The best muscle massage guns

Sore after the WOD? Stiffness that keeps you from performing at your best? A massage gun is a CrossFit accessory that can help you recover better and continue training without slowing down your progress.

In this guide I compare three really worthwhile models, including an inexpensive option available on Amazon. I explain what to look for before you buy, how to use them well, and which one is best suited to your level of training.

In this guide I compare three recommended models, including a cheaper option that you can easily buy on Amazon. I explain what features to look for before buying, how to use them correctly and what is the best choice according to your profile.

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work.

Scientific evidence on percussion therapy and massage guns

Massage gun technology (or percussion therapy devices) has been the subject of recent studies. Let's see what the science says:

• In a meta-analysis of studies on massage guns, it was concluded that their short-term use improved the range of motion (ROM) and the flexibility, and may reduce the perception of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
• For example, Skinner et al. (2023) study. applied 60 s of percussion therapy in the hamstring group and found a +11.4 % improvement in ROM over the control group.
• Other review concludes that with respect to the foam rolling or manual massage, the massage guns can offer a wide range of equal or greater improvement in mobility in the short term.
• However, a recent study warns that the use of intra-workout (during rest periods between sets) at prolonged low frequency (25 Hz, 60 s) reduced the number of repetitions achieved, suggesting that timing and settings matter.
• A 2023 meta-analysis concluded that the massage guns help to improve the flexibility in muscle groups such as hamstrings, psoas and triceps suralis, although no improvements in strength or agility were observed. Source: PMC10532323
• A 2020 study evaluated the use of a pistol for 5 minutes in twins and observed an improvement of +18.4% in range of motion (ROM), without negatively affecting strength. Source: PMC7675623
• Another critical review (2024) concludes that these tools improve mobility compared to methods such as foam roller, but do not generate direct gains in strength or muscle activation in the long term. Source: ResearchGate
• A 2023 trial compared the use of post-workout pistols versus passive recovery. No significant differences were found in strength, ROM or endurance. Source: Journal of Athletic Training
• On the other hand, a recent study (2025) indicates that after muscle fatigue, the application of percussion therapy reduces tone and stiffness immediately. Source: ScienceDirect
  
  ➜ In summary:
  ✔️ Clear improvement in mobility and sense of relief
  ✔️ Effective for tense areas after training
  ⚠️ It does not replace physiotherapy for injuries or directly improve strength.
  ⚠️ Timing and frequency of use affect the results.

Implications for CrossFit

For a CrossFit athlete performing multiple WODs, this means:

• Use it before training can be useful to activate muscles and improve mobility without reducing strength if used briefly and with adequate frequency.
• Use it after training or on rest days can help speed recovery and relieve muscle stiffness.
• Avoid using it during training (between sets) without criteria, especially if the frequency is low and the time is long, because it can interfere with performance.

A massage gun can help relax the muscles after the WOD. If you also want to work at the cellular level and improve internal recovery, take a look at the analysis of the therapy with red light for CrossFit.

Recommended usage plan for a CrossFit practitioner

Here is a simple outline that you can follow or adapt:

Frequent errors and precautions

• Do not use the gun directly on prominent joints or bones.
• Do not use on acutely inflamed areas without supervision.
• Do not prolong the sessions excessively in the same area (risk of overstimulation).
• Overly aggressive settings can accumulate fatigue: in CrossFit athletes with high training loads, moderate and consistent use is more productive than very intense one-off sessions.
• Remember that does not replace the physiotherapist, especially in structural lesions.

How to use a deep tissue massager?

You can apply some force yourself with the gun in contact with the area you want to treat, or you can ask someone to help you if you want a more relaxing massage.

Depending on your muscular condition, it will be a more or less painful massage. The same as if you go to the physiotherapist for a massage and you are with more or less stiffness.

It's a faster and more convenient way to make your myofascial massage normally done with the foam roller.

If you have a percussion therapy device, you can massage yourself and relieve the tension accumulated during CrossFit sessions. It will never replace the work of a professional physiotherapist, but it will help you to reduce the muscular discomfort that accumulates in your daily life..

Heat/cold gun recommendations for CrossFit-specific use

• Before the WODSelect “heat” mode 1-2 min on quads / hamstrings / glutes to improve circulation and “soften” muscles. Then switch to standard ball head at moderate speed to activate mobility.
• After the WODYou can use the heat head for 2-3 min to relieve stiffness, then switch to the standard head at medium speed to release the muscles. If you feel very loaded localized areas, activate the cold function to alternate (heat → percussion → cold) and thus promote return circulation.
• Days of rest or active recovery: use lower speed (1,500-2,000 RPM) + heat in key areas (e.g. lower back, trapezius, glutes), hold 3-4 min per area for a smoother recovery.
• Double training days (am/pm)Use the pistol after the first workout as an active part of recovery to ensure that you arrive fresher for the second workout.

