Q
Is it good to hydrate before & after a massage ?
Yes, it’s true you should drink water before and after massage because your body is using water at a faster rate, but the key is to be drinking enough water every day. Water is vital for every function that occurs in the body and necessary to maintain healthy, hydrated muscle tissue.
Water intake before and after your massage will prevent unnecessary soreness, possible nausea, and an overall sluggish feeling following your massage.
Why do you need to hydrate before & after a massage ?
Massage treatment can cause the body to lose fluids due to sweating and increased blood flow. Additionally, during a massage, muscle movement and manipulation can cause the body to release toxins, which can dehydrate the body.


How much should you hydrate ‘before’ a massage?
Don’t overdo it right before your appointment. Try to drink at least one glass of water before the session to hydrate your muscles, but not necessarily right before your appointment.
How much should you drink ‘after’ a massage?
It is generally recommended to drink between 1-1.5 litres of water AFTER a treatment, depending on the time of day. Drinking large amounts after an evening treatment may result in you getting up a few times during the night to visit the loo!
It’s also important to stay hydrated during a treatment.
What are the side effects if you don’t drink enough water after a massage?
What happens if you don’t drink enough water after a massage?
- Muscles can become tender to touch
- Short term loss of strength
- Muscle fatigue
- Reduced range of motion due to pain & stiffness
- Swelling in affected muscles
Water helps purify your kidneys, these organs help process the key nutrients and toxins.
The water helps by flushing out the free radicals that are released during a massage and oxygenates your cells to help produce more of the GOOD stuff !
Should I drink cold water after a massage?
Definitely !!
All good therapists should always advise you to do this. Drinking water helps your body to flush out the waste products released from tense muscles during the massage.