Massage Gun Power - How Much Is Enough? Amplitude vs Stall Force vs Speed

Summary

In this informative review, Scott from 'Before You Buy' discusses the critical features to consider when purchasing a massage gun: speed, amplitude, and stall force. He explains that amplitude is the distance the massage head travels, with 10-12mm being average and less leading to less effective hits. Stall force, the pressure needed to stop the gun, is vital for deep muscle work. Speed, usually with at least three settings, is less crucial. Scott emphasizes the importance of matching these features to individual needs, whether for a professional athlete or a busy individual seeking relief. His honest approach ensures viewers get a massage gun that fits their lifestyle and requirements.

Takeaways

• 🔧 Amplitude is the distance the massage gun head travels, with 10-12mm being average and 16mm offering a deeper massage.
• 💪 A massage gun needs sufficient power to effectively massage and loosen muscles, otherwise it might as well be useless.
• 🛑 Stall force is the pressure required to stop the massage gun, indicating its ability to penetrate deep into muscles effectively.
• 🔨 Low amplitude without sufficient stall force means the massage gun won't provide the necessary 'hit' or deep muscle impact.
• 👶 Scott shares a personal anecdote about a child's vibrating toy as an example of low amplitude and stall force leading to ineffective massage.
• 🔄 Speed is generally the least important factor as most massage guns offer at least three speed settings to suit different preferences.
• 🔊 Noise increases with power and amplitude, but it's a trade-off for deeper muscle penetration and effectiveness.
• 🎚️ While some massage guns offer up to 20 speed settings, most users find three to be sufficient for varying muscle groups.
• 👜 Portability and quiet operation can compensate for a slightly lower amplitude if the stall force is still effective.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Consider your physical needs and activity level when choosing a massage gun; professional athletes might need higher amplitude and stall force.
• 👍 Scott emphasizes the importance of honest reviews and providing value, suggesting that not everyone needs the most powerful massage gun.

Q & A

What are the three key factors to consider when evaluating massage guns according to Scott?

The three key factors to consider when evaluating massage guns are speed, amplitude, and stall force.

What does amplitude refer to in the context of massage guns?

Amplitude refers to how far the massage gun head travels back and forth, which determines the depth and intensity of the massage.

What is the average amplitude range for massage guns?

The average amplitude range for massage guns is typically between 10 to 12 millimeters, with 12 millimeters being a common standard.

Why is having a sufficient amplitude important for a massage gun?

Having a sufficient amplitude is important because it ensures the massage gun can effectively reach and work on deeper muscle layers, rather than just lightly vibrating on the surface.

What is stall force and how does it relate to the effectiveness of a massage gun?

Stall force is the amount of pressure it takes to stop a massage gun. It is important because it indicates whether the massage gun can provide enough force to effectively massage muscles and not just vibrate without penetrating deep enough.

How does the mini massage gun with only six millimeters of travel compensate for its lower amplitude?

The mini massage gun compensates for its lower amplitude with a strong stall force, allowing it to still provide a decent massage even though it doesn't penetrate as deeply.

What is the general opinion on the number of speed settings on a massage gun?

Most massage guns have at least three speed settings, which is usually sufficient for most users. Having more than three speeds is not necessarily better, as it can be difficult to distinguish between many closely spaced speed levels.

Why might someone choose a massage gun with fewer speed settings?

Someone might choose a massage gun with fewer speed settings because it simplifies the user experience and reduces the need to micro-manage the speed, focusing instead on the essential differences between low, medium, and high.

What are some trade-offs to consider when choosing between a larger massage gun with higher amplitude and a smaller, more portable one?

When choosing between a larger massage gun and a smaller one, one must consider the trade-off between the depth and intensity of the massage (higher amplitude) and the convenience of portability and lower noise levels.

How does Scott determine the value of a massage gun?

Scott determines the value of a massage gun by weighing its features such as amplitude, stall force, and speed against its portability, noise level, and suitability for the user's specific needs and lifestyle.

What advice does Scott give for users who may not need the most powerful massage gun?

Scott advises that users who are not professional athletes or those with very specific muscle needs may be able to get by with a smaller, less powerful massage gun, as long as it has adequate stall force and is convenient for their lifestyle.