When it comes to percussive therapy, the Theragun PRO’s stall force is officially rated at 60 pounds, making it one of the most powerful and effective devices on the market for deep tissue treatment. This isn’t just a number. it’s the precise amount of pressure you can apply before the motor pauses, ensuring you can truly work through knots and muscle adhesions without the device bogging down. For anyone serious about recovery, performance, or alleviating chronic muscle pain, understanding this metric is crucial because it directly translates to the depth and intensity of the treatment you can achieve. A higher stall force means the device won’t falter when you lean into it, providing consistent percussive action where you need it most. It’s about delivering targeted relief, breaking up scar tissue, and improving blood flow with the kind of power that cheaper alternatives simply can’t match. This capability sets the Theragun PRO apart, empowering users to tackle even the most stubborn muscle groups and experience significant improvements in flexibility, reduced soreness, and accelerated recovery times.
Here’s a comparison of some top percussive therapy devices and related recovery tools:
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Theragun PRO
- Key Features: 60 lbs stall force, adjustable arm for ergonomic use, OLED screen with guided routines, five speed settings 1750-2400 PPM, QuietForce Technology, smart app integration via Bluetooth.
- Average Price: $599
- Pros: Industry-leading stall force for deep tissue penetration, highly durable, quiet operation for its power, excellent ergonomics with adjustable arm, comprehensive app support.
- Cons: Premium price point, can be a bit heavy for extended use, some users find the highest speed intense.
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Theragun Elite
- Key Features: 40 lbs stall force, ergonomic multi-grip, OLED screen, five speed settings 1750-2400 PPM, QuietForce Technology, smart app integration.
- Average Price: $399
- Pros: Good balance of power and portability, quieter than previous generations, effective for general muscle recovery, more affordable than the PRO.
- Cons: Lower stall force than the PRO, not as suitable for the very deepest tissue work, less ergonomic flexibility.
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Hypervolt 2 Pro
- Key Features: Strong stall force though not officially published in lbs, it’s competitive, digital speed dial, five speed settings, pressure sensor, Bluetooth connectivity.
- Average Price: $329
- Pros: Very quiet operation, good battery life, lightweight, effective for a wide range of muscle groups, comfortable to hold.
- Cons: Stall force can be less robust than Theragun PRO for extremely deep work, lacks an adjustable arm, less intuitive speed control for some.
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Theragun Mini
- Key Features: 20 lbs stall force, compact and portable, three speed settings 1750, 2100, 2400 PPM, QuietForce Technology.
- Average Price: $199
- Pros: Extremely portable, great for travel or gym bags, surprisingly powerful for its size, very quiet.
- Cons: Lower stall force limits deep tissue effectiveness, no smart features or app integration, shorter battery life compared to larger models.
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- Key Features: 20 lbs stall force, 5 speed levels, 5 massage heads, USB-C charging, compact design.
- Average Price: $79
- Pros: Highly affordable, very portable, decent power for light to moderate use, good for beginners.
- Cons: Noticeably lower stall force and amplitude than premium brands, less durable, motor can be louder under pressure.
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Compex Ayre Compression Boots Teeter Fitspine Inversion Table Reviews
- Key Features: Dynamic pneumatic compression, portable and wireless, multiple compression chambers, targeted recovery for legs.
- Average Price: $799
- Pros: Excellent for circulatory recovery, reduces swelling, highly effective for post-workout leg fatigue, portable for compression boots.
- Cons: High price point, limited to leg recovery, not a percussive device, takes up more space than a massage gun.
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- Key Features: Multi-density foam, hollow core, varied texture for targeted compression.
- Average Price: $35
- Pros: Extremely versatile, portable, affordable, great for self-myofascial release, improves flexibility.
- Cons: Requires user effort and bodyweight, can be less precise than a percussive device, not suitable for very deep or targeted work.
Understanding Stall Force: The Heart of Percussive Therapy
Stall force is arguably the most critical specification when evaluating a percussive therapy device like the Theragun PRO. It directly quantifies how much pressure you can apply to the device before its motor ceases to operate or “stalls.” Think of it like this: if you’re trying to push through a stubborn knot in your hamstring, a device with a low stall force will stop working as soon as you apply significant pressure, rendering it ineffective for deep tissue work. Conversely, a device with a high stall force, like the Theragun PRO’s 60 pounds, will continue to deliver its percussive action, penetrating deeper into the muscle tissue to break up adhesions, increase blood flow, and release tension.
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Why it Matters:
- Depth of Treatment: A higher stall force allows for deeper tissue penetration, essential for addressing stubborn knots, scar tissue, and chronic pain.
