Both massage guns and foam rollers improve recovery, but they work differently and offer distinct advantages.

Massage Gun Advantages: Faster recovery (minutes vs. 10-15 minutes), targeted precision without requiring positioning, can reach difficult areas like upper back, motorized consistency, adjustable intensity. Better for post-workout deep muscle work and addressing specific tight spots.

Foam Roller Advantages: No batteries or charging, very portable, improves body awareness through self-myofascial release, lower cost, works for larger muscle groups, provides stability benefits during exercises. Better for general maintenance and flexibility work.

The Ideal Approach: Use both! Foam rolling for general warm-up and maintenance, massage guns for targeted recovery and deep work. They complement rather than compete. Most athletes benefit from combining both tools in their recovery routine for optimal results and injury prevention.