Are you someone who struggles with sore muscles, stiff joints, or just general tension in your body? If so, you may want to consider investing in a massage gun. These powerful devices use percussive therapy to target specific areas of the body, providing deep tissue massage that can help improve circulation, increase flexibility, and aid in muscle recovery.
But what exactly is a massage gun and how does it work? Simply put, a massage gun uses a rapid pulsing motion to penetrate deep into the muscles, breaking up knots and tension. This helps to increase blood flow and oxygenation to the muscles, which can aid in recovery and reduce soreness.
The benefits of using a massage gun are many. It can help reduce inflammation, improve the range of motion, and alleviate muscle soreness and tension. Whether you’re an athlete looking to improve your performance, someone recovering from an injury, or simply looking for a way to unwind after a long day, a massage gun can help.
If you’re interested in reaping the benefits of a massage gun, we’ve got you covered. We’ve researched the best massage guns on the market to help you find the one that’s right for you. So say goodbye to sore muscles and hello to a new level of relaxation and recovery.
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Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best Massage Gun NZ
When choosing a massage gun, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best one for your needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the best massage gun:
Purpose:
There are two main categories of massage gun users: those who require high-performance devices for therapeutic purposes, and hobbyists who need a massage gun for leisure.
For serious buyers who require advanced therapy but do not want to spend too much, there are still value options available. However, these may not cater to their specific requirements.
It is recommended that hobbyists opt for affordable massage guns, while those who require more serious therapy should invest in high-end devices that will truly serve their purpose.
Stall Force:
Stall force refers to the amount of pressure a massage gun can apply before stalling. A massage gun with higher stall force can apply deeper pressure to muscles and connective tissues.
Look for a massage gun with at least 30-40 lbs of stall force for effective deep tissue massage. The 50+ lbs are recommended for a highly intense massage.
Stroke Length:
Stroke length refers to the distance the massage head travels back and forth. A longer stroke length allows for deeper penetration into muscles and can target larger muscle groups.
For soft tissue therapy, a stroke length of 10-12 mm is recommended, while for deep tissue massage, a stroke length of 13-16 mm is preferred. So, be sure to choose a massage gun with a stroke length that suits your needs to get the best results.
Speed:
A massage gun’s speed range can vary widely, but generally, the faster the speed, the more intense the massage. Look for a massage gun with a range of speed settings to customize your massage.
Massage guns with more than three-speed options are best for sound therapy, but make sure the speed options match your needs. Don’t assume that price dictates the quality of speed options. Also, pay attention to the range of speed, measured in PPM or PPS.
While some expensive models may offer great options, their speed range can be narrow. Aim for a standard speed range of 1400-2800 percussions per minute.
Design & Ergonomics:
Massage guns come in different designs to suit different needs.
The triangular framework design is popular as it allows for a comfortable grip and ease of use. The triangular shape fits well in the hand and ensures that the weight is evenly distributed, reducing the risk of hand fatigue.
The jigsaw frame design is another option, which allows the massager to reach difficult areas of the body, like the back and shoulders, with ease. The jigsaw design allows for greater flexibility and mobility, making it easier to target specific areas.
Standard handheld massagers are also available and are often the most affordable option. These massagers usually come with a handle that fits comfortably in the hand, and they may have interchangeable heads to provide different massage experiences.
Weight:
The weight of a massage gun is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods. Most massage guns range in weight from 1.5 to 3.5 pounds, with some models weighing less or more.
Lightweight massage guns are generally easier to handle and manoeuvre, which can be helpful if you plan to use the massager on hard-to-reach areas or for an extended period. However, very lightweight models may not provide enough pressure to penetrate deep into the muscles.
Battery Life:
Most massage guns come with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that offer varying levels of battery life.
The average battery life for a massage gun ranges from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the model and the intensity of use. Some high-end models may offer longer battery life, while others may have shorter battery life. If you plan to use the massager for extended periods or frequently, choose a model with a longer battery life.
Noise Level:
When considering the noise level of a massage gun, it’s important to choose one that produces less than 50 decibels (dB) of sound. This is considered very quiet and ensures that the massage experience is relaxing and comfortable.
If the noise level is between 60-70 dB, it’s still acceptable and standard, but it may not be as quiet as some people prefer. Anything above 70 dB is considered loud and may be too disruptive to use in a peaceful environment. So, it’s best to opt for a massage gun that produces minimal noise for a more enjoyable experience.
Attachments:
Attachments are additional components that come with a massage gun to enhance the massage experience. There are various attachments available, and each serves a specific purpose.
Some common attachments include a ball head, which is ideal for large muscle groups, a bullet head for pinpoint targeting of specific muscles, a forkhead for massaging the spine, a flat head for general use, and a curved head for hard-to-reach areas.
Some massage guns come with multiple attachments, while others may only have a few. It’s important to choose a massage gun with attachments that suit your specific needs and preferences for an effective and enjoyable massage experience.
Plastic vs Metal:
Plastic massage guns are lighter and more affordable but may not be as durable or powerful as metal ones. Metal massage guns are sturdier and more powerful but can be heavier and more expensive. The choice between plastic and metal ultimately depends on personal preference, budget, and intended use.
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The Best Massage Guns NZ
1. Musclegun Massage Gun
The Muscle Gun is a handheld percussion massager designed to provide deep-tissue massage to relieve muscle tension and soreness. It features multiple speed settings and interchangeable massage heads for targeted muscle therapy. The compact and portable design makes it convenient to use at home or on the go. With a powerful motor capable of up to 3200 percussions per minute, the Muscle Gun can promote muscle recovery by increasing blood flow and reducing lactic acid buildup. Its long battery life and noise-reducing technology make it a versatile and effective tool for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
2. Ape Basic Massage Gun
This electric muscle massager is a lightweight, handheld device that is designed to provide deep, effective and painless muscle relief. This device has been designed with a precise alignment of the 6 different massage head tips to help it reach all the muscles in the body.
