The Ultimate Recovery Guide: How to Use a Massage Gun for Post-Workout Relief (2025)
July 22, 2025
Overview
Unlock the secrets to optimal post-workout recovery with our Ultimate Recovery Guide. This in-depth article dives into the world of massage guns, explaining how these innovative devices can revolutionize your muscle recovery process. We'll cover everything from selecting the right massage gun based on your needs, exploring key features like speed settings, battery life, and attachments, to mastering the techniques for effective self-massage. Discover the benefits of percussive therapy, including reduced muscle soreness, improved circulation, and enhanced flexibility, empowering you to maximize your training and overall well-being. Get ready to transform your recovery routine and elevate your fitness game. We will also touch upon some of the best massage guns on the market.
In this guide
Our picks
The Best Massage Gun for Sore Muscles: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun, $189.97
The Most Effective Technique for Post-Workout Relief: Theragun Prime Plus, $429.99
The Best Massage Gun Features for Beginners: Bob and Brad Q2 Mini Massage Gun, $79.99
The Top Massage Guns of 2025: Our Picks: BOB AND BRAD X6 Pro Max Massage Gun, $159.99
The Best Attachment for Deep Tissue Massage: Heated Percussive Plus Attachment, $99.99
The Best Massage Gun for Enhanced Flexibility: Theragun Prime, $319.99
The Best Value Massage Gun for Budget Shoppers: Bob and Brad M7 Plus Massage Gun, $99.99
Top Massage Guns of 2025: Our Picks
Our expert recommendations for the best massage guns available, focusing on performance and value.
7.5
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Score
Turonic GM5 Massage Gun
$189.97
In our review, the Turonic GM5 Massage Gun stood out with its outstanding battery life, offering up to 8 hours of quiet operation, making it a solid mid-range choice. Although it lacks the power of premium models, its seven interchangeable heads still deliver effective relief. Ideal for those seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank, it earned a score of 7.5/10, proving its worth as a dependable recovery tool.
The Good
• The Turonic GM5 Massage Gun offers excellent battery life, quiet yet powerful operation, and a high-quality set of seven interchangeable massage heads.
The Bad
• The Turonic GM5 has been a solid and reliable in itself performance. While it isn't the most powerful massage gun out there, it can certainly get the job done.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 8 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
6.5
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Score
Bob and Brad Q2 Mini Massage Gun
$79.99
The Bob and Brad Q2 Mini Massage Gun is a compact solution for those on the move, earning a 6.5/10 in our testing. This lightweight device delivers portable relief with its quiet motor and variable speeds. Despite its affordability, the absence of a charging adapter and limited percussive power might affect its effectiveness for some users. Nevertheless, its portability makes it a good choice for minimalists and frequent travelers.
The Good
• Compact and lightweight design enhances portability.
• Quiet operation allows for discreet use.
The Bad
• Does not include a charging adapter, requiring users to provide their own.
• Lower amplitude may feel more vibrational than percussive.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 4 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
9.5
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Score
Theragun PRO Plus
$649.99
Our top-rated choice is the Theragun PRO Plus, achieving an impressive 9.5/10 score due to its power and versatility. Designed for advanced recovery, the model boasts a quieter operation than its predecessors and exceptional 16mm amplitude for intense massages. While its price and weight might deter some, the ability to incorporate Therabody’s cold therapy attachment makes it appealing to serious athletes seeking comprehensive muscle care.
The Good
• The device offers powerful 16-millimeter amplitude and five-speed settings for intense massages.
• The redesigned EQ-150 brushless motor is 20 percent quieter than the previous generation.
The Bad
• The Pro Plus is compatible with Therabody’s cold therapy attachment, but it costs an additional $89.
• Weighing 3.63 pounds without attachments, it is the heaviest Theragun model.
• Holding the device overhead for extended periods can be physically demanding.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2.5 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Moderate
8
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Score
Bob and Brad M7 Plus Massage Gun
$99.99
During our review, the Bob and Brad M7 Plus Massage Gun scored an 8/10, praised for its deep tissue massage capabilities in a portable design. Its multiple attachments provide versatility, although the battery life and separate charging requirement for the heat attachment are drawbacks. Ideal for people who need strong relief in a compact form, this device offers effective therapy, making it a valuable addition to a fitness journey.
The Good
• Compact and lightweight design enhances portability.
• Powerful motor provides effective deep tissue massage.
