As a long time user of numerous “torture devices” aka recovery tools, I was excited to get my hands on the Theragun Mini. I’ve been using it now for about 6 weeks as part of my regular pre and post run maintenance and recovery. Is the Theragun Mini worth the price and the hype? Here’s my quick review.
Is the Theragun Mini Worth The Price and The Hype?
Spoiler alert-yes it is. But first, a quick primer on what a Theragun does and why you might want to use one.
What’s percussive therapy?
The Theragun Mini is a form of percussive therapy. Basically, it uses vibration and force to relieve muscle soreness and aches. Numerous professional athletes began using these types of devices a few years back which then brought them into the mainstream. They are designed with athletes in mind to break up muscle knots and increase blood flow to the area. Since we cannot get professional massages after every workout, this is where something like a Theragun can be useful.
The Theragun mini is just what it sounds like. A smaller version of the original Theragun product. While the original version can cost up to $499, this smaller option is much more affordable at $199. It is currently available in black, red and white.
Top Features of the Theragun Mini
Quiet– It is much quieter than other massage guns I have tried. I am able to watch tv or talk on the phone while using it.
Portability-The size is perfect to take along in a carry bag or fit into a large purse. It is not much bigger than my hand and comes with a travel case.
Battery life- When fully charged, it provides 150 minutes of use. For me that is about 10 uses. It comes with a wall charger.
Ease of use– Theragun Mini has an ergonomic design that fits right into your hand for easy use. The rubbery tip size makes it perfect to access both smaller and larger muscle groups. There is just one button for easy turn on and off.
Strength- There are 3 different PPMs depending on how much pressure you are looking for.
Cost- The mini retails for $199 and is the least expensive of the Theragun brands.
Cons of the Theragun Mini
Attachments– Only one attachment comes with the device. However, you can purchase extra ones that are compatible.
Strength– The mini is not quite as strong as the larger versions.
Cost- At $199 it is still an investment.
Overall thoughts
I am a huge fan! the Theragun Mini has become my go-to for a quick warm-up of my muscles before my run. I spend more time post-run hitting my hot spots like claves, arches of feet, and glute area. I really like the ergonomic design, lightweight, and portability. Perfect for travel and post-race aches. It’s durable, easy to charge, and has long battery life. It’s a keeper in my book! A fabulous addition to my recovery plan that I find myself reaching for daily.
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Thanks for the review.
I would never spend the $ for a Theragun but there are so many no name brands.
I love mine.
But a smaller portable one would be great to travel with.
I bought a lesser expensive brand twice and they both broke after a short time. I am really happy with this one so far
I LOVE mine!!!!! I use it both for warm-up and cool-down, as well as for just general “foam-rolling” purposes.
It has become one of my go to recovery tools as well
Do you have both the mini and the regular theragun? Are there times when you feel like the mini just isn’t strong enough? I’ve never tried them but so many people love it. Just wondering if you feel like the mini is good enough for all purposes. Thanks!
I have a larger sized one of another brand that I don’t like as much as the theragun mini. I find it to be great for all my needs at the moment and yes I do find it is good for all purposes
Oh, glad to see this review. I’ve tried the full model and it is loud. I couldn’t use it while watching tv.
I am loving it!
I am sure someday I’ll purchase a massage gun to add to my every growing collection of SMR tools.
Right now I use the Tiger Tail, which is a tiny little foam roller I bought at my very first half 10 years ago, to do a quick warm up before a run — or the stick (purchased at the same time) if I’m driving to where I run.
I love my vibrating ball!
Thorough review Deborah, thanks!
I do have one of those tiger tails from many years ago. Too much work 🙂 I like the percussive relief!
such an interesting product, I’ve never heard of it and it’s sounds like this mini version is as good as the bigger one.
I am really enjoying it feels really good
I might have to get this for my husband. His legs are always aching, so this could help with that! He’s in the military so he’s on his feet a lot.
yes it would be a great gift!
I have a larger massage gun which I love, but I think it would be great to have something more portable, especially for travel.
Thanks for linking up!
I find its much easier to use than my larger one. I really like it
This is great! I have seen them on Instagram and was curious about it. I didn’t realize a regular size one was that much. I paid less for mine (different brand) and love it. It is big though and I like that this one is more compact and easier to transport.
I really like the size of this one it’s super handy
definitely like the sound of this – I still see a massage gun in my future but I have to financially spread out these investments so maybe next year? I just bought massage boots because I got a deal but that was also quite pricey.
We just have to invest in things if we want the best possible recovery, right?
yes investing in recovery does make a huge difference for me as well.
Ohhh nice! I need to try to get one of these for my post runs. This is such a good tool for recovery and it’s good to know it really does seem to help.
I really find it very helpful!
Great review! Might be something to look into for those long weekends playing softball
Definitely useful for that too
I looked at the Mini when I bought myself a massage gun last year and the lack of multiple attachments is what had me looking at other ideas. I think in a world where racecations are back, I’d factor in the portability element higher and could see myself getting one in addition to the multiple-head (off brand) one I have for home use.
Downstairs from our meetup point for marathon training was a Sugarfina, always tempting. It’s now a Theragun store. If that had been there during training I’d own one by now for sure. Would totally be an “ouch I’m sore” purchase
I am loving the mini and may purchase an attachment for it as well. Tough choice between Sugarfina and theragun lol
I have heard such great things about this!!! I need to get my hands on one. I have such sore muscles
I am really enjoying mine!
I love my Mini! I actually have two, one a bought myself plus the one that came with the Dick’s campaign. And I actually have a lot of others too, since people seem to like to send them to me to try out. :-).
Anyway, the Mini is my favorite. I keep it by my bed and use it before I put on my running shoes, massaging my feet, legs, and butt. I also have the benefit of a lot of extra attachments because I have an older, larger Theragun and all the pieces fit.
I really love it too. It packs a lot of power into that small thing! I was thinking of ordering some of the attachments