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5 Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Massage Gun: Insider Tips and Honest Advice
Looking to buy a massage gun? There are mistakes to avoid when choosing a massage gun that only an expert can sniff out. We have done more than sniffing for you.
This is what readers have shared with us and what we have observed since we picked the first massage gun, tested it, and wrote a review. Don’t make these mistakes.
Mistake 1: Prioritizing Power
When it comes to massage guns, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “The more power, the better.” This idea often leads people to scan specification tables like they’re looking for hidden treasure, asking, “How much power does this thing pack?”
While power is the name of the game for some – think athletes, bodybuilders (if you are one, better check this guide), and those in the fitness profession – it’s not always the golden ticket for everyone.
For example, a high-powered options like the Theragun Pro or Achedaway Pro might be ideal for those who need deep and intense muscle treatment. However, for the everyday user, wielding a Theragun can be like trying to tame a spirited racehorse – a bit too challenging and possibly overwhelming.
On the other hand, a more user-friendly option like the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini, with its moderate power, can be just the ticket for the average person seeking relief from muscle tension.
Here’s the catch: A high-powered massage gun can be a bit like a bull in a china shop – tough to control and potentially overwhelming. If you’re dealing with a device that pushes past 20-25 lbs of stall force, trying to stop it can feel like trying to hold back a racehorse – challenging and maybe a tad painful.
Our Advice
It’s less about brute strength and more about balance. That has been our philosophy and was when we picked the top massage gun here.
TIP If you’re an athlete or a bodybuilder looking for a massage gun that meets your specific needs, we’ve got you covered. Check out our detailed guides: Massage Gun for Athletes and Massage Gun for Bodybuilders.
Mistake 2: Assuming Longer Amplitude is Better
It’s not just power that may corrupt (or in our case, confuse); the lure of a larger amplitude can be just as misleading.
What kind of amplitude do you think is enough, 9mm, 12mm, or 16mm?
It’s crucial to understand that amplitude impacts the massage experience, and bigger isn’t universally better.
For example, Theragun’s 16mm amplitude offers a deep, intense massage, suitable for those requiring profound muscle penetration. However, this level of intensity isn’t ideal for everyone and can be overwhelming for casual use.
Conversely, the Ekrin B37, with its close to 12mm amplitude, provides a more moderate yet effective experience. It balances depth and comfort, making it a versatile choice for a wider audience.
Remember, a lower amplitude paired with higher RPMs (up to 3200 for the B37) can offer a surprisingly efficient massage without the overpowering force.
Our Advice
It’s more about matching the amplitude to your personal needs, not the highest number. The right amplitude for you is the one that provides comfort and effectiveness, not just intensity.
TIP If for some reason amplitude is your goal, check out what else you need to look for in high-amplitude massage guns based on our tests here.
Mistake 3: Valuing Quantity of Attachments Over Quality
While we’ve seen how power certainly corrupts and how amplitude doesn’t always need to go deeper, the same principle of ‘less is more’ applies to the attachments.
It’s a common misconception that a massage gun with a myriad of attachments guarantees superior performance. However, the reality is quite different.
In practice, most attachments deliver a similar sensation, making a collection of 20 heads more about appearance than utility. For most individuals, a selection of 3-4 carefully chosen attachments is perfectly adequate. Even extending to 4-6 can be beneficial, as long as each one serves a distinct purpose.
On the flip side, we’ve seen massage guns flaunting 8, 12, or even 20 attachments that, frankly, contribute more to the marketing hype than to the massage experience.
Our Advice
Real value lies in the quality and specificity of the attachments, not in their sheer number. Opt for 4-6 for the best results.
TIP Explore more in our two dedicated posts on massage gun attachments: Construction, Types, and Materials in Massage Heads and How to Select and Use Attachments on Different Body Parts.
Mistake 4: Not Choosing a Massage Gun With a USB-C in 2024
This one’s for the tech bros – we got you!
Now, in the age where USB-C is king, overlooking this feature in a massage gun is like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole – it just doesn’t make sense.
It’s 2024, and if your massage gun still relies on a unique, one-of-a-kind charger, it’s like carrying around a relic from the past.
You probably already have a collection of USB-C cables and chargers that could power a small spaceship. So, why add another oddball to the mix?
Choosing a massage gun with a USB-C port is not just about convenience; it’s about joining the eco-friendly bandwagon. It reduces the clutter of carrying multiple cables and aligns with the modern trend of universal charging solutions.
Plus, let’s be honest, there’s a certain joy in knowing you can charge your phone, laptop, and massage gun all with the same cable – it’s like hitting a tech trifecta.
Our Advice
In 2024, a massage gun without USB-C is like a non-touchscreen smartphone – way in the Stone Age era!
Mistake 5: Skipping Independent Reviews (Yes, Including Ours)
Alright, let’s pull back the curtain for a moment – this point does serve up a slice of self-promotion, but hear us out.
In a world where every influencer and their dog seems to be endorsing a different brand of massage gun, cutting through the marketing noise is like trying to find a needle in a haystack.
That’s where independent reviews, like the ones we provide, become your trusty metal detector.
Our blog isn’t just a platform; it’s a labor of love born from genuine interest and an unquenchable passion for the truth in muscle recovery tools.
We’re the real deal – buying, testing, and comparing these devices with our own hands (and muscles). No sugar-coating, no hidden agendas, just the raw, unfiltered truth about what’s worth your time and money.
So, yes, while this may sound like a plug, it’s one we stand behind with confidence. Check out our story and dive into our blog. We bet you’ll find that perfect massage gun that feels like it was tailor-made just for you. And who knows, you might even enjoy our honest, no-frills take on things along the way!
Final Words
Now remember, you are the boss, and you can get what you want. A massage gun serves you, not the other way around. We hope these tips come in handy when you are out shopping, and that you avoid these mistakes.
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Greg Szostak
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