I love running. I am probably not telling you anything that you don't know! Runners love to run. Runners don't necessarily like to rest. Runners don't necessarily like to stretch. Runners don't necessarily like to warm-up. Runners don't necessarily like to roll and massage. Because, we love to run.

But all of these things are absolutely important.

I understand this. It's difficult enough to schedule time for your run or workout. And it can be even more challenging to carve a few more minutes for all of the other tasks that I have already listed. I have a foam roller and a "stick" to hit those hard to target spots. I also have a lot of smaller, useless massagers laying around.

But you guys -- I received iLive’s Portable Cordless Massage Gun and this handy device is slowly changing my life. My rest days are limited. And my rest hours are limited too. But when I do have time to rest lately - in bed or binge-watching our favorite series on Netflix - I am really enjoying using this massage gun on my entire body. Using this for just a few moments on a few of my "tough spots" really has decreased my soreness and increased my range of motion.

   

  

There are six speeds available. Even the lightest level felt great on various parts of my body. The light controls on the back of the massage gun really demonstrate the level of massage you are getting.

There is also a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery. And, the USB charging cable is includee, which plugs right into the back of the massage gun and the other end into your USB charging device. It worked great and charges up quick and easy.When fully charged, the massage gun will stay charged for up to four hours.

It's great for the big muscle groups, but also the ankles, neck, hands and feet. With four massage heads included, there are a variety of specialized massages available for every single part of your body.

The round head is great for the glutes and legs (which I have really enjoyed!), but it also works great on your sore back and hands.

The flat head is great for a "regular", relaxing massage and can be used throughout the body in larger muscle groups.

The tapered head is a little more intense and feels great on the joints, palms and bottom of the feet (great for plantar fasciitis). It's also great for an intense, deep tissue massage.

The U-shaped head was my favorite - used on my ankles and achilles. It has been such a unique massage in these needed areas (especially for runners!). It has helped increase the range of motion of my ankle and released tension in tight calves. It's also great for the neck and spine if you have someone available to assist you.

 

I am thrifty and love a bargain and choose my invetments with a lot of thought. I forogt to mention -- this massage gun is affordable, too. Retailing at only $70, this makes a great investment in yourself. It also makes a great gift for your favorite person, coach or teacher. It would also make a fabulous gift for Mother's Day or Father's Day if you're looking for something a little different that also provides some level of "experience" and ongoing enjoyment instead of more "stuff". At the cost of a dinner out this is much more affordable then a weekly or bi-weekly trip to the salon - which will easily cost you a lot more. You can also use the massager daily whenever your busy schedule allows. It's a great versatile option for some excellent self-care. You deserve that.

This device is great for at home, but also for taking in your carry on for travel as well as for post-race stretching and relaxing. Don't forget to pack it!