Micklewright, D. P., Beneke, R., Gladwell, V., & Sellens, M. H. (2003). Blood lactate removal using combined massage and active recovery. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 1755.

The effectiveness of combined massage-active recovery on blood lactate clearance and performance was evaluated. Ss (N = 25) were randomly assigned to one of five conditions: rest, leg massage, active cycling at 37% VO2max, combined rest and active recovery, and combined massage and active recovery. A 30-sec Wingate ride was completed, then the recovery regime was instituted, which in turn was followed by another 30-sec test ride.

Blood lactate removal was significantly greater in the active recovery groups than in the rest group. No performance differences between all groups were noted.

Implication. The addition of massage to active recovery does not produce any performance or blood lactate clearance benefit.

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