If you're preparing to run any of the UTMB Mont-Blanc races this year - whether it's MCC, OCC, CCC, TDS, or the full UTMB, chances are you're investing a lot of time and energy into your training, nutrition, gear and mindset. But what about your recovery? One of the most effective ways to prepare your body before the race and help it bounce back after is through sports massage.

At Chamonix Massage Therapy, based in Les Houches just outside Chamonix, I offer tailored sports massage treatments that go far beyond just relieving sore legs. With over 15 years of experience (I've been a qualified sports massage therapist since 2008), and having worked with some of the top trail runners and mountain athletes in the Chamonix valley, I understand what your body goes through during both training and racing in the mountains.

This guide will walk you through how to time your pre- and post-race massages, depending on your race distance, schedule, and recovery goals.

Why Sports Massage Matters During UTMB Week

Whether you're racing the 40km MCC or the epic 170km UTMB, sports massage can play a vital role in:

• Improving performance

• Identifying compensations or potential injury risks

• Enhancing mobility and flexibility

• Reducing muscle tension and soreness

• Supporting blood flow and lymphatic drainage

• Calming the nervous system

But timing is everything. If you get a deep massage too close to race day, it might leave you feeling heavy-legged or sluggish. If you wait too long after the race, you might miss the ideal window for promoting recovery.

Pre-Race Massage Timing for UTMB Races

Pre-race massage is about preparation, not deep recovery work. The goal is to loosen muscles, improve circulation, and get you feeling limber and confident without overloading the system.

MCC (40km)

Recommended timing: 1–2 days before the race

• A light, circulation-boosting massage is ideal.

• Avoid anything deep or intense — think of it as a tune-up, not a fix.

OCC (55km)

Recommended timing: 2 days before the race

• You may have more built-up tension from training. A targeted, moderate-pressure session is ideal.

CCC (100km)

Recommended timing: 2–3 days before the race

• This ultra-distance requires a thoughtful balance between easing muscular tension and leaving you race-ready.

• Allowing 48–72 hours post-treatment gives your body time to absorb the benefits and ensures you feel fresh and responsive on race day.

TDS (145km)

Recommended timing: 3 days before the race

• TDS is a demanding course. Give yourself time to absorb the treatment.

• Stay fluid on the trails with a lighter, session designed to support movement quality and flow.

 UTMB (170km)

Recommended timing: 3 days before the race

• Opt for a full-body prep session with gentle mobility work.

• Avoid deep work unless you’re used to it and know how your body responds.

Post-Race Massage Timing for UTMB Races

Post-race massage is all about recovery and repair. After running one of these epic races, your body has been through an enormous physical and emotional effort. Massage can help your body return to a resting state more quickly, reduce inflammation, and ease stiffness.

The key here is not rushing it. Deep massage too soon can actually worsen inflammation. Gentle, lymphatic-drainage style massage is ideal in the early stages.

MCC / OCC / CCC

Recommended timing: 24–48 hours post-race

• Gentle recovery massage to boost circulation, reduce DOMS, and support lymphatic drainage.

TDS / UTMB

Recommended timing: 48–72+ hours post-race

• After these ultra-distances, your muscles will need a longer window before they can benefit from hands-on work.

• Absolutely ideal is to start with  a light treatment, then build to deeper tissue work 5–7 days later.

What Makes My Approach Different?

You're not just getting a rub down — you're getting a session rooted in anatomy, performance and recovery science, adapted to the unique demands of trail runners.

• I've been a qualified sports massage therapist since 2008, working in both clinical and high-performance settings.

• I work closely with elite and recreational runners in the valley and understand the specific demands of mountain racing.

• I look not just at your muscles, but at your posture, movement patterns, injury history, and overall race-week stress.

• Whether you're chasing a podium or just aiming to finish, you receive the same high level of care and attention.

Tips for Booking During UTMB Week

• Book early: UTMB week gets busy fast. I open extra appointments that week, but they fill quickly, especially the days before and after each race.

• Consider a package: Book both your pre- and post-race massage together to receive 10% off both sessions.

• Location: My treatment space is based right on the High Street in Les Houches, with easy access by car or bus.

Common Questions

What if I’m not racing UTMB but still training hard?

I work with many athletes who are training or crewing during UTMB week. Sports massage is a great way to stay mobile, reduce tension and feel grounded.

I’m racing multiple events back-to-back — is massage still OK?

Yes, but we’ll keep things light and strategic. Let me know your full race and travel schedule.

Is massage painful?

No. Deep doesn’t have to mean painful. I always adapt pressure to your body’s needs and sensitivity, especially after a big effort.

Book Your Session

If you’re looking for experienced, professional sports massage in Chamonix or Les Houches during UTMB week, I’d love to support your journey.