With the NYC Marathon just around the corner, excitement is in the air as runners prepare for one of the biggest challenges of their running journey. While training and mental preparation are crucial, don’t underestimate the power of recovery and muscle care. Awareness of performance and recovery is more evident than ever. Massage guns play an important role not only in performance and recovery but also in your overall maintenance on your fitness journey. I had the pleasure of taking a look at Ekrin’s Bantam Percussion Massage Gun—a compact, powerful tool that can make a significant difference for all you runners out there.
The Ekrin Bantam is notable for its size. At 50% smaller than Ekrin’s other models like the B37 or Kestrel, it easily fits into your running bag or even a small backpack. But don’t let its compact design fool you; this device packs a punch. Weighing just over a pound, the Bantam is lightweight yet robust, making it easy to carry without adding extra bulk to your gear. It’s designed with three adjustable pressure and speed settings, allowing you to tailor your experience to your specific needs. These settings are a great feature; you can choose a gentle warm-up to ease into your run or a deeper massage to relieve tightness after a long training session. Regardless, the Bantam is able to accommodate both. This versatility makes it suitable for both pre-run activation and post-run recovery, ensuring your muscles get the care they need at every step (pun intended).

For such a small device, it has an impressive battery life. The Ekrin Bantam boasts an impressive six-hour battery life. I was able to use it repeatedly throughout the day without worrying about recharging, which is especially valuable on marathon day when you’ll want to maximize your recovery time after the race. I simply let it charge overnight, and it was ready for the next day.
The device comes with four specialized attachments designed to target different muscle groups and areas of tension. Whether you need to focus on your calves, quads, glutes, or even tricky spots like your lower back, these attachments allow for a personalized massage experience. The soft, durable materials ensure comfort while effectively relieving soreness and stiffness. It also comes with a sleek carrying case, making transporting the Bantam a breeze. You don’t need to be a marathon runner either; this is for all athletes, ensuring you can take your recovery routine with you and never skip a beat. The case keeps everything organized and protected, making it a smart choice for athletes on the go.

As you gear up for the NYC Marathon, remember that preparation goes beyond just the miles you run. The Ekrin Bantam percussion massage gun is more than just a regular massage gun—it’s a quality tool that can enhance your performance and accelerate your recovery. By incorporating it into your routine, you can not only enjoy your marathon experience to the fullest but also set yourself up for success in future races. The original price is $149.99, but as of the writing of this article, it’s on sale for $105.00 directly on their site!