• Multiple attachments and adjustable speeds offer customization.
The Bad
• Heat attachment requires separate charging.
• Lowest speed setting may still be too intense for sensitive users.
• Battery life may be shorter compared to some competitors.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2-3 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
7
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Score
Lairlux EM-03 Massage Gun
$204.99
The Lairlux EM-03 Massage Gun, scoring a respectable 7/10, impressed us with its quiet operation and impressive 6-hour battery life. However, its weight and non-ergonomic grip may cause some discomfort during extended use. Despite these comfort issues, its battery performance and attachment variety make it a viable option for users prioritizing longevity over session comfort in their recovery devices.
The Good
• The massage gun operates quietly, allowing use without disturbing others.
• The battery life is exceptional, lasting up to 6 hours on a single charge.
The Bad
• The device is heavy, making prolonged use potentially fatiguing.
• The grip lacks ergonomic design, which may cause discomfort during extended use.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 6 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
7
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Score
Power Plate Pulse 2.0
$180.00
The Power Plate Pulse 2.0 offers a customizable massage experience with four intensity levels and six attachments, earning a 7/10 rating. While we found its automatic shutoff feature potentially disruptive, its quiet motor and battery life of up to 5 hours make it a versatile choice for muscle recovery routines. Its slight heft might be noticeable, but its comprehensive features justify considering it for those desiring varied treatment options.
The Good
• Offers four vibration intensity levels for a customizable massage experience.
• Comes with six different massage attachments to target various muscle groups.
• Features a whisper-quiet motor, allowing for use without disturbing others.
The Bad
• At 2.46 lbs, it is slightly heavier than some other massage guns.
• The device automatically shuts off after 10 minutes, which may interrupt longer massage sessions.
• Some users may find the price point higher compared to other entry-level massage guns.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 4-5 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
6.5
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Score
Sharper Image Powerboost Pro+ Massage Gun
$159.99
The Sharper Image Powerboost Pro+ brings both heating and cooling therapy to your recovery routine, scoring a 6.5/10 in our evaluations. While its range of attachments excels in targeting different muscle groups, we noted its weight and grip issues, which may affect comfort. Despite battery life concerns, its dual-temperature feature provides unique versatility for individuals seeking diverse therapeutic options.
The Good
• Offers dual-temperature therapy with both heating and cooling options for versatile muscle relief.
• Equipped with a whisper-quiet brushless motor for discreet operation.
• Comes with six specialized attachments to target various muscle groups effectively.
The Bad
• Some users find the device heavy and difficult to control during use.
• The grip design may be challenging for individuals with smaller hands.
• Several users have reported issues with battery life and charging functionality.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: Up to 5 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
6.5
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Score
M3 Pro Massage Gun
$129.99
In our experience, the M3 Pro Massage Gun offered a quiet operation and decent battery life, scoring 6.5/10. It lacks some flexibility due to its non-adjustable neck, which may be a limitation for users needing varied angles. Nevertheless, its durable design makes it a reliable pick for those valuing consistent performance over feature variety, delivering effective muscle relief in a compact package.
The Good
• The M3 Pro is incredibly quiet, allowing use during activities like watching TV.
• The M3 Pro has a 3-hour battery life, sufficient for 1-2 weeks of typical use.
The Bad
• The M3 Pro cannot be adjusted, lacking a rotating neck for different angles.
• The M3 Pro is slightly heavier than some premium models, which may affect prolonged use.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 3 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
7
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Score
Power+ Thermacool
$129.99
The Power+ Thermacool delivers quiet, customizable therapy with heating and cooling features, earning a score of 7/10. While we've found the absence of detailed instructions and its weight to be minor setbacks, its versatile attachments provide targeted relief to multiple muscle groups. This makes it an attractive option for users seeking enhanced recovery solutions conveniently packaged in a single device.
The Good
• The device offers a heating and cooling function for targeted temperature therapy.
• It operates quietly, with noise levels as low as 45dB.
• The massage gun comes with 6 interchangeable massage heads for different muscle groups.
The Bad
• Some users find the device slightly heavy for prolonged use.
• The heating and cooling head size may not be ideal for all muscle areas.
