Ekrin B37S Review

The Ekrin B37S percussion massager is a strong contender in the crowded recovery tool market, distinguishing itself with a potent blend of power, portability, and thoughtful design, making it a highly effective choice for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking serious muscle relief.

It delivers a deep tissue massage that rivals professional treatments, targeting knots and soreness with remarkable precision. This device isn’t just about raw power.

It also focuses on user experience, offering a comfortable grip and a variety of attachments that cater to different muscle groups and needs.

For anyone serious about optimizing their recovery, reducing muscle stiffness, and enhancing overall performance, the Ekrin B37S presents a compelling, high-value proposition that often outperforms similarly priced — and even more expensive — alternatives.

Here’s a quick look at how the Ekrin B37S stacks up against some other popular recovery tools:

• Theragun Pro:

  

  • Key Features: Professional-grade power, rotating arm for ergonomic reach, OLED screen, customizable speed range 1750-2400 PPM, QuietForce Technology, 5 attachments, 300-minute battery life.
  • Average Price: $599
  • Pros: Industry-leading percussive therapy, highly ergonomic design, extensive app integration for guided routines, exceptionally durable.
  • Cons: Heavier and bulkier than many competitors, premium price point, can be louder than some quieter models despite “QuietForce.”

• Hypervolt Go 2:

  • Key Features: Ultra-portable 1.3 lbs, 3 speeds 2200, 2700, 3200 PPM, QuietGlide technology, 2 attachments, 3-hour battery life.
  • Average Price: $149
  • Pros: Excellent for travel, surprisingly powerful for its size, very quiet operation, simple and intuitive to use.
  • Cons: Less power and stall force than full-sized models, fewer attachment options, shorter battery life compared to premium devices.

• Renpho R3 Massager:

  • Key Features: Compact and lightweight, 5 speed levels 1800-3200 RPM, 5 attachments, USB-C charging, 10-minute auto-off timer, 2500mAh battery.
  • Average Price: $90
  • Pros: Budget-friendly, decent power for the price, good variety of attachments, very portable, quiet.
  • Cons: Less stall force and amplitude than premium models, battery life can be inconsistent, build quality feels less premium.

• Massage Gun with Carrying Case:

  • Key Features: Generic category, often includes 6-10 attachments, multiple speed settings 2000-3200 RPM, LCD touch screen, carrying case.
  • Average Price: $60
  • Pros: Very affordable, good entry-level option, often comes with many accessories, provides basic percussive therapy.
  • Cons: Variable quality and durability, lower stall force, louder operation, battery life can be unreliable, limited warranty/customer support.

• FitRx Massager:

  • Key Features: Typically includes 4-6 interchangeable head attachments, multiple speed settings, rechargeable battery, often sold at big-box retailers.
  • Average Price: $70
  • Pros: Accessible pricing, readily available, basic percussive therapy for general muscle soreness.
  • Cons: Lower power and stall force, often louder, limited battery life, less premium build quality.

• Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set:

  • Key Features: Thousands of plastic spikes, designed for acupressure points, often includes pillow for neck relief, portable.
  • Average Price: $30
  • Pros: Affordable, promotes relaxation and circulation, can relieve tension and pain, drug-free.
  • Cons: Initial discomfort, not suitable for open wounds, indirect approach to muscle relief compared to percussion guns.

• Foam Roller Set:

  • Key Features: Varying densities and textures smooth, grid, bumpy, often includes smaller rollers or massage balls, lightweight.
  • Average Price: $25
  • Pros: Extremely versatile for self-myofascial release, improves flexibility and range of motion, very affordable, no battery required.
  • Cons: Requires user effort and proper technique, can be less precise than targeted massage guns, not ideal for very deep knots.

Unpacking the Ekrin B37S: Power, Performance, and Practicality

When you’re trying to optimize your recovery and performance, you need tools that deliver, not just marketing hype. The Ekrin B37S has carved out a solid reputation in the percussive therapy space by focusing on what truly matters: power, battery life, and user-centric design. This isn’t just another massage gun. it’s engineered to provide a deep, effective massage that can genuinely impact muscle soreness, stiffness, and overall athletic recovery. The brand Ekrin Athletics has consistently aimed to bridge the gap between professional-grade devices and consumer accessibility, and the B37S is a prime example of that philosophy in action. It offers a combination of robust performance and practical features that make it a go-to for many.

