Theragun Pro Plus Review: The High-End Realm Of At-Home Massage Therapy
I come back from a trail run late at night, completely covered in mud, feeling exhausted and defeated. Just a few days ago, my legs were at their peak performance, giving me the confidence to take on a spontaneous marathon. However, after enduring several challenging runs in the freezing cold, they now feel as heavy as cinder blocks, struggling with a newfound weight. Stiff and achy, I retrieve the Theragun Pro Plus from its case, press a button, and observe as the device springs to life. It's time to start the recovery process.
I have been relying on the Theragun Pro Plus for the past month whenever I experience unbearable aches and pains. As Therabody's latest top-of-the-line massage gun, it boasts impressive features, although it comes with a premium price tag. Having tested more than 14 different massage guns this year, I can confidently say that it is the most powerful and feature-rich model I have ever tried.
Prior to delving into this review, it is important to understand that the Theragun Pro Plus is not your average massage gun. It goes above and beyond by providing a multifaceted experience with its inclusion of near-infrared LED light therapy, a biometric sensor for heart rate readings, and a practical LCD display. In addition to its various attachment heads, one even incorporates a heating element to relax muscles, while another (available for separate purchase) offers cooling therapy. Furthermore, it retains its ergonomic triangular design, allowing for effortless access to different areas of your body.
Therabody Theragun Pro Plus Features
Cutting-Edge Tech Beyond Compare
The Theragun Pro Plus boasts a robust 16-millimeter amplitude that effectively targets deep muscle tissue for relief, setting it apart from its competitors. In addition to vibration therapy, it offers three heat therapy levels to warm up muscles pre-workout and relax them post-workout. Surprisingly, the heat attachment head, which I initially thought was just a gimmick, provides noticeable warmth and effective results. With the added feature of built-in near infrared LED light therapy, this massager delivers a comprehensive experience. Therabody has also integrated a biometric sensor for on-device heart rate monitoring, adding a touch of sophistication, although I personally didn't utilize this feature frequently.
Given the aforementioned considerations, it is important to acknowledge that although the Pro Plus offers a range of advanced features, not all individuals will necessitate such intricate functionality. For individuals who engage in occasional exercise or participate in recreational activities, these additional features may be excessive, particularly if their primary objective is basic recovery. The device's adaptability, which includes six attachments (dampener, standard ball, thumb, micro-point, wedge, and a vibrating head), along with a triangle grip, three speed settings, and an LCD screen, contributes to its appeal. However, these extra features may surpass the requirements of the average user.
A Heavyweight Model With Balanced Ergonomics
After trying out various Theragun models earlier this year, I have become familiar with the brand’s unique triangular design that not only reduces weight but also enhances the massager’s ability to target difficult-to-reach areas of the body. The Pro Plus boasts an ergonomic grip, making it easier to handle and apply pressure. Although I did experience some fatigue after using it for 5 to 10 minutes, adjusting my grip made a significant difference.
While the Pro Plus offers a powerful experience, it is important to mention that, weighing 3.6 pounds, it is one of the heaviest massage guns I have tested. If you are in search of a portable and travel-friendly massager, this may not be the best option for you. The focus here is on power and versatility, catering more to those who value a thorough massage and do not mind the weight. For a compact and travel-friendly option that packs a surprising punch for its size, consider checking out the Theragun Mini.
Other Features Of Note
A massage gun does not have to include additional features, but having them certainly enhances its appeal. Positioned as the flagship model in Therabody's Theragun lineup, the Pro Plus incorporates all the features found in the budget-friendly Prime and the mid-range Elite. It truly serves as a one-stop-shop, offering every possible bell and whistle you could desire from a massage gun.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that the Pro Plus comes with a carrying case that includes a spacious pocket for the device itself and another pocket for the head attachments. The heat attachment head is included as a standard feature, while the cold attachment head can be purchased separately for an additional $89. Additionally, the Pro Plus can be synced via Bluetooth to the Therabody app, which allows you to create customized speed ranges, follow guided routines, and more. Personally, I find the app less useful as I prefer to navigate through massage speeds and features directly on the device. However, if you are interested in exploring and utilizing every last feature, the app could prove to be quite handy. Ultimately, these added features make the Pro Plus a more capable and versatile device compared to others I have tested.
How Does The Theragun Pro Plus Compare?
The Theragun Pro Plus stands out from other massage guns by offering a comprehensive and intense massage experience. What sets it apart are the extra features it incorporates, such as the heated attachment head and the built-in heart rate sensor. These additional components differentiate the Pro Plus from other massage guns available to consumers, making it one of the most exceptional massage guns I have ever tried. The only drawback is the price tag, which is undeniably difficult to ignore.
How I Tested The Best Massage Guns
When evaluating the Theragun Pro Plus and other massage guns I've tested this year, I thoroughly examined every aspect of each device. This included the initial setup process and continued through the post-massage experience. I made use of every attachment head and also tested them in conjunction with the Therabody app to fully explore the range of features it offers (although the decision to use the app is ultimately up to the user).
During my testing of the Pro Plus, I paid close attention to how easily adjustments could be made to the gun's settings and how user-friendly its menus were. However, the main focus was undoubtedly on the massage experience itself. I closely monitored how my body felt before, during, and after each massage session.
I carefully documented the quality of the accessories, such as the multi-pocketed carrying case and the various attachment heads. Additionally, I compared the Pro Plus to its counterparts, including the more affordable Theragun Elite and the smaller Theragun Mini.
My Expertise
I am the gear editor for Forbes Vetted, focusing on delivering insightful content in the health and wellness equipment and outdoor gear sectors, areas that have captivated my interest for many years. With a background in kinesiology, I possess a deep knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, allowing me to comprehend the complex relationships between body systems and their environment.
My writing delves into the fusion of wellness and technology, yet my genuine enthusiasm lies in hands-on interactions with various products. From testing massage guns to preparing for ultra-marathons, I continuously strive to achieve ambitious fitness objectives that push my body to its limits, facilitating a thorough assessment of fitness merchandise.