- Consistency of Treatment: The device won’t “bog down” when you lean into it, providing consistent percussive therapy even under significant pressure.
- Effectiveness for Larger Muscles: Larger, denser muscles like glutes, quads, or traps often require more pressure to achieve therapeutic benefits. A high stall force ensures the device can handle this demand.
- Professional Use: For physical therapists, chiropractors, or high-level athletes, a robust stall force is non-negotiable for delivering effective, professional-grade treatments.
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Theragun PRO’s Edge: The 60 lbs stall force of the Theragun PRO is a testament to its powerful motor and robust engineering. Many consumer-grade massage guns have stall forces in the 20-30 lb range, which is sufficient for light warm-ups or superficial relief but often inadequate for true deep tissue work. This significant difference in stall force is a primary reason why the Theragun PRO is often considered a top-tier device for serious users. It means you can confidently apply therapeutic pressure without worrying about the device quitting on you mid-session.
The Science Behind Percussive Therapy and Its Benefits
Percussive therapy, delivered by devices like the Theragun PRO, works by rapidly applying pressure to muscle tissue.
This rapid, repetitive force, often referred to as amplitude, impacts the muscle fibers, promoting a range of physiological responses that aid in recovery, performance, and pain relief. It’s more than just a massage. it’s a targeted intervention.
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Key Mechanisms of Action:
- Increased Blood Flow: The percussive action helps to dilate blood vessels, increasing circulation to the treated area. This brings in more oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously flushing out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which contribute to soreness.
- Reduced Muscle Soreness DOMS: By increasing blood flow and potentially reducing inflammation, percussive therapy can significantly mitigate Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness DOMS after intense workouts.
- Improved Range of Motion & Flexibility: The rapid percussions help to break up fascial restrictions and scar tissue, allowing muscle fibers to glide more freely. This leads to improved flexibility and an increased range of motion around joints.
- Neurological Desensitization: The rapid impulses can help “distract” the nervous system from pain signals, providing immediate relief. It can also help to calm overactive muscles.
- Muscle Activation: Used pre-workout, percussive therapy can prime muscles, increasing their readiness for activity and potentially enhancing performance.
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Data and Examples:
- A study published in the Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research found that vibration therapy similar to percussive therapy was effective in preventing DOMS.
- Athletes often report noticeable improvements in their ability to perform specific movements or lifts after incorporating percussive therapy into their warm-up routines. For instance, a weightlifter might use it on their quads before squatting to improve depth and reduce tightness.
- Many physical therapists now integrate percussive devices into their treatment protocols for conditions like piriformis syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and various muscle strains, seeing positive outcomes in patient recovery times and pain management.
Ergonomics and Design: Beyond Just Power
While stall force and motor power are paramount, the user experience of a percussive device is heavily influenced by its ergonomic design.
The Theragun PRO stands out in this regard with its unique adjustable arm and multi-grip design. This isn’t just about comfort. Better Monitor
It’s about accessibility and the ability to effectively treat hard-to-reach areas.
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Adjustable Arm:
- The Theragun PRO features a rotatable arm that can be adjusted to four different positions. This allows users to reach their lower back, shoulders, or even parts of their glutes without straining or requiring assistance.
- Benefit: This significantly enhances the device’s versatility, making it practical for solo use on almost any muscle group. Compare this to guns with fixed handles, which often require awkward angles or a second person to treat certain areas.
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Ergonomic Multi-Grip:
- The triangular handle design of the Theragun allows for multiple grip options, distributing the weight and reducing strain on the wrist and hand during prolonged use.
- Benefit: Whether you’re treating your quads, shoulders, or using it on a client, you can find a comfortable and stable grip that minimizes fatigue. This is especially important when leveraging the full 60 lbs of stall force.
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Weight Distribution: While the Theragun PRO is a substantial device, its internal components and battery are strategically placed to balance the unit, making it feel less cumbersome during use. This attention to detail in design contributes to a smoother and more effective therapy session.
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Impact on User Compliance: A device that is comfortable and easy to use is more likely to be used consistently. If a percussive device is awkward or causes hand fatigue, users are less likely to integrate it regularly into their routine, diminishing its potential benefits. The Theragun PRO’s design directly addresses this, promoting consistent use.
Battery Life and Charging Efficiency for Professional Use
For any high-performance electronic device, especially one used for recovery or professional therapy, battery life and charging efficiency are critical considerations.
You don’t want a device that conks out in the middle of a session or takes forever to recharge.
The Theragun PRO addresses this with a dual battery system designed for continuous operation.
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Dual Swappable Batteries:
- The Theragun PRO comes with two interchangeable lithium-ion batteries. Each battery provides approximately 150 minutes 2.5 hours of continuous use.
