As recovery becomes an increasingly essential element of fitness, not just for pros with access to trainers and physical therapists, but also for everyday athletes, the group of products that facilitate it is getting broader and broader. A standout in the category is percussion massage guns, which mimic techniques a masseuse might use to increase blood flow to problem areas, reduce soreness and inflammation, and break up knots. As it turns out, one of the top brands in the space has roots in Kobe Bryant's training regimen.
According to a story published by ESPN, Bryant spent summers in the late part of his career training at the University of California Irvine, and it was there that he met Anthony Katz. Katz had an idea for cooling leg wraps that might replace the ice bags he saw Bryant using on his knees at games. Without any business experience, Katz pitched the idea to the basketball star, and the pair worked together to produce various prototypes that Katz called Hyperice, after Bryant's Nike Hyperdunk shoes.
Hyperice produces more than ice wraps now — its line includes heat pads, massage balls and, notably, percussion massagers. The Hypervolt, which recently got a big upgrade, is one of the most popular units available (its silent operation and low relative price earned it a spot as our top pick). And, thanks to a recent multi-year deal between Hyperice and the NBA, every player will have access to one at games.