The Science of Percussion: How the Ekrin B37S Delivers Results

Understanding how a percussion massager works helps you appreciate why the Ekrin B37S is effective. At its core, percussive therapy involves rapid, short-amplitude bursts of pressure delivered deep into muscle tissue. This isn’t just surface-level vibration. it’s about stimulating blood flow, reducing muscle stiffness, and breaking up adhesions or knots.

• Increased Blood Flow: The rapid percussions help to dilate blood vessels, increasing circulation to the targeted area. This delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles while simultaneously flushing out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which contribute to soreness.
• Reduced Muscle Stiffness and Soreness: By applying targeted pressure, the B37S helps to relax tense muscles, increase tissue elasticity, and alleviate trigger points. This translates directly to reduced post-workout soreness and improved range of motion.
• Neuromuscular Response: The vibrations and percussions can also influence the nervous system, potentially reducing pain signals and promoting relaxation. This is why many users feel immediate relief.
• Fascial Release: The deep tissue penetration helps to break up fascial adhesions – sticky points in the connective tissue that can restrict movement and cause pain. Releasing these allows for better muscle glide and overall flexibility.

The Ekrin B37S leverages a powerful brushless motor to deliver these benefits consistently. Unlike cheaper motors, a brushless motor provides higher torque, quieter operation, and significantly longer lifespan, ensuring the B37S can withstand rigorous daily use. This commitment to quality components directly translates into a superior and more reliable therapeutic experience.

Design and Ergonomics: Built for Real-World Use

A powerful massage gun is only as good as its usability.

The Ekrin B37S scores high marks in ergonomics and overall design, making it comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver, even during longer recovery sessions.

• Weight Distribution: One of the first things you notice is the balanced feel in your hand. At just around 2.2 pounds, it’s not the lightest on the market, but the weight is distributed well, reducing wrist and arm fatigue. This is critical when you’re trying to reach those awkward spots on your back or shoulders.
• Angled Handle: The B37S features a 15-degree angled handle, a subtle but significant design choice. This angle naturally aligns with the wrist and forearm, reducing strain and allowing for better leverage when applying pressure. It makes self-massage far more comfortable and effective, particularly for reaching your lower back or shoulder blades.
• Build Quality: The device feels solid and premium in hand, often constructed with high-quality plastics and rubberized grips that prevent slipping. This attention to detail speaks to its durability and longevity, ensuring it can withstand drops and daily wear and tear.
• Intuitive Controls: Typically, Ekrin devices feature a simple, single-button control for power and speed adjustment, keeping the user interface uncluttered and easy to learn. No complex menus or screens to navigate when you just want to get to work on those tight hamstrings.

Performance Metrics: Stall Force, Amplitude, and Speed Range

These three metrics are the core indicators of a percussion massager’s effectiveness.

The Ekrin B37S is competitive in all three, making it a serious tool for deep tissue work.

• Stall Force: This is arguably the most crucial metric. Stall force refers to the amount of pressure you can apply before the motor “stalls” or stops percussing. The Ekrin B37S typically offers a stall force in the range of 50-60 pounds 25-27 kg. This is a very respectable figure, putting it squarely in the professional-grade category. For context, many cheaper guns stall at 20-30 pounds, meaning they can’t deliver the necessary deep tissue penetration for serious knots or larger muscle groups. A higher stall force allows you to really lean into the muscle and break up stubborn adhesions without the device sputtering out.
• Amplitude Stroke Length: Amplitude is the distance the head travels back and forth. A larger amplitude generally means deeper penetration. The B37S typically features an amplitude of around 12-15mm. This is considered optimal for deep tissue work, allowing the percussion to reach beyond superficial muscle layers to target those deeper knots and fascia. Devices with smaller amplitudes e.g., 6-10mm tend to be more superficial and feel more like vibration than true percussion.
• Speed Range PPM – Percussions Per Minute: The B37S usually offers multiple speed settings, often ranging from 1400-3200 PPM.
  • Lower Speeds 1400-2000 PPM: Ideal for sensitive areas, warm-ups, or general relaxation. This gentler setting can be used for light muscle activation pre-workout or for soothing sore muscles post-workout without overstimulating them.
  • Mid-Range Speeds 2000-2600 PPM: Great for general muscle massage, breaking up light knots, and improving blood flow. This is often the go-to setting for daily recovery.
  • Higher Speeds 2600-3200 PPM: Reserved for deep tissue work, breaking up stubborn knots, or targeting larger, denser muscle groups like glutes or quads. The rapid percussions at this level can be intense but highly effective for serious recovery.