• The device lacks detailed instructions for the heating and cooling function.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 4 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat / Noise Level: Quiet
7.5
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Score
Theragun Prime
$319.99
The Theragun Prime, with its ergonomic design and multiple grips, offers controlled and comfortable use, scoring a 7.5/10 in our testing. Despite being noisier than expected, its powerful therapy and adjustable speeds provide effective relief, making it ideal for serious recovery seekers. Its lack of a hard carrying case might be a downside for travelers, but its versatile therapy options make it worth considering.
The Good
• The Theragun Prime features an ergonomic design with multiple grips for comfortable use.
• It offers five adjustable speed settings for customized therapy.
• The Theragun Prime includes four interchangeable attachments for versatile treatment options.
The Bad
• The device lacks a hard carrying case, providing only a soft pouch for storage.
• The noise level is higher than expected, which may be disruptive in quiet environments.
• The battery is non-replaceable, limiting long-term usability.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Moderate
6.5
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Score
Compex Fixx Mini
$127.08
In our experience, the Compex Fixx Mini is a fantastic choice for those who prioritize portability and quiet operation in a massage gun, although it scored 6.5/10 due to limited battery life and versatility. Ideal for athletes on the go, its ultra-lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry. We found the device operates at a pleasant volume, not exceeding 60 dB. However, its 1.5-hour battery life and the need to purchase additional massage heads and an extension handle separately might be drawbacks for some users.
The Good
• The device is ultra-lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and use anywhere.
• It operates quietly, not exceeding 60 dB even at maximum speed.
The Bad
• The battery life is approximately 90 minutes, which may be insufficient for extended use.
• Only one massage head is included; additional heads must be purchased separately.
• The extension handle for hard-to-reach areas is sold separately.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 1.5 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
8
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Score
Hypervolt 2 Pro
$349.00
Unlock elite recovery with the Hypervolt 2 Pro, earning an 8/10 for its versatile speed settings and impressive battery life. Our research highlights its ergonomic design and quiet operation as major strengths, providing a great user experience. The device's five speed settings allow for customized massages, although its heavier weight and higher cost might be a consideration for some. Despite lacking a carrying case, it's a top choice for serious athletes seeking performance enhancement.
The Good
• The Hypervolt 2 Pro offers five speed settings, allowing users to customize the intensity of their massage.
• The device's ergonomic design and quiet operation enhance the overall user experience.
The Bad
• The Hypervolt 2 Pro is heavier and larger than most massage guns, which may affect portability.
• The device does not come with a carrying case, which could be inconvenient for users who travel frequently.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 3 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
7
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Score
Bantam
$159.99
Need post-workout relief on the go? The Bantam, scoring a 7/10 in our review, is your ultimate travel buddy. This highly portable device offers a compact and lightweight design that easily fits into your gym bag, providing excellent value. Its 6-hour battery life is impressive, but the fixed speed settings may not suit all users. Despite the lack of a charging cube, the USB-C cable makes charging convenient, offering professional-grade recovery wherever you are.
The Good
• Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable.
The Bad
• Limited to three fixed speed settings.
• USB-C charging cable included, but no charging cube provided.
Speed Settings: Fixed / Battery Life: 6 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
7
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Score
Theragun Mini
$199.00
The Theragun Mini is your secret weapon for on-the-go relief, earning a solid 7/10 in our testing thanks to its compact design and quiet operation. Its lightweight build is perfect for weight-conscious travelers, but it might lack the power of larger models. With only one attachment, its versatility is limited without extra purchases. Nevertheless, its ergonomic design and 2.5-hour battery life make it an excellent choice for those seeking quick muscle relaxation on the move.
The Good
• The Theragun Mini is compact and lightweight, making it highly portable for on-the-go use.
• The device operates quietly, allowing for discreet use in various settings.
• The ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling during self-massage sessions.
The Bad
• The Mini comes with only one attachment, limiting versatility without additional purchases.
• Its smaller size may make it challenging to reach certain areas, such as the back of the shoulders.
• The device may lack the power of larger models, requiring more pressure for deep tissue relief.
Speed Settings: Fixed / Battery Life: 2.5 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
9
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Score
Theragun PRO
$529.99
Conquer post-workout pain with the Theragun PRO, our top-rated choice at 9/10 for its powerful deep muscle therapy. This professional-grade device offers variable speed settings and multiple attachments for versatile use, delivering targeted relief for serious athletes. Although priced on the higher side, its performance justifies the cost. Its weight and noise might be drawbacks, but for those who need intense, effective recovery, the Theragun PRO is a worthy investment to achieve peak performance.
