Adolf Kaure

Namibian karateka Katelin Martin (28) says massages play a crucial role in helping prevent and manage high blood pressure (HBP) and diabetes.

Martin, who opened her Sports Massage Clinic in Walvis Bay in March this year, explained how the clinic contributes to the prevention of some noncommunicable diseases, among them high blood pressure and diabetes.

“With high blood pressure, it helps stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which brings about a more relaxed state, lowers heart rate and reduces cortisol levels. For diabetes, increased blood circulation can improve glucose uptake and insulin resistance.

“Sports massage also creates a relaxed state, helping the nervous system regulate hormones like cortisol and glucagon, which are responsible for blood sugar spikes. Improved circulation helps insulin spread more evenly through the body and can also ease joint pain that diabetics may suffer from,” she said.

Born and bred in Walvis Bay, the black-belt karateka has represented Namibia at numerous international championships.

However, she said the support she received in her hometown and across the country inspired her to give back to that community.

“When I finished my studies, I noticed that the active scene in my town had increased and I thought maybe sports massage is something they would need. So, I came back to my community that stood behind me my entire life, to now help them achieve their goals in sport and improve their everyday lives,” she said.

She explained how the clinic benefits both athletes and non-athletes in Walvis Bay and Namibia as a whole.

“Sports massage not only helps athletes recover faster, but with consistent therapy, it can improve performance and help the body reach an elite athletic state. For non-athletes, it helps them feel better in their bodies – less tight, more mobile – and improves their overall quality of life,” Martin elaborated.

“Your health is an investment. Take care of yourself while you can and live every day feeling great in your skin. I want to be part of the change in my town, and hopefully I can do that with my expertise.”

Martin has worked with many professional athletes, as well as at high-end events such as the Absa Cape Epic cycle event, more than once.

She said this experience, coupled with her tertiary training, has contributed to the expertise she offers to her clients.

“I’ve noticed how sports massage not only helps athletes prepare better for their respective sports, but also helps them get through events with minimal slip-ups, injuries, cramps and muscle pulls, as well as aiding recovery. You could say sports massage is like a ‘cheat code’ to being a pro athlete,” she said.

The Sports Massage Clinic offers a wide range of services, including back, neck and shoulder massages, leg treatments and full-body massages.

Sessions range from one hour to an hour and a half, and also include strapping and compression boots.

Services are also available for pregnant women. The hardworking Martin trains twice a week while running her business full-time. She employs one staff member as a receptionist, providing her with her first formal job while she studies part-time and gains work experience.

She said it is important for Namibian athletes to consider careers beyond sport, as retirement can come unexpectedly.

“For some athletes, they have to retire early due to serious injuries, so it is important to have something to fall back on,” she said.

She urged aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams, saying it benefits both individuals and their communities.

“Dream big and strive even higher.

There is no better feeling than helping people who helped build you,” she said.

-akaure@nepc.com.na