These techniques can be applied to many regions and different points of the body depending on the goal. Target areas may include muscles, tendons, joints, the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions, arms, and legs, and are adjusted accordingly. It is crucial that these techniques are performed by physical therapists, who possess the appropriate training to identify bodily pathologies so that the suitable technique is selected based on your unique condition and needs.

The positive effects of massage are beneficial for athletes, making its application frequently necessary. It can be performed at several stages depending on the needs of each athlete and their specific sport. Sports massage is a specialized type of massage applied to athletes before, during, and after periods of intense physical activity. Its goals are to improve blood and oxygen circulation in the muscles, reduce pain, aid body recovery following injury or training, improve flexibility, and assist in removing toxins that accumulate in the muscles after intense activity.

Recovery is vital for maintaining training continuity and maximizing athletic performance. Studies show that sports massage can help athletes accelerate recovery after injury and serve as a complementary component in rehabilitation protocols to improve mobility and performance.

There are numerous sports massage techniques, each targeting different muscles and body regions. It is not a single method, but rather defined as a collection of techniques achieved through systematic manipulation of soft tissues relevant to a specific sport or training regimen.

The techniques used may be applied manually (e.g., cross-friction massage) or with specialized equipment that creates impacts and vibrations. In most cases, sports massage involves deeper pressure, as an athlete's body demands a more assertive approach, and certain maneuvers are used exclusively in sports injury rehabilitation.