The ability to adjust these speeds allows for personalized treatment, whether you’re warming up, recovering from an intense lift, or simply trying to alleviate everyday tension.

Attachments: Versatility for Every Muscle Group

A good percussion massager isn’t just about the motor.

It’s also about the tools that connect that power to your body. Best Value Elliptical For Home Use

The Ekrin B37S typically comes with a comprehensive set of attachments, each designed for a specific purpose, maximizing its versatility.

• Ball Attachment: This is usually the most common and versatile attachment. It’s great for general use on large muscle groups like quads, hamstrings, glutes, and back. The softer material often foam or rubber makes it forgiving on broader areas.
• Bullet Attachment: Designed for pinpoint treatment. Use this for trigger points, knots, or targeting specific small areas like the soles of your feet, hands, or deep into the shoulders. Its precise nature allows for intense, focused pressure.
• Flat Head Attachment: A multi-purpose head, often made of harder plastic or rubber. Ideal for large muscle groups and denser areas that need a broader, firmer application without the intensity of the bullet. Good for chest, back, and calves.
• Fork/Spinal Attachment: Designed for use around the spine, Achilles tendons, or other areas where you want to avoid bone. The two prongs straddle the bone, allowing for direct pressure on the surrounding muscle tissue. Use this with caution and at lower speeds, especially near the spine.
• Wedge/Thumb Attachment: Excellent for scraping or “flushing” muscles, particularly around the shoulder blades, IT band, or deltoids. It mimics the action of a therapist’s thumb or elbow for deeper, more targeted release.

The inclusion of these varied heads means you can effectively target every muscle group, from the broad strokes on your hamstrings to the precise work on your neck or feet.

This versatility is crucial for a complete recovery routine.

Battery Life and Charging: Ready When You Are

Nothing’s worse than a recovery tool that dies halfway through your session. The Ekrin B37S typically boasts an impressive battery life, often ranging from 4 to 8 hours on a single charge, depending on the speed setting and intensity of use.

• Lithium-Ion Technology: Like most modern electronics, the B37S uses high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. These offer excellent power density and maintain their charge well over time.
• Fast Charging: While specifics vary by model, Ekrin usually includes a standard wall charger that can fully recharge the device in a few hours. Some newer models might even incorporate USB-C charging for added convenience, allowing you to use a common charger for multiple devices.
• Battery Indicators: Most Ekrin devices include clear LED indicators to show the remaining battery life, so you’re never caught off guard in the middle of a session.

This robust battery life ensures that the B37S is always ready for multiple recovery sessions throughout the week without constant recharging, making it practical for daily use or even for extended trips without needing to pack a charger.

Noise Level: Quiet Power for Relaxation

Nobody wants a massage gun that sounds like a jackhammer. While any powerful motor will produce some noise, the Ekrin B37S is generally lauded for its relatively quiet operation, especially compared to many budget models. This is largely due to its brushless motor and internal dampening technology.

• Decibel Levels: While specific decibel levels can vary, the B37S typically operates in the 40-60 dB range. For comparison, 40 dB is like a quiet library, and 60 dB is similar to a normal conversation. This makes it quiet enough to use while watching TV, listening to podcast, or even having a conversation without shouting over the device.
• Impact on Experience: A quieter operation significantly enhances the user experience, making recovery sessions more relaxing and less disruptive. This is a subtle but important benefit, especially if you plan to use it regularly in a shared living space or for pre-sleep relaxation.