The Good
• The Theragun Pro offers powerful performance, making it effective for deep muscle treatment.
• The device includes multiple attachments, enhancing its versatility for different muscle groups.
The Bad
• The Theragun Pro is relatively heavy, which may cause fatigue during extended use.
• The device operates at a high noise level, which can be disruptive in quiet environments.
• The Theragun Pro is priced higher than many competitors, making it a significant investment.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 5 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue / Noise Level: Loud
7.5
Listful
Score
Theragun Prime Plus
$429.99
Level up your recovery with the Theragun Prime Plus, boasting a score of 7.5/10 in our analysis for its ergonomic design and quiet operation. The device features variable speed settings and multiple attachments, including heated and deep tissue options, ensuring a comprehensive massage experience. Despite the higher price point and potential app connectivity issues, the easy grip adjustments help reduce wrist strain, making it an appealing option for those seeking comfort and performance in their recovery routine.
The Good
• The ergonomic triangular design allows for easy grip adjustments, reducing wrist and forearm strain during use.
• The device operates quietly, enhancing the user experience without causing disturbances.
The Bad
• The price point of $429.99 may be a financial barrier for some potential buyers.
• Some users may experience difficulties connecting the device to the Therabody app, requiring troubleshooting.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2.5 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
7.5
Listful
Score
HYPERVOLT 2
$199.00
Sore muscles after your workout? The HYPERVOLT 2, scoring 7.5/10 in our evaluation, offers you targeted relief with its variable speed settings and five interchangeable attachments. Its quiet operation is perfect for use in various settings, though its larger size and lack of a carrying case might be drawbacks for some. Despite its proprietary charging cable, the HYPERVOLT 2 provides effective percussive therapy, making it a solid tool for muscle recovery and overall fitness enhancement.
The Good
• The Hypervolt 2 offers three speed settings, allowing users to customize the intensity of their massage.
• The device includes five interchangeable attachments for targeting different muscle groups effectively.
• The Hypervolt 2 is relatively quiet during operation, making it suitable for use in various settings.
The Bad
• The Hypervolt 2 is larger and heavier than some other models, which may affect portability.
• The device lacks a carrying case, making it less convenient for travel or on-the-go use.
• The charging setup uses a proprietary cable, which may be less convenient compared to standard USB charging.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 3 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
7
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Score
Hypervolt Go 2
$139.00
The Hypervolt Go 2 is perfect for those who need quick and quiet muscle relief, earning a solid 7/10 in our tests. Its compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable, and the three-speed settings allow for adjustable intensity. While it lacks versatility with only two attachment heads and no app integration, its quiet operation and ease of use make it an excellent choice for travelers or anyone seeking efficient pain relief without the fuss.
The Good
• Lightweight and compact design enhances portability.
• Quiet operation allows for discreet use.
• Three speed settings provide customizable intensity.
The Bad
• Only includes two attachment heads, limiting versatility.
• Lacks Bluetooth connectivity for app integration.
• No carrying case included for storage and transport.
Speed Settings: Fixed / Battery Life: 3 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
6
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Score
TheraGun Relief by Therabody
$134.10
The TheraGun Relief offers a simplified approach to recovery, scoring 6/10 due to its quiet operation and ease of use. Lightweight and cordless, this massage gun is perfect for quick relief without any fuss. It includes three speed settings and attachments, offering targeted therapy for various needs. Its plastic build and limited reach might not cater to everyone's preferences, but it's an efficient tool for those wanting straightforward muscle pain relief on a budget.
The Good
• Lightweight design makes it easy to handle and use for extended periods without fatigue.
• Operates quietly, providing a distraction-free massage experience.
The Bad
• Limited to three attachments, which may not cater to all user preferences.
• Frame is all plastic and could have benefited from some rubber to improve the grip.
• Reaching some parts of your back may be challenging due to limited reach.
Speed Settings: Fixed / Battery Life: 2 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
6
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Score
Theragun Elite Charging Stand
$299.00
The Theragun Elite Charging Stand is an efficient space-saver with its compact design, allowing for wireless charging of the Theragun Elite without the clutter of cables. In our review, users appreciated the ease of operation but noted the lack of rubber coating on the edges, which could lead to scratches. Its score of 6/10 reflects its simplicity and convenience, though its absence of attachment storage may be a drawback for some.