- Benefit: This unique feature allows you to have one battery charging while the other is in use. For professionals seeing multiple clients or athletes with extensive recovery needs, this means virtually unlimited run time. There’s no downtime waiting for a single battery to recharge.
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Charging Time: Best Flippable Mattress 2025
- Each battery typically takes around 75 minutes to fully charge with the included charger.
- Benefit: This quick charging time, combined with the dual battery system, ensures that you can always have a fully charged battery ready to go, maximizing productivity.
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Impact on Portability and Travel: While the PRO is not as compact as the Mini, the swappable batteries mean you can carry an extra fully charged battery, extending its utility during travel or when power outlets are scarce. This is a significant advantage over devices with integrated, non-swappable batteries.
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Durability and Longevity: The quality of the battery impacts the overall lifespan of the device. Theragun uses high-quality lithium-ion cells, which are known for their longevity and ability to hold a charge over many cycles. This contributes to the overall robust nature of the Theragun PRO.
Speed Settings and Amplitude: Precision in Percussion
Beyond sheer power stall force, the effectiveness of a percussive therapy device also hinges on its ability to deliver varied speeds and a consistent amplitude.
The Theragun PRO offers a range of speeds, allowing users to tailor the treatment to their specific needs, from gentle warm-ups to intense deep tissue work.
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Variable Speed Settings:
- The Theragun PRO offers five scientifically calibrated speed settings: 1750, 1900, 2100, 2200, and 2400 percussions per minute PPM.
- 1750 PPM: Ideal for sensitive areas, warm-ups, or cool-downs, providing a gentle yet effective vibration.
- 2400 PPM: The most intense setting, designed for deep tissue work, breaking up knots, and addressing dense muscle groups.
- Benefit: This range allows for precise control over the treatment. You can start gently and gradually increase intensity as needed, or switch between settings to target different muscles or pain points.
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Consistent Amplitude:
- The Theragun PRO features a 16mm amplitude, meaning the head travels 16 millimeters into the muscle with each percussion. This is a crucial factor that differentiates it from many cheaper alternatives.
- Why 16mm Matters: A higher amplitude allows for deeper penetration into the muscle tissue. Many budget massage guns have amplitudes of 10-12mm, which can feel more like surface vibrations than true percussive therapy. The 16mm amplitude of the Theragun PRO ensures that the force reaches deeper layers of muscle, targeting adhesions and improving blood flow more effectively.
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QuietForce Technology:
- Despite its power, the Theragun PRO incorporates QuietForce Technology, making it significantly quieter than previous generations.
- Benefit: This means you can use it in a gym, clinic, or even at home without causing excessive noise disruption. It enhances the overall user experience and allows for more relaxed treatment sessions.
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Smart Features and App Integration:
- The Theragun PRO connects via Bluetooth to the Therabody app. This app offers guided routines, visual aids, and data tracking based on your activity and goals.
- Benefit: The app can suggest specific routines for warm-up, recovery, sleep, or pain relief, and even guide you on which attachment to use and for how long. This makes the device more accessible and ensures users are getting the most out of their investment by following expert-designed protocols.
Attachment Heads: Tailoring Your Therapy
The effectiveness of a percussive therapy device is not just about the motor.
It’s also about the versatility offered by its attachments. Proform 5000 Review
The Theragun PRO comes with a comprehensive set of scientifically designed attachment heads, each crafted for specific therapeutic purposes, allowing for highly targeted and effective treatment.
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Standard Ball:
- Purpose: General use on large and small muscle groups. It’s a good starting point for most areas.
- Material: Non-porous closed-cell foam, making it easy to clean.
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Dampener:
- Purpose: For tender areas or near bones, providing a softer impact. Ideal for general use and sensitive spots.
- Material: Softer, open-cell foam.
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Thumb:
- Purpose: Mimics a human thumb, excellent for trigger points, deep knots, and the lower back.
- Material: Hard plastic for focused pressure.
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Wedge:
- Purpose: Perfect for scraping and “flushing” muscles, such as the shoulder blades or IT bands, and for breaking up fascia.
- Material: Hard plastic with a flat, angled surface.
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Cone:
- Purpose: Pinpoint treatment for very small areas, specific trigger points, and feet.
- Material: Hard plastic with a narrow, pointed tip.
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Supersoft:
- Purpose: The softest attachment, designed for extremely sensitive areas, bones, or for very light vibration therapy.
- Material: Extra-soft, open-cell foam.