The commitment to a quieter motor demonstrates Ekrin’s understanding that effective recovery isn’t just about power, but also about creating a comfortable and soothing experience.

Who Is the Ekrin B37S For? Ideal User Profile

The Ekrin B37S is a versatile recovery tool, but it shines brightest for specific user profiles due to its balance of power, features, and price point.

• Serious Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: If you’re consistently pushing your body in the gym, on the track, or in competitive sports, the B37S provides the deep tissue penetration and consistent performance needed for effective recovery. It’s a valuable asset for reducing DOMS Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, improving flexibility, and preparing muscles for subsequent workouts.
• Individuals with Chronic Muscle Pain or Stiffness: For those who experience persistent aches, knots, or tightness from daily activities, desk work, or previous injuries, the B37S offers significant relief. Its ability to target specific trigger points can be a must for improving comfort and mobility.
• Physical Therapy Adjunct: While not a replacement for professional medical advice or treatment, the B37S can be an excellent adjunct tool recommended by physical therapists for at-home maintenance, particularly for specific muscle groups or scar tissue work. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using such devices for medical conditions.
• Users Seeking a Balance of Price and Performance: The B37S often sits in the mid-to-high range of consumer percussion massagers, but it delivers performance that often rivals more expensive professional models. This makes it an excellent value proposition for someone who wants serious results without breaking the bank on the absolute top-tier devices.
• Anyone Prioritizing Recovery: If you understand that recovery is just as important as training for long-term health and performance, and you’re looking for a durable, effective tool to integrate into your routine, the Ekrin B37S is a solid investment.

It might be less ideal for someone looking for a super-light, ultra-portable device for casual use a Hypervolt Go 2 might be better here, or someone on an extremely tight budget who just wants basic vibration where generic models might suffice. But for real, deep muscle work, the B37S is a strong contender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ekrin B37S good for deep tissue massage?

Yes, the Ekrin B37S is highly effective for deep tissue massage due to its significant stall force typically 50-60 lbs and ample 12-15mm amplitude, allowing it to penetrate deep into muscle tissue and break up knots. 2 Nail Gun Nails

How long does the Ekrin B37S battery last?

The Ekrin B37S typically offers an impressive battery life ranging from 4 to 8 hours on a single charge, depending on the speed setting and intensity of use.

What is the stall force of the Ekrin B37S?

The Ekrin B37S typically has a stall force of around 50-60 pounds 25-27 kg, which is considered professional-grade and allows for effective deep tissue work.

How many attachments come with the Ekrin B37S?

The Ekrin B37S usually comes with 5-6 interchangeable attachments, including a ball, bullet, flat head, fork, and sometimes a wedge or thumb attachment, offering versatility for different muscle groups.

Is the Ekrin B37S noisy?

No, the Ekrin B37S is generally considered quiet for a powerful percussion massager, operating in the 40-60 dB range, similar to a quiet conversation.

Can I use the Ekrin B37S before a workout?

Yes, using the Ekrin B37S at lower speeds before a workout can help warm up muscles, increase blood flow, and improve range of motion, potentially reducing injury risk.

Can I use the Ekrin B37S after a workout?

Absolutely, using the Ekrin B37S after a workout is highly recommended to reduce muscle soreness DOMS, improve recovery, and flush out lactic acid.

Is the Ekrin B37S portable?

Yes, while not the smallest, the Ekrin B37S is reasonably portable at around 2.2 pounds and often comes with a convenient carrying case, making it easy to transport.

What is the amplitude of the Ekrin B37S?

The amplitude stroke length of the Ekrin B37S is typically 12-15mm, which is considered optimal for deep muscle penetration and effective percussive therapy.

How many speed settings does the Ekrin B37S have?

The Ekrin B37S usually features multiple speed settings, often ranging from 5 to 8 levels, allowing for a customized massage experience from gentle to intense.

Does the Ekrin B37S come with a warranty?

Yes, Ekrin Athletics typically offers a warranty for their products, often a lifetime warranty, which speaks to their confidence in the B37S’s durability and quality. The Rock Personal Gym

It’s always best to check the specific warranty terms at the time of purchase.

