The Theragun Mini 2 isn’t just a small massager with a punch

Yesterday’s programme included hill sprints, so my calves are rebelling today. I’ve stepped up my running training over the past few weeks because I still have a lot of running plans for this year. I let the Theragun Mini 2 jolt over my tired muscles to provide as much relaxation as possible.

Vibration and gentle tapping

Massage guns have been very popular with fitness enthusiasts for some years now. They’re easier to integrate into everyday life than regular massage sessions or physiotherapy. The vibration and pulsation of the guns increases blood circulation. This means metabolites can be broken down after exercise more quickly. Plus, the range of motion is improved as shown in an analysis of 39 individual studies.

Further research suggests that massage guns may also be useful for preventing muscle soreness and can increase muscular performance when used before exercise. All good reasons to pick up the massage gun yourself and get your tired legs back in shape with some quick, rhythmic tapping.

Handy and easy to use

Massage guns are available in many shapes, sizes and at different prices. I opted for the Theragun Mini 2 from Therabody. On the one hand, because Therabody is experienced in this area. On the other hand, because I was looking for a massage tool that I could take with me on trips and to competitions.

Massage guns

EUR178,80

Therabody Theragun Mini 2. Generation

26

Massage guns

EUR178,80

Therabody Theragun Mini 2. Generation

26

The gun is 20 per cent smaller and 30 per cent lighter than its predecessor, the Theragun Mini. This is a huge plus point for me because I travel a lot. After sitting on a train or in a car for ages, I often feel tense and could do with a massage.

The Theragun Mini 2 has another new feature. You can connect it to the Theragun app via Bluetooth and use a whole range of massage and wellness programmes. I’ll reveal later on why I think this is really useful.

The technical details

- 12-millimetre movement amplitude
- 9 kilos of impact force
- 3 speed levels: 1,750, 2,100, 2,400 percussions per minute (PPM)
- Size: 15×15×5.5 centimetres
- Weight: 0.45 kilogrammes
- Battery life according to manufacturer 120 minutes
- Battery rechargeable via supplied USB cable

My first test

I was immediately impressed by how easy it is to use. A single button for everything. For switching on and off and for switching between the three speeds. This works intuitively and reliably.

The package includes three different massage attachments: a soft one for treating larger areas of the body or sensitive areas, a massage head with standard hardness and a small one that works specifically on hardened areas. The small one is the most painful for me.

In terms of handling, I like the triangular shape. It allows me to apply pressure directly over the massage head without my hand or forearm cramping. Thanks to the slight indentation in the middle of the triangle, I have a firm grip of the massager without it slipping.

First, I treat myself to a massage on the lowest setting. The vibration on my muscles and tissues feels good. Brrrrrrr. Nice. But at the next level, there’s a much stronger pulse. Like a small, angry boxer the massage gun works my tired muscles. Soon I feel slight pain of the healing kind, followed by a feeling of relaxation.

Thanks to the app, the massage gun is really helpful

The next time I try it out, I run the device over my body letting it pummel my muscles as I see fit. Where it feels tense or hardened, I hold it for longer. I adjust the pressure and speed based on what’s comfortable. Treatment with the Theragun Mini 2 already feels relaxing. But I’m not sure how hard, how long and at what intensity I should massage to get the best results for my muscles.

This is where the app comes into play. Connecting to the device via Bluetooth works smoothly and I can choose from a whole range of applications in the app, from warm-ups for strength training to tension relief and recovery after water sports. The calf programme and the recovery programme after running are two I’m particularly interested in.

I’d probably have used less pressure in the calf programme if I didn’t have the feedback from the app. But I’d obviously gone about it too gently. I notice a clear difference after the app-controlled massage. My calves feel looser and I can go deeper into my stretches.

I’m really impressed with the «Recovery: Running» programme. For 13 minutes, the app gives me massage instructions from the sole of my foot to my hip flexors. I’d never have thought of softening the underside of my foot with the Theragun. But it makes sense, because after strenuous runs, your feet deserve to relax too.

I carry on with the muscles on the sides of the shins, the calves and the thigh muscles. In between, it guides me through gentle stretching exercises, with the massage gun pausing automatically. The whole thing is accompanied by relaxing instrumental music. Afterwards, I feel almost as loose and relaxed as I do after a professional massage.

Video tutorials complement the range

I personally find the app useful, but even if you’re not a fan of apps, you can benefit from Therabody’s know-how. You can find a range of videos on YouTube that explain massage techniques for various needs. Even though this is sometimes done with other devices, I still find it useful.

I tried the video instructions for the lower back. Spontaneously, I would have gone straight to the back muscles and moved the massage gun over them. Thanks to the video, however, I first work on my thigh and hip muscles, which may have caused my back to become so tense in the first place. Only at the end, when I feel more relaxed on the whole, do the back muscles get their turn. After the massage, I’m flexible and relaxed.

Verdict: a handy massage tool for athletes

The Theragun Mini 2 reliably relieved my tension and gave me a pleasant feeling of relaxation after running. It certainly can’t replace a professional sports massage, but it’s useful for loosening up before and after training. The handy size and integration with the app are clear plus points. If you’re looking for a portable massager with good app integration for warming up and recovering after exercise, the Theragun Mini 2 from Therabody might be for you.