The Best Massagers for People Who Don't Have Time to Relax

Normatec Go is a portable version of Hyperice’s air compression system. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a dedicated runner, the Normatec Go effectively reduces inflammation and blood lactate levels without requiring a full suit. It is ideal for athletes, individuals experiencing poor circulation, and those suffering from chronic pain. These calf-specific sleeves eliminate hoses and control hubs, offering a mobile solution you can wear while cooking or standing at your desk. Each wrap provides 360-degree dynamic air compression to your calves, utilizing Hyperice’s zone-based pulsing to enhance blood flow. With three overlapping compression zones and seven intensity levels, the Go also connects via Bluetooth to the Hyperice app.

The Normatec Elite ($1,099) are Hyperice’s premium full-length compression boots; we haven’t tested them, but they are a luxe choice if you’re considering full-leg coverage.

The Chirp RPM Mini is a handheld massager that combines rolling and percussive therapy. It's essentially like an electric rolling pin for your entire body, featuring three speed settings and a multi-grip handle. This cordless device is equipped with six free-spinning massage heads, 24 massage nodes, and nonabrasive rollers that won't pinch your skin. While it's effective for the whole body, I particularly enjoy using it on my calves, biceps, forearms, and palms. I find it to be gentler and more soothing on my smaller muscle groups compared to percussive guns.

The battery life is impressive as well, lasting up to four hours on a single charge. I don’t think it justifies the price tag of $150—but it’s TSA-approved for carry-on and comes with a portable case.

Bob and Brad's EZBack Massager is a back massager but also a neck massager, a shoulder massager, and even a lower body massager with a little bit of imagination. It has four kneading nodes with bidirectional movement that mimics a shiatsu massage, three intensity settings, and a heat therapy option that feels nice but probably doesn't do much for your sore muscles. It straps to your office chair for a more ergonomic massage experience, uses a remote control, and is designed with a 15-minute auto shut-off to prevent overheating. You can also omit the straps if you’d like to use them while lounging on the couch, but you’ll need to sit near a plug, unfortunately. A cordless version is available, but I have not tested it.

If you experience daily aches or a sore lower back, a heated wrap is helpful, and a vibrating one is even better. The Venom 2 Back provides consistent heat distribution across the lower back with three adjustable levels (113, 122, and 131 degrees Fahrenheit) that can be paired with three vibration patterns. It's great for back pain relief and warm-ups before mobility workouts, as it stimulates circulation and loosens the muscles in your lower back. I especially appreciate the auto shut-off function, which lets me sit back and relax, knowing I don't have to worry about turning it off. Too much heat can intensify muscle soreness or cause inflammation, and we don't want that.

Commerce director Martin Cizmar injured his knee while undertaking an “extremely large and ambitious cleaning project” and endured the pain for nearly a year before discovering a solution. The HydraKnee Pulse from Hydragun wraps around the joint and provides a blend of heat and vibration massage therapy. It can heat up to 158 degrees Fahrenheit, is rechargeable via USB-C, and features seven temperature settings along with three massage speeds. Martin mentions that he sets both options to maximum and relaxes until it shuts off automatically (after 30 minutes). The best part is its longer straps, allowing use on shoulders or larger limbs, along with a newly designed buckle suitable for slimmer limbs like elbows.

P.S.: Consult a physician or physical therapist before self-treating any injuries.