another fantastic option for serious athletes is the Jawku Muscle Blaster V2.
With a uniquely tilted design, 14mm amplitude and a hefty speed range of up to 3200 rpm, this machine performs every time.
Marathoners, weight lifters and cyclists alike will be impressed with the versatility of the Jawku. However, with its middle of the road price point, this power and investment is accessible to avid gymgoers as well.
Versatile, Powerful Function
Whether you have mild surface tension or demanding fascia problems, the Jawku Muscle Blaster v2 has a function to meet your needs.
Straight away, athletes will notice the high range of speed possibility coupled with its 14mm amplitude.
The Muscle Blaster v2 comes with a choice of five speed hefty settings ranging between 1400 and 3000 rpm.
Furthermore, this unit also comes with four of the most important attachments designed to flawlessly tackle every area. The large ball is great for large muscles, a flat head provides broad firm pressure and a forked attachment is a dream on the neck. In addition, their bullet attachment is ideal for spasms and deep tissue tension.
However, we do miss the function of a wedge attachment found in some of our other favorites for blasting lactic acid.
Regardless, this operated beautifully while relieving muscle tension and increasing circulation pre and post workout.
Easy To Handle
As mentioned previously, this design is incredibly unique and very easy to use. For instance, the Muscle Blaster v2 has an angled handle, which grants a much more comfortable grip than typical models.
And, because you don’t have to torque your wrists to get the perfect angle, this massager prevents new muscle strain.
Furthermore, we love the lightweight feel that is amplified by that angle as well as an extremely comfortable siliconized grip.
Jawku Muscle Blaster V2 Pros and Cons
Jawku Muscle Blaster V2 PROS
- 14mm amplitude
- 56lbs stall-force
- 5 speed settings from 1400-3200 rpm
- Ergonomic tilt for easy application
- 4-6 hours of battery life
- nearly silent at 40 db
- Lightweight at 2.2 lbs
Jawku Muscle Blaster V2 CONS
- May be too much power for some
- Doesn’t include an attachment for lactic acid release
Who Would Love This Percussion Massager?
This massage gun would be ideal for athletes who like a deep touch and loads of battery life for lengthy sessions. View more information, including current pricing, here: Jawku Muscle Blaster V2
5. iReliev Massage Gun
Next up is the iReliev Massage Gun, for its simple design coupled with incredible power. Additionally, the most stand-out features of this massager are amazing battery life and light weight. If you need something that is going to give you hours of uninterrupted relaxing massaging, this will do the trick!
Quiet Operation
With its simple design and low price point, we went into it thinking this machine would be cumbersome with a loud motor. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find the iReliev to have a seamless operation at just 45 decibels.
Thanks to the smooth brushless motor, a very quiet system delivers a relaxing massage.
And, the power isn’t reduced to make way for quiet operation. The iReliev boasts high-torque operation with a choice of three speed settings. As a result, you really are getting the best of both worlds.
Great Battery Life
Additionally, for people who need something to tackle lengthy massage sessions, the iReliev is a great choice.
With a low volt consumption, 15000mAh battery athletes can expect about 4 hours of massage.
While the company does claim it gets 6 hours, we find that at the highest settings, you’re more likely to get a bit less. Which is still an absolutely incredible amount of therapy time.
Tackle All Parts Of The Body
As an athlete, your body is susceptible to a variety of strain, aches, and injury. And, the iReliev has you covered with great attachments that are expertly designed. Also, with the lightweight and compact design, this unit easily accesses even those hard to reach muscles. So, these attachments can do their job better.
Here, we found the iReliev to offer 10 mm amplitude and three speed setting at 1800, 2400, and 3200 rpm.
Now, this isn’t the most aggressive in terms of tissue depth. However, for those that like or need a milder massage touch, this is a great choice. And, this is still an outstanding unit as it utilizes percussion as opposed to vibration.
So, while you’re getting a less intense depth, athletes can still expect the benefits of increased circulation, breaking of scar tissue, and muscle regeneration of percussion.
IReliev Massage Gun Pros and Cons
IReliev Massage Gun PROS
- One-button operation
- Comes with travel case
- Variable speeds
- Very quiet at 45 db
- We observed 3-4 hours of battery life at highest setting
- Great for those that like a lighter touch
IReliev Massage Guns CONS
- Could have more speed settings (only has 3)
- Not as effective, deep therapy at 10mm stroke depth
- Doesn’t monitor user pressure to protect motor
Who is this Massager Perfect For?
While the power is pretty impressive, this massager would be ideally suited to those who like a less intense massage. And, while there are only three speed settings, these are diverse enough to make this an effective massager for various parts of the body. Check out more information, including current pricing, here: iReliev Massage Gun
Before Picking Your Massage Gun
Now, while there are plenty of massagers on the market that claim to relieve muscle tension, percussion massagers are the ideal choice. Especially if you’re looking for the deep penetration that releases nutrients, increases circulation and helps with muscle recovery. So, before purchasing the cheapest or most accessible model, consider the following attributes. Athletes and gym-goers should choose massage guns with:
- Multiple speed settings. With multiple speed settings, athletes can adjust the massage to their comfort and to the ailment at hand.
- Appropriate amplitude. Amplitude refers to the depth that the massage tip will ‘punch’ into muscles. Serious athletes tend to head toward higher amplitudes like 14-16mm. However, if you don’t like a hearty massage, 10-12mm is completely understandable and offers very comparable benefits.
- Long battery life. A longer battery life is ideal to achieve deep therapy as well as stretch time between charges.
- Lightweight feel. Choosing devices that weigh less than 3 pounds will allow for relaxing sessions. Additionally, unless you have a partner to help, reaching certain areas will be cumbersome with heavier models.
Regardless of the machine you choose, we whole-heartedly suggest any percussion massager over vibration-only devices. You just can not compare the benefits to muscle regeneration and circulation of percussion over vibration.
Additionally, a few words of advice. With any machine, start the motor before placing it on the body and ease into it without adding pressure at first. Try not to grind into your ailments right off the bat and gauge what works throughout the pace of a week. Remember to breathe while you’re working and try to let muscles relax. Finally, take a day or two off between heavy sessions to allow the body to reset.
Faster Recovery, Better Performance
Aching, sore muscles are unpleasant, but muscle tension, scar tissue and lactic acid can really get in the way of performance. And, for athletes recovery is an incredibly important aspect of any sport. However, these are all things that can be eliminated to get the body back on the field or to the gym at tip top shape.
Massage guns, also referred to as percussion massagers, aid so many aspects of recovery from muscular tension and joint pain to cramping and tight fascia. Regardless of which sport you take part, these machines are insanely important to your training regimen. So, get ready to for some serious massage and therapy that’s completely accessible in the home!
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Image Credit: Nenad Stojkovic | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size