What You Need to Know When Buying a Massage Gun

There are so many options available on the market today surrounding massage guns. Some can fit in the palm of your hand, while others are the size of industrial equipment, with most offering a long list of features and specifications, leaving many wondering what the right option is for them.

Whether you're an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone looking for at-home solutions for muscle relief and rehabilitation, a massage gun can be a valuable tool. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know to make an informed decision on the right massage gun for you.

What is a Body Massage Gun?

A body massage gun, also known as a percussive massager, is a handheld device that provides deep tissue massage through rapid, pulsating strokes. The device applies these strokes to penetrate deep into muscle tissue through dedicated pressure points, helping to relieve pain, reduce muscle soreness, and improve blood flow. Massage guns have become popular for their effectiveness in promoting recovery and enhancing relaxation while proving a more affordable and cost-effective option when traditional massage isn’t possible.

What is the Science of Massage Guns?

The science behind massage guns stems from percussive therapy, which uses rapid bursts of pressure to stimulate our muscles. Studies have shown that percussive massage can:

Increase blood flow to the targeted area, helping to flush out lactic acid and other metabolites that cause muscle fatigue.
Enhance muscle recovery by reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
Improve range of motion, making it easier to perform daily activities and exercise.
Reduce pain perception, making workouts and physical activity more comfortable.

For instance, a 2020 study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that using a massage gun on calf muscles for just five minutes significantly increased the participants' range of motion.

How to Use a Massage Gun Safely on Your Body

While a massage gun can help deliver direct benefits, correct use is necessary to avoid injury and maximise results:

Start Slowly: Handheld massage guns are available with various intensity settings to meet your needs. Begin with the lowest setting and gradually increase the intensity as your muscles adjust.
Target Muscles, Not Joints: Handheld massage guns are built to help relieve muscle tension and improve range of motion, so avoid using the massage gun directly on joints or bones.
Limit Session Length: Use the massage gun on each muscle group for no more than 1-2 minutes. The total number of sessions should be 10-15 minutes at most.
Listen to Your Body: Stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort. Overuse in isolated areas can damage muscles.
Consult Professionals: If you have any medical conditions, consult a healthcare provider before using a massage gun.

Must-Have Massage Gun Features

When choosing a massage gun, consider these essential features to ensure you get the most out of your purchase:

Ability to Change Speed Settings

Muscles vary depending on their location in your body, their size, and the degree of strain they have been put under. As such, different muscles require different levels of intensity. Higher speeds are great for large muscle groups, while lower speeds are better for sensitive areas, so look for a massage gun with multiple speed settings to customise your experience.

Ergonomic Recommendations

Without a masseuse on hand, you will be handling the massage gun yourself, often for extended periods of time in a certain position. An ergonomic design ensures the massage gun is comfortable and easy to hold, even for extended periods. Find models with features like adjustable handles or grips that fit well in your hand.

User Friendliness & Portability

A user-friendly interface makes it easy to operate the massage gun without complicated controls. Additionally, consider the gun's weight and portability if you plan to use it on the go. Lightweight models are easier to handle and travel with.

Stroke Depth/Amplitude

Stroke depth, or amplitude, refers to how deep the massage gun's head penetrates the muscle tissue. Deeper strokes (around 12-16mm) are more effective for deep tissue massage, while shallower strokes are better for surface-level treatment.

Compatibility with Attachments

Versatility is key when choosing a massage gun. Look for models with various attachments designed for different muscle groups and needs.

Common attachments include:

Ball: General use for large muscle groups.
Bullet: Targeting specific trigger points.
Fork: Suitable for spine and neck areas.
Flat: For general full-body massage.

The Best Massage Guns in Australia to Buy

Given all of the benefits outlined above, we have brought together some of the best handheld massagers available in Australia:

1.Homedics Pro Massage Gun

The Homedics Pro Massage Gun PGM-1000-AU alleviates muscle fatigue and pain through its six different massage heads, including one that offers both heat and cooling gel for targeted muscle relief.

Features include:

Heads: 3 intensities and 6 interchangeable attachments put you in control of your massage experience.
Nodes: Deep Tissue Techniques + Hot & Cool Head Attachments
Features: 3.5-hour Run Time
Level: 3 Levels of intensity
Controls: Easy-to-use twist speed- ergonomic control
Battery: Adaptor Included (15V 2A)
Model: PGM-1000-AU

The Homedics Pro Massage Gun has six interchangeable attachments, a quick-start guide, a mains charger, a storage case, and a one-year warranty.

2. Percussion Physio Plus Massager

Experience enhanced muscle recovery with the Homedics Physio Plus Percussion Massage Gun! The device offers a refreshing spot massage function, optimised vibrations, and varied intensities for superior performance and convenience.

Features include:

Heads: 3 intensities and four interchangeable attachments
Nodes: Deep Tissue Techniques
Features: 4-hour Run Time
Level: 3 Levels of intensity
Controls: Easy-to-use twist speed- ergonomic control
Battery: Lithium Ion
Model: PGM-400-AU

The Physio Plus Percussion Massage Gun includes four interchangeable attachments, a quick start guide, a mains charger, and a one-year warranty.

3. Novo Percussion Massager

The Homedics Novo Massager is your go-to for relaxation and muscle recovery. This compact device is engineered for optimal recovery, making it perfect for your on-the-go lifestyle.

Features include:

Heads: 4 interchangeable attachments
Nodes: 3 levels included – restore, revitalise & pressure
Features: 3.5-hour Run Time
Level: Strong, Medium & Soft levels of intensity
Controls: Lightweight and portable motions
Battery: Adaptor Included (15V 2A)
Model: PGM-45-AU

The Homedics Novo Percussion Massager has four interchangeable attachments, a quick-start guide, a mains charger, a storage case, and a one-year warranty.

4. Quatro Mini Massager

The Quatro Mini Massager offers a compact and powerful solution for targeted muscle relief. Its small design and strong massaging capabilities provide the benefits of an intense massage in a convenient, easy-to-use device.

Features include: