Massage can enhance athletes’ conditioning and performance, reduce injury potential, and aid injury rehabilitation. Understanding Sports Massage offers comprehensive information on how to use massage in any sports setting and focuses on these topics: • The theoretical basis for sports massage • Various applications of massage for athletes--restorative, event-related, and maintenance • Massage and adjunct techniques • The effects of each technique • Tips on giving massage • How to plan and give a massage • How to set up a sports massage program • Contraindications and cautions Understanding Sports Massage will help athletic trainers, sports physical therapists, massage specialists, and other sports medicine professionals ensure the health and enhance the performance of their athletes.