In addition to this, the massager features a powerful motor that offers effective vibration therapy for speedy muscle relaxation. It is also equipped with rechargeable lithium batteries (with an estimated runtime of 5-6 hours after each charge) and silent operation. Its design allows it to be ideal for users of different age groups as well.
3. Electric Muscle Massage Gun
The Muscle Gun is a product that provides a deep, yet soft and relaxing massage. It has an LCD display with touch buttons for 20 different speeds to choose from. With this gun, you can relax muscle tension and get rid of knots. The gun has 6 different heads for your body massage. It also offers a heated massage surface with a heat-dissipating function. It also comes with a 45db silent vibration mode for a nice experience in privacy without disturbing others or making too much noise.
4. Portable Pocket Mini Massage Gun
Portable Pocket Massager Gun is a lightweight, durable and portable device. It massages your muscles so that they can relax and give you the comfort that you crave from the pain. This particular massage gun has 4-speed settings to provide a personalized experience for you.
It also offers you a humanized intelligent interactive experience. It comes with a vibration function to help relax the muscle and 6 massage heads to provide relieve muscle pain and stiffness.
5. Ape Basics Massage Gun
Ape Basics Massage Gun is a great tool to provide relieve muscle pain and stiffness. It is an ergonomic, compact design with a metal body that vibrates using technology which is based on the principle of hammering it moves through the muscles. The massager also has five different speeds so you can choose your preferred speed depending on the intensity of your massage. There are four hours of battery life for the mode of operation, which can be charged for up to six hours.
6. Fraser Country Massage Gun
The Fraser Country: Electric Massage Gun is a great massage gun for relieving muscle pain and stiffness due to its ergonomic grip and compact design which will allow you to get that message in the comforts of your own home. It has a low noise level with a Smart indicator display which will allow you to be aware of how much battery power you have left.
It has 7 massage heads and 3 variable speeds which will allow you to choose the right massage setting to match your condition. The Smart battery runs for 4–6 hours, which is a good enough run time when compared to some other massage guns available in the market today.
7. Therabody Theragun Liv Massage Gun
This is a professional high-performance muscle massaging tool which is used to release tension and pain. It is lightweight and compact with a comfortable ergonomic multi-grip. It increases circulation to help flush lactic acid, thus helping to naturally soothe pain and reduce soreness. The high-performance motor is designed to provide 40 Percussions Per Second to achieve optimal results. The battery life is 45 minutes which is enough time to fully relax and enjoy your massage session.
8. Steady-State Premium+ Massage Gun
The Steady-State Premium+ Massage Gun is a high-performance handheld massage tool that provides up to 4000 strokes per minute of deep tissue stimulation with six different speed settings. This versatile device also comes with six attachments for targeted muscle relief throughout the body, including a kneading head for back pain relief. It has a 7-hour battery running time.
9. Beurer Compact Massage Gun
This best Massage Gun provides a tailored massage with three intensity settings and four interchangeable massage heads. It has hours of battery backup for continuous use, allowing you to customize your massage experience from soft to intense through the power of vibration. You can choose from four different attachments that address specific muscle groups.
10. Spector Massage Gun 90° Rotatable 
Spector’s best Massage Gun is a portable and rechargeable deep-tissue percussion massager. It has 4 different massage heads to relieve muscle tension in your back, shoulders or calves. The 5 adjustable speeds can be used for muscle stimulation, relaxation and pain relief. The 2000mAh Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery allows you to use it for 6 hours before recharging it again.
FAQ’s
Who should use a massage gun?
Massage guns can be used by anyone who wants to relieve muscle soreness, improve blood circulation, or reduce tension. They are particularly useful for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and people with physically demanding jobs. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before using a massage gun, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
How often can you use a massage gun?
The frequency of using a massage gun depends on the individual’s needs and the intensity of their physical activity. Generally, it’s recommended to use it for 2-3 minutes per muscle group, 1-3 times a day, with breaks in between. However, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overusing it to prevent injury.
Can massage guns be harmful?
The best Massage guns are generally safe to use. But it is essential that you read the instructions in the manual carefully before using a massager. You have to make sure that you hold the massage gun correctly and do not put too much pressure on your skin when using a massager. If you use a massage gun incorrectly then you can damage the muscles and ligaments in your body.
How to use the massage gun NZ?
To use a massage gun, simply turn it on, choose the appropriate attachment head, and apply it to the desired area of the body. Move the gun in circular motions, starting with low pressure and gradually increasing intensity as needed. Use for 2-3 minutes per muscle group and up to 15 minutes per session.
Is a massage gun better than a massage?
Massage guns offer convenience, affordability and customization compared to traditional massages. With various settings and attachments, they can promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension and aid in post-workout recovery. Perfect for at-home use and on the go, they’re a versatile tool for anyone with an active lifestyle.
Are massage guns good for back pain?
Massage guns can be effective for relieving back pain, as they provide targeted deep-tissue massage to sore muscles. They can help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and loosen tight muscles, all of which can contribute to alleviating back pain. However, it’s important to use them properly and consult with a healthcare professional if you have a serious or chronic condition.
Are massage guns worth it?
Massage guns can be worth it for individuals who require regular muscle recovery or pain relief. They can help improve blood flow, reduce muscle soreness and tension, and provide a cost-effective alternative to professional massages.