Criteria for choosing the gun

Many of the existing articles only compare amplitude, speed and battery. But now the models are evolving and incorporating extra technology that may be of interest to demanding CrossFit practitioners:

• HeatSome models include a heating plate or accessory that helps to relax the tissue before the percussion massage.
• Infrared light / LEDPromotes circulation and deep recovery.
• Specific interchangeable headsfor glutes, quads, back, calves.
• App or connectivityto record sessions, choose pre-defined programs.
• High stall force + high amplitudenecessary if you have large muscles or heavy loads as it indicates the power with which the gun can hit.

Quick model comparison

Analysis by model

Hyperice Hypervolt 2

Ideal for athletes who train 4-6 times a week and are looking for reliability, comfortable design and app compatibility.

• Amplitude: 12 mm
• Speeds: 3
• Stall force: medium-high
• Battery: 3 hours
• NoiseSilent (QuietGlide tech)
• ExtrasHyperice app, 5 heads

The best: Solid brand, good balance between power and usability.
The least goodIt does not have as much depth as top models for «deep deep» massage.

2. Theragun Prime

For those who want the strongest, whether for high muscle mass or intensive post-workout use.

• Amplitude: 16 mm
• Speeds: 5
• Stall force: high
• Battery: 2 hours
• Noise: high
• Extrassmart app, exclusive ergonomic handle

The bestActual depth of massage.
The least good: Higher price and sound.

3. Bob and Brad Q2 Mini

Perfect if you are looking for something more affordable, portable and for moderate use (activation, mobility, small areas).

• Amplitude: 7-9 mm
• Speeds: 5
• Stall force: low-medium
• Battery: up to 4 hours
• Noise: low
• ExtrasUSB-C charging, basic heads

The bestVery compact and quiet.
The least goodNot suitable for treating large or heavily loaded areas. The amplitude is really modest so it does not have the same effect as professional spray guns.

Bob & Brad Q2 Pro Mini (with cold heat head)

Ideal if you are looking for a compact, quiet gun with extra functions such as thermal head for heat or cold, perfect for active recovery and mobility.

• Amplitude: 9 mm
• Speeds: 5
• Stall force: low-medium
• Battery: up to 4 hours
• Noise: very low
• ExtrasInterchangeable head with heating and cooling function, USB-C charging, ultra-lightweight design

The bestThe option to apply heat or cold brings a plus in muscle recovery and the feeling of relief post-WOD. Very practical to take to the box or use at home.

The least goodLow amplitude, it is not recommended for large athletes or areas with a high muscle load. It does not replace more powerful models for deep work.

Theragun PRO Plus (with heat, infrared and guided breathing)

Designed for those who train at a high level and are looking for a complete recovery tool with the latest technology.

• Amplitude: 16 mm
• Speeds: 5 + custom mode
• Stall forcevery high (up to 27 kg)
• Batteryup to 150 minutes, removable battery
• Noise: medium-low (QuietForce™)
• Extras: heated head, red LED (infrared), pressure sensors, app, guided respiration

The bestThe heat and infrared function helps to deeply relax heavily loaded areas. Ideal for demanding post-workout recovery. Very complete and customizable.

The least goodThe price is high and it is not intended for occasional or light use. Its size and weight may also be excessive for those who prioritize portability.

Tips for choosing a massage gun according to your training

• Do you train demanding WODs 5-6 times per week?
  ➜ Theragun PRO Plus or Hypervolt 2
• Want to get started without spending too much?
  ➜ Bob & Brad Q2 Mini
• Looking to relieve tight areas such as calves or hamstrings?
  ➜ Choose minimum 12 mm of amplitude ➜ Hypervolt 2 or Theragun
• Are you interested in accelerating recovery with heat or cold?
  ➜ Bob & Brad Q2 Pro Mini or Theragun PRO Plus
• Do you take it to the box or do you travel frequently?
  ➜ Prioritizes compact size ➜ Q2 Mini or Q2 Pro Mini

Final recommendation

• Better balanceHyperice Hypervolt 2
• More strength and depthTheragun PRO Plus
• Advanced technology (heat and active recovery)Bob & Brad Q2 Pro Mini
• Best economical and portable optionBob & Brad Q2 Mini

My personal opinion

After trying several massage guns, I have to say that I find it very easy to use. much more comfortable to use than the foam roller, which often makes me lazy. That's why, even though I shouldn't, I can more easily skip foam roller sessions, I use the pistol almost every day.

Being more practical and faster, I have integrated it better into my routine. I apply it while watching something on the couch or right after a workout, no fuss.

Not an essential element, but if you train CrossFit consistently and seriously, I do recommend it. Helps a lot to reduce the feeling of muscle tension, This is very common when you train hard.

In my case, I do notice immediate relief, especially when I have stiffness or loaded areas such as quadriceps, calves, hamstrings and trapezius muscles, which tend to suffer more after certain WODs. I find it a useful tool to improve recovery without always having to rely on long sessions or going to the physio.

Conclusion

For a CrossFit athlete, a massage gun can be a valuable tool for activation, recovery and mobility.

But its effectiveness depends on intelligent use (timing, settings, intensity) and should be combined with structured training, rest and, if necessary, physiotherapy. Adding advanced features such as heat or infrared can make a difference when training at high frequency.

CrossFit Massage Guns FAQ