The words snowboarding and spa probably brings up images of booze-fueled adventures in a hot tub. Although not entirely inaccurate, hot times in hot water isn't what's on my mind today. Rather, I'm thinking about health spas. My girlfriend and I recently spent a free night (free being the only way this snowboarder is going to be seen in a fluffy robe and slippers) at a local spa courtesy of some very generous friends, and being my first spa experience, I found it both worthwhile as well as fascinating.
After a few moments, the massage therapist asked, "What exactly do you do? You're not a professional athlete or something, are you?" All flattery aside, the question didn't surprise me. I just finished a winter season that saw me ski and snowboard over 130 days, so of course I'm in shape. When I asked how she could tell, she replied, "Your muscles are a roadmap of athletic injury and abuse!" It wasn't all bad news. She also pointed out that my shoulder and back muscles were "almost throwing [her] off," which she said was due to the level of tone and development. She remarked that was good, but only if the corresponding abdominal muscles were equally as strong. That's the gist behind the concept of core strength, a concept which has been touted for years as a way to prevent sports injuries.
The benefits of massage therapy have yet to be decisively proven with scientific evidence, but that's not to say the practice isn't beneficial. A large number of athletes, both professional and recreational, tout the benefits of massage. You can't swing a cat without hitting a spa at most resorts, and it really is relaxing. Not to mention (pay attention, gentlemen) it'll win you major brownie points with the girlfriend or significant other...and that may be the most worthwhile benefit of them all!
