This massage fun offers three vibrational speeds ranging from 1750 to 3200 RPM and is designed to provide calming, therapeutic relief post-workout or after a long day on the job. It’s also notably compact and weighs less than a pound, making it perfect for on-the-go use. This massage gun has four interchangeable heads and can be set to six speeds ranging from 1200 to 3200 RPM (revolutions per minute). It comes with a carrying case and lasts for up to four hours on a full charge. Though this percussive massager doesn’t have all the bells and whistles and may run slightly louder, it does the trick. The PRO is also slightly lighter than its predecessor while still being much more powerful than its fellow Therabody guns, as well as being 20% quieter than the previous model.
“Forked” heads are especially good for massage around the spine, if you can get someone else to reach that area for you. Look for attachments that attack the muscle groups where you feel the most sore. When purchasing a massage gun, you should definitely keep your own budget in mind, says Wu. The price of a massage gun ranges relatively widely, but you can typically expect to pay between $80-$300 for a quality device.
In professional settings, massage guns can enhance what a massage therapist, physical therapist, or athletic trainer can offer—with less wear and tear on the practitioner’s hands, wrists, and elbows. “It gets you a lot in a very short span of time,” said Ericka Clinton of the Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences. Massage guns work by sending fast and powerful pulsating strokes that penetrate deep into muscle tissues.
These handheld percussive devices can be used to quickly and effectively alleviate tightness and pain caused by overworked muscles. Invest in a high-quality massage gun and you can use it before training, to prime your muscles for a session, or post-workout to ward off any potential DOMS. It’ll help you recover faster, boost your circulation and lymphatic drainage, increase your flexibility and extend your range of motion – ultimately improving your performance across the board.
I’ll be the first to say I don’t think those features really matter. Sure, they’re a nice touch and grounds for bragging rights with your gearhead friends—but they don’t improve the functionality of a massage gun by much. Rob Clymo has been a tech journalist for more years than he can actually remember, having started out in the wacky world of print magazines before discovering the power of the internet.
Our best overall pick is the Renpho R3, a powerful massage gun with a high-frequency design, a quiet brushless motor, and five interchangeable heads. Folks on a budget should consider the FitRx
Muscle Massage Gun, which has four attachments and six speeds. And if you’re looking for a mini option for on-the-go use, we highly recommend the ultra-compact and lightweight Yunmai CosyCare.