How to properly apply Reboots
Jessica Steiner
Do you want to get the most out of your recovery and know how to use Reboots correctly? Then you are exactly right here! In this article, you will learn how to optimally use our compression massage devices – whether before training, after it, or for pure relaxation. We give you valuable tips on how to boost your performance and accelerate your recovery.
Time of application
When to best use your Reboots
The use of Reboots is generally suitable for all athletes, regardless of performance level. Whether you are a professional athlete or just train regularly – compression massage can help you recover faster and improve your performance in the long term. However, if you have cardiovascular diseases or other contraindications, we always recommend consulting a doctor and/or physiotherapist before use. At the end of this blog post, we will also explain in more detail which contraindications require prior clarification.
Basically, you can use the Reboots before and after sports, or whenever you just feel like some relaxation. Due to our wide selection of programs, you will always find a suitable sequence. Our mobile devices, which you can control via the app, offer you a description of each program directly in the app and tips on when to use them best. For our stationary devices, you can easily read this in the manual. To give you a better understanding of how to best use our Recovery Pants, we will now take a closer look at the different areas of application.
Throughout the article, you will repeatedly encounter program names, each assigned to a letter on your Reboots device. If you're not familiar with this yet, don't worry! Simply visit our program overview, or read it in the Reboots app, or your user manual. This way, you'll be well-prepared to choose the right program for your needs.
Application before sports
Yes, you can also use the Reboots before sports to prepare your muscles for the upcoming exertion. The application should take place about an hour before training and should not last longer than 10-15 minutes. A low pressure is recommended to gently activate the muscles without tiring them. A suitable program for muscle relaxation is, for example, “Flow” or “Impulse.”
Application after sports
The best time to use Reboots after training is within the first hour after exertion, as your lymph flow is still active and your body thus actively supports the effect of the Reboots. Ideally, you should start immediately after training to achieve the greatest possible effect. If that's not possible, you can make up for the application later. However, make sure to activate your lymphatic system beforehand – for example, through a short physical exertion (e.g., climbing stairs for five minutes, a short walk...).
For the best support of regeneration, we recommend programs like Intense, Intense Flow, and Intense Pulse. These programs promote the removal of metabolic waste products, especially at a pressure of about 120 mmHg or pressure levels 8-10.
In general, however, we always recommend a gradual application for the optimal Recovery effect: An ideal session consists of three phases, each lasting about 15 minutes:
- Introduction: Transport program (e.g., Intense Flow) at low pressure.
- Main part: Activation or massage program (e.g., Flow) at the highest possible pressure, as long as it does not cause pain or contraindications allow it.
- Conclusion: Renewed transport program (e.g., Intense Flow) at low pressure.
Rule of thumb: Backflow is prevented when the "pre-chambers" remain filled - for example, when the second chamber from the bottom fills with air and the first chamber remains filled. Programs for the introductory and concluding parts should be selected with low pressure, as they mainly work through the lymphatic system. Programs for the main part should be selected with a higher pressure setting to achieve a "massage" function.
We offer a wide range of massage programs with all our compression massage products, so that the Reboots massage can be tailored to your needs and effectively support your recovery through the different phases.
Application for relaxation
You have a rest day, are injured, or just feel like some extra relaxation? Even then, we recommend a Reboots session to loosen or lightly activate your muscles. Especially during longer breaks due to injury, the massage with Reboots can have a positive effect on your healing process. If the injured area is too sensitive or if pressure would be counterproductive, you can simply deactivate the corresponding chambers on all our devices to still enjoy a soothing massage. If you prefer a compression massage tailored to your needs, we recommend our Reboots One Pro, or for maximum personalization, our Reboots Go X. Here you can not only deactivate the chambers but also individually select the pressure of each chamber.
How long should a session last?
A typical regeneration session should last between 30 and 60 minutes. The duration can be adjusted according to the intensity of the training and individual needs. The battery life of our mobile devices is up to 90 minutes. This way, you can complete several Recovery sessions on the go without needing to recharge in between.
Application time depending on training goal
The application of Reboots depends less on the type of sport practiced and more on the goal of your training. Whether you are a runner, footballer, or strength athlete – what matters is what you want to achieve with your training.
For endurance athletes or athletes in competition preparation, the recommendation is clear: The compression massage should be applied as soon as possible after training - as described in the previous section.
However, there is an exception that is particularly important for strength athletes and athletes focusing on muscle building. In these cases, the direct application of compression massage after training can weaken or even interrupt the training-effective stimulus. To avoid this effect, you should use the Reboots only a few hours after training. This gives your body enough time to make the desired muscular adjustments before you specifically support the regeneration process.
Application in case of contraindications and further tips for optimal use
As already mentioned, there are some health restrictions where caution is advised when using compression massage - especially with high pressure. If you suffer from any of the following conditions or impairments, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor or physiotherapist beforehand:
- Cardiovascular problems: especially with high blood pressure, particularly poorly controlled hypertension.
- Vascular diseases and thromboses: such as thrombophlebitis, existing or suspected thromboses, inflamed veins, and inflammations on skin areas (e.g., erysipelas).
- Injuries or open wounds: e.g., fresh soft tissue injuries or wounds that have not yet healed.
- Circulatory disorders and vascular constrictions: such as arteriosclerosis, venous circulation problems, or neuropathies that could impair lymphatic drainage.
- Skin diseases: such as dermatitis or other inflammatory skin conditions.
- Serious illnesses: such as pulmonary edema and malignant tumors.
None of the mentioned contraindications apply to you? Even better! Then we have a few tips for the optimal use of your Reboots:
- Posture: While using, you should relax in a supine position with elevated legs. Your heart should be slightly higher than your toes to maximize the effect. When using the Arm Cuffs, the arms should be slightly elevated and laid down relaxed.
- Hydration: Make sure to drink enough fluids after use to support the lymphatic system.
- Mental Relaxation: Promote your mental relaxation during the session through deep and even abdominal breathing and conscious relaxation techniques.
- Cleaning: You should clean your Reboots regularly, especially if you use them immediately after your training session. The easiest way is to fully open them with the zipper and wipe them with an alcohol-free disinfectant wipe.
- Storage: For storage, you can simply fold the Reboots on top of each other and roll them up loosely (with the attached hose set). Even better would be storing them in a designated bag. We recommend the Reboots Backpacks, or our Reboots Softcase.
Conclusion
The correct application of Reboots can be a real game changer for your recovery, whether you are a professional athlete or a recreational sports enthusiast. With targeted programs before and after training, you can optimally prepare your muscles for exertion and efficiently support your recovery process. Even for relaxation or during injury breaks, the Reboots offer a soothing massage that can be tailored to your individual needs. With the right application – from choosing the program to the optimal duration – you get the most out of your recovery routine and promote your long-term performance.