Can the Ekrin B37S help with sciatica?

While a percussion massager like the Ekrin B37S can help alleviate muscle tension in the glutes and lower back that might contribute to sciatica-like pain, it is not a direct treatment for the underlying nerve compression. Consult a medical professional for sciatica.

Is the Ekrin B37S good for neck and shoulder pain?

Yes, the Ekrin B37S can be very effective for relieving neck and shoulder pain caused by muscle tension and knots, especially with the use of appropriate attachments like the bullet or fork head.

Use caution and lower speeds in sensitive neck areas.

How does the Ekrin B37S compare to Theragun?

The Ekrin B37S offers comparable power stall force, amplitude and features to some Theragun models at a more competitive price, often being quieter and having a unique ergonomic angled handle.

Theragun Pro typically offers higher max stall force, more advanced app integration and rotating arm.

What is the difference between percussion and vibration massage?

Percussion massage, like that from the Ekrin B37S, uses a deeper, more targeted pounding action to penetrate muscle tissue, while vibration massage is more superficial and primarily stimulates surface tissues.

Can the Ekrin B37S be used on bones or joints?

No, it is strongly advised to avoid using the Ekrin B37S directly on bones, joints, or bony prominences to prevent injury. It is designed for use on muscle tissue.

How often should I use the Ekrin B37S?

You can use the Ekrin B37S daily for 1-2 minutes per muscle group, both before and after workouts, or throughout the day for general muscle relief. Avoid overusing any single area.

What is the weight of the Ekrin B37S?

The Ekrin B37S typically weighs around 2.2 pounds approximately 1 kg, making it well-balanced and manageable for self-massage. Air Snake Review

Does the Ekrin B37S have an auto shut-off feature?

Yes, many percussion massagers, including the Ekrin B37S, have an auto shut-off feature e.g., after 10-15 minutes of continuous use to prevent overheating and conserve battery life.

Can the Ekrin B37S help with restless leg syndrome?

While not a cure, the Ekrin B37S might temporarily help alleviate discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome by improving circulation and relaxing leg muscles.

Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Is the Ekrin B37S good for beginners?

Yes, the Ekrin B37S is suitable for beginners due to its intuitive controls and multiple speed settings, allowing users to start with lower intensities and gradually increase as they become comfortable.

What kind of motor does the Ekrin B37S use?

The Ekrin B37S utilizes a powerful brushless motor, which provides consistent performance, high torque, quiet operation, and a longer lifespan compared to brushed motors.

Can I use the Ekrin B37S if I have a pacemaker?

No, individuals with medical implants like pacemakers should not use percussion massagers without explicit clearance from their physician, as the vibrations could interfere with the device.

How do I clean the Ekrin B37S?

To clean the Ekrin B37S, wipe the exterior with a damp cloth or an alcohol-based wipe. Avoid submerging the device in water. Clean attachments as needed.

Is the angled handle of the Ekrin B37S beneficial?

Yes, the 15-degree angled handle of the Ekrin B37S is a significant ergonomic benefit, as it reduces wrist strain and allows for easier self-application, especially when reaching your back.

Can the Ekrin B37S help with plantar fasciitis?

Yes, using the Ekrin B37S especially with the bullet or ball attachment on the calves and plantar fascia of the foot can help release tension and alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

What’s included in the Ekrin B37S package?

Typically, the Ekrin B37S package includes the massage gun itself, multiple interchangeable attachments, a charger, and a protective carrying case. Best Box Bed For Side Sleepers

Does the Ekrin B37S have different pressure levels?

Yes, while it has a consistent stall force, the Ekrin B37S offers different “pressure levels” in terms of how much force you can apply before it stalls, effectively giving you control over the intensity of the massage.

Is the Ekrin B37S worth the price?

Yes, for its robust performance, durable build quality, impressive battery life, and ergonomic design, the Ekrin B37S is generally considered a strong value and a worthwhile investment for serious recovery.

Where can I buy the Ekrin B37S?

The Ekrin B37S can typically be purchased directly from the Ekrin Athletics website, as well as from authorized online retailers like Amazon or sometimes specialized fitness equipment stores.