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Why Multiple Attachments Matter:
- Targeted Treatment: You wouldn’t use a hammer for every job, and the same applies here. Each attachment allows for precise targeting, whether you’re trying to release a tiny knot in your trapezius or flush out your quads.
- Comfort and Safety: Using the appropriate attachment prevents discomfort or potential injury by ensuring the right amount of pressure and surface area is applied to different parts of the body.
- Versatility: The range of attachments transforms the Theragun PRO from a simple massage device into a versatile recovery tool capable of addressing a multitude of muscle issues.
Investment and Value: Is the Theragun PRO Worth It?
The Theragun PRO is a premium device, and its price point reflects its advanced features, robust build, and professional-grade performance.
When considering the investment, it’s essential to weigh its capabilities against your specific needs and the long-term value it provides. Luggage T
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Factors Justifying the Price:
- 60 lbs Stall Force: This is its standout feature, offering unparalleled deep tissue penetration that cheaper devices simply cannot match. For serious athletes, chronic pain sufferers, or professionals, this capability is invaluable.
- Adjustable Arm & Ergonomics: The unique design significantly enhances usability and accessibility, reducing user fatigue and allowing for solo treatment of virtually any body part.
- QuietForce Technology: Delivering powerful percussions without excessive noise is a significant engineering feat that adds to the user experience.
- Dual Swappable Batteries: This ensures continuous operation, making it ideal for professional settings or extended personal use without downtime.
- Comprehensive App Integration: The smart app provides guided routines and personalized therapy, maximizing the effectiveness of the device and educating the user.
- Build Quality & Durability: Theragun devices are known for their robust construction, designed to withstand rigorous use over time. This translates to a longer lifespan and better return on investment.
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Who Benefits Most:
- Professional Athletes: For those whose livelihood depends on peak physical performance and rapid recovery, the PRO is an essential tool.
- Fitness Enthusiasts & Bodybuilders: Individuals engaging in intense training will find immense value in its ability to accelerate recovery and prevent injuries.
- Physical Therapists & Chiropractors: The PRO can be a valuable extension of their practice, offering an effective tool for patient care.
- Individuals with Chronic Muscle Pain/Stiffness: For those suffering from persistent knots, back pain, or limited mobility, the deep tissue capabilities can provide significant relief that other devices cannot.
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Value Proposition: While the initial cost is high, consider the alternatives: regular professional massages, physical therapy sessions, or managing chronic pain with less effective tools. Over time, the Theragun PRO can offer significant savings and a higher quality of life through consistent, on-demand percussive therapy. It’s an investment in your body’s longevity and performance.
Question
What is the official stall force of the Theragun PRO?
Answer
The official stall force of the Theragun PRO is 60 pounds, meaning it can withstand up to 60 pounds of pressure before the motor pauses.
Why is stall force an important specification for a percussive therapy device?
Stall force is crucial because it determines how much pressure you can apply to the device before it stops working.
A higher stall force allows for deeper tissue penetration, making the device more effective for breaking up stubborn knots and treating dense muscle groups.
How does the Theragun PRO’s stall force compare to other massage guns?
The Theragun PRO’s 60 lbs stall force is among the highest in the market, significantly exceeding many consumer-grade massage guns which typically offer 20-40 lbs of stall force. Nectar Mattress Cooling Reviews
This makes it suitable for professional and deep tissue applications.
Does a higher stall force mean a more painful massage?
Not necessarily. While a higher stall force allows for more intense pressure, the Theragun PRO also offers multiple speed settings and various attachments, allowing users to adjust the intensity to their comfort level. It provides the option for deep pressure, not a mandatory one.
What is “amplitude” in relation to the Theragun PRO?
Amplitude refers to how far the percussive head travels into the muscle with each stroke.
The Theragun PRO has a 16mm amplitude, which is considered deep, allowing the device to effectively reach deeper muscle layers for therapeutic benefits.
How does the Theragun PRO’s amplitude compare to other devices?
The 16mm amplitude of the Theragun PRO is typically greater than many competitors, which often have amplitudes in the 10-12mm range.
This difference contributes to the Theragun PRO’s superior deep tissue penetration.
What is QuietForce Technology in the Theragun PRO?
QuietForce Technology is Theragun’s proprietary motor design that minimizes noise output without compromising power. Plastic Bottle Greenhouse Mini
This makes the Theragun PRO significantly quieter than previous models and many other percussive devices, enhancing the user experience.
How many speed settings does the Theragun PRO have?
The Theragun PRO features five scientifically calibrated speed settings: 1750, 1900, 2100, 2200, and 2400 percussions per minute PPM.
Can the Theragun PRO be used by professionals?
Yes, absolutely.