The Good
• Provides a convenient and dedicated place to store and charge the Theragun Elite.
• Compact design takes up minimal space, making it suitable for various environments.
• Wireless charging eliminates the need for plugging in cables, enhancing ease of use.
The Bad
• Some users reported that the stand's sides are not rubber-coated, potentially leading to scratches on the Theragun.
• The fit can be a bit loose when placing the massager on the base, though it does not affect operation.
• Lacks storage for attachments, requiring separate organization solutions.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
8.5
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Score
Ekrin Athletics B37v2 Massage Gun
$199.99
The Ekrin Athletics B37v2 Massage Gun is an impressive choice for recovering muscles, earning an 8.5/10 in our testing. With up to 8 hours of ultra-quiet operation, it's perfect for shared spaces, while the 15-degree angled handle enhances comfort to reduce wrist strain. Although the handle may feel large for smaller hands, and the device slightly weighty, its long battery life and effectiveness provide a great balance of reliability and advanced recovery.
The Good
• The B37 offers an impressive battery life of up to 8 hours, reducing the need for frequent recharging.
• Its ultra-quiet operation allows for use in shared spaces without causing disturbance.
• The 15-degree angled handle design reduces wrist strain during extended use.
The Bad
• The handle's diameter may feel large for users with smaller hands, potentially affecting grip comfort.
• Some users find the ball attachment could be denser for more effective muscle targeting.
• The weight of the device can make it a little difficult to use depending on your capabilities.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 8 hours / Attachments: Standard / Noise Level: Quiet
7.5
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Score
BOB AND BRAD X6 Pro Max Massage Gun
$159.99
Elevate your recovery game with the BOB AND BRAD X6 Pro Max, a versatile device scoring 7.5/10 for its powerful deep tissue relief and innovative auto heat-cold therapy. Our review found its range of attachments provides flexibility, though the heat-cold feature's effectiveness varies. It's a bit heavier than some models, affecting extended use, yet its robust motor and quiet operation make it suitable for various settings and a strong contender for athletes.
The Good
• The massage gun features a powerful 150W brushless motor with an 11mm amplitude for effective deep tissue relief.
• It includes an auto heat-cold therapy head and a 100% titanium alloy metal head for versatile muscle treatment.
• The device operates quietly at 30–50 dB, making it suitable for use in various environments.
The Bad
• Some users have reported issues with the heat-cold attachment's effectiveness and battery life.
• The massage gun is slightly heavier than some similar devices, which may affect prolonged use.
• The carrying case's design may not securely hold all attachments during transport.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2-5 hours / Attachments: Standard,Heat,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Quiet
7.5
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Score
Kestrel Percussion Massager
$329.99
For a customizable and powerful massage, the Kestrel Percussion Massager offers a solid 7.5/10 rating, thanks to its 13mm stroke length and 6-speed settings. Our experience shows its angled handle design facilitates comfort when reaching difficult spots. While the noise level increases at higher settings, potentially disrupting quiet environments, the customizable power and portability make it an enticing option for those seeking deep muscle relief coupled with on-the-go convenience.
The Good
• The Kestrel offers a powerful and customizable massage experience with its 13mm stroke length and 6 speed settings.
• The Kestrel's angled handle design improves access and comfort when reaching difficult areas.
The Bad
• The Kestrel's noise level increases with higher speed settings, which may be disruptive in quiet environments.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 8 hours / Attachments: Standard,Deep Tissue,Foam / Noise Level: Moderate
Massage Gun Attachments and Their Uses
A guide to the different massage gun attachments and how they enhance your therapy sessions.
5.5
Listful
Score
Heated Percussive Plus Attachment
$99.99
Supercharge your recovery with the Heated Percussive Plus Attachment, which scored 5.5/10 due to its limited compatibility but innovative design. Compatible only with Theragun PRO Plus and Prime Plus models, this attachment combines heat and percussive therapy to dramatically accelerate muscle recovery. While it comes with moderate noise levels and improved portability, its restricted use might not suit everyone. Nonetheless, it's a remarkable addition for those seeking to enhance their existing Theragun device's therapeutic capabilities.
The Good
• Combines percussive therapy with heat to accelerate muscle recovery.
The Bad
• Compatible only with Theragun PRO Plus and Theragun Prime Plus devices.
Speed Settings: Variable / Battery Life: 2.5 hours / Attachments: Heat / Noise Level: Moderate
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