Q: Is it normal to feel tenderness in the areas that were worked on?
A: Yes, with deeper work you can be sore in some areas for 2 or 3 days afterwards. To help reduce this soreness make sure you drink lots of water before and after your massage. Ice any areas that become sore.
Q: when is the best time to get a massage if I am an athlete preparing for an event?
A: this depends on what your goals for the massage are. If you want injury relief you need at least 3 days before an event. If you want just to relax and increase circulation then any time is okay.