Massage guns are handheld devices that use rapid percussive therapy to increase blood flow and improve circulation, loosening up tight underlying soft tissues and helping to reduce perceptions of pain or soreness. Just about everyone can benefit from the precise, restorative massage that these devices provide, says Dr. Karena Wu, PT, DPT, OCS.

We also spoke to three experts to discuss what to look for when selecting a message gun. Experts we spoke to included: Massage guns that provided rapid relief and decreased muscle soreness scored high on our list, along with products that were easy to use, ergonomic, versatile, and quiet. Those that didn’t make our list were bulky, noisy, inefficient, and provided little control—these massage guns missed the mark on one or more key attributes. In recent times, a fair few Mumsnetters have been asking for advice on how to ease muscle pain after exercise and there seems to be one overriding answer: personal massage guns. As one satisfied Mumsnetter, ShirleyPhallus, reports: “I have a massage gun and it’s absolutely amazing. Gets rid of the DOMS pretty much right away.”

The device felt lightweight and easy to maneuver, according to our tester, who was also impressed with how quiet it is. Plus, this massage gun comes with a carrying case and long-lasting battery life, so you can take it on the go.

Also helpful for beginners, the massage gun includes an instruction booklet with how-to guides and graphics. “I like that it came with a carrying case,” our tester said. “The massage guns I already own don't come with a case, so having one makes for easy transport.” The muscle guns below, marked with our Women’s Health Lab Approved logo, have been put to the test in our lab. Our expert tester has trialled them over a three-week period, using them around their hectic exercise schedule — made up of weightlifting, running, HIIT, yoga and more — to see how well each one helped muscles to recover.

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In other words, myofascial trigger points are the pesky, marble-like knots that you feel just under your skin. And massage guns can help to relieve this discomfort, pain, and limited mobility. The benefit of using a massage gun is that it helps pump fluid so that your body clears that lactic acid, and you can have a faster recovery time,” she adds. “They’re great for at-home, regular use to help loosen up tight muscles—without needing to leave the comfort of your own home and book a regular massage.” Sonic LX Quiet Pro Percussion Massage Gun: While our tester was impressed by this massage gun's intensity, they found it to be too harsh for use above the hips. Professional Deep Tissue Massage Gun: ANSEGC professional electric handheld massage gun uses percussion therapy to relieve muscle soreness and accelerate recovery, which efficiently helps relax your stiff muscles, breakdown knots, boost blood flow or prevent DOMS, to increase your flexibility, extend your range of motion. Gives your professional relaxing massage experience, Anytime, Anywhere. Battery life - a couple of massage guns on our list have batteries which will keep going for eight hours; other massage guns will need charging more frequently