With its high stall force, adjustable arm, dual batteries, and robust build, the Theragun PRO is designed and marketed for professional use by physical therapists, chiropractors, trainers, and elite athletes.
What is the battery life of the Theragun PRO?
The Theragun PRO comes with two swappable lithium-ion batteries, each providing approximately 150 minutes 2.5 hours of continuous use.
This allows for virtually unlimited runtime by swapping batteries.
How long does it take to charge a Theragun PRO battery?
Each battery for the Theragun PRO typically takes around 75 minutes to fully charge using the included charger. Rogue Work Out
Why does the Theragun PRO have an adjustable arm?
The adjustable arm allows for greater ergonomic flexibility, enabling users to comfortably reach different muscle groups like the lower back or shoulders without straining or requiring assistance.
This enhances the device’s versatility for solo use.
What types of attachments come with the Theragun PRO?
The Theragun PRO typically comes with six attachments: Standard Ball, Dampener, Thumb, Wedge, Cone, and Supersoft, each designed for specific uses and body areas.
What is the purpose of the Supersoft attachment?
The Supersoft attachment is the gentlest head, designed for extremely sensitive areas, bony parts, or for very light, broad vibration therapy.
Can the Theragun PRO connect to a smartphone app?
Yes, the Theragun PRO features Bluetooth connectivity and can pair with the Therabody app, which offers guided routines, personalized therapy suggestions, and data tracking.
Is the Theragun PRO effective for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness DOMS? Problem Falling Asleep
Yes, percussive therapy with devices like the Theragun PRO is highly effective for reducing DOMS by increasing blood flow, flushing out metabolic waste, and promoting muscle recovery.
Can the Theragun PRO help with flexibility?
Yes, by breaking up fascial adhesions and improving muscle tissue elasticity, the Theragun PRO can significantly contribute to improved flexibility and increased range of motion.
Is the Theragun PRO suitable for chronic pain relief?
Many users find the Theragun PRO effective for chronic muscle pain relief, particularly for deep-seated knots and tension, due to its high stall force and deep amplitude.
It can help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility.
How does the Theragun PRO’s price compare to similar devices?
The Theragun PRO is typically positioned at the higher end of the percussive therapy device market, reflecting its professional-grade features, build quality, and advanced technology.
Is the Theragun PRO heavy to hold?
While robust, the Theragun PRO’s ergonomic multi-grip and balanced design help distribute its weight, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods, especially with its adjustable arm. Best Power Rack With Attachments
Can I use the Theragun PRO for warm-ups before exercise?
Yes, using the Theragun PRO for a few minutes on target muscle groups before exercise can help increase blood flow, activate muscles, and improve range of motion, preparing your body for activity.
What is the difference between the Theragun PRO and the Theragun Elite?
The main differences include the PRO’s higher stall force 60 lbs vs. 40 lbs, adjustable arm, and dual swappable batteries, making it more suited for professional and heavy-duty use compared to the Elite’s more consumer-focused design.
Can the Theragun PRO be used on bones?
It is generally recommended to avoid direct contact with bones.
The Supersoft attachment is designed for sensitive areas or near bones, but direct percussion on bony prominences should be avoided.
How loud is the Theragun PRO?
Thanks to QuietForce Technology, the Theragun PRO is considerably quieter than earlier Theragun models and many competing high-power devices, making it more pleasant to use in various environments.
Is the Theragun PRO waterproof? Best Elliptical Under 300
No, the Theragun PRO is not waterproof and should not be used in or exposed to water.
Can I travel with the Theragun PRO?
Yes, you can travel with the Theragun PRO.
Ensure it’s stored in its protective case, and always check airline regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries if flying.
It’s usually best to carry batteries in your carry-on luggage.
How often should I use the Theragun PRO?
Usage depends on your needs. For warm-up, 30 seconds per muscle group. for recovery, 1-2 minutes per muscle group.
For pain relief, use as needed, but always consult a healthcare professional for persistent issues.
Does the Theragun PRO come with a warranty?
Yes, Theragun products typically come with a limited warranty.
Specific warranty details can be found on the manufacturer’s website or included with the product packaging.
Can I use the Theragun PRO on my neck? Ways To Make Money Working From Home
Use extreme caution and a low speed setting e.g., 1750 PPM with a softer attachment like the Dampener or Supersoft on the neck, avoiding the spine and carotid artery.
For sensitive areas, it’s often best to consult a professional.
What maintenance does the Theragun PRO require?
The Theragun PRO requires minimal maintenance, primarily keeping it clean by wiping it down with a damp cloth after use.
The attachments are also easy to clean with mild soap and water. Ensure it’s stored properly in its case.
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