Sports or Swedish?
What is the difference between Sports & Swedish Massage?
People often ask what the difference is between sports and swedish massage.
Many of the techniques are the same as the muscles always need to be warmed up, and the client relaxed to get the maximum benefit out of any treatment. However, if you book a sports massage you should expect to be more involved in the session in that you may be asked to change position several times, some stretching may be involved and there will probably be more chat about what is happening. It may also be a little uncomfortable at times, but this is usually referred to as “good pain” and one of the reasons for the chat is to make sure that the therapist knows when the pain is no longer “good”! Apart from the warming up massage strokes familiar to most people other techniques mentioned on the sports massage page will be used as appropriate.
It is not usual to book a 1 hr full body sports massage - this would be too much for you and the therapist, and due to the range of techniques used it is best to spend an hour concentrating on one or two areas. If you would like a combination of a full body deep tissue massage and sports massage then please book a 1 1/2 session.
A Swedish / therapeutic or holistic massage (though sports massage should also be therapeutic and holistic!) is generally for people who want the emphasis to be on relaxation. During the consultation it is fine to mention tight / sore muscles and these can certainly be addressed during the session, but not to the same extent as in a sports massage session. During a full body (1hr) or back, neck and shoulder (1/2 hr) session the therapist will make you as comfortable as possible on the massage couch and then, apart from turning over once (I am thinking of inventing a couch that automatically flips the client over!) you won’t be asked to move (though it is fine for you to move if you aren’t comfortable).Most people find that remaining quiet and listening to music is the best way to get the most from a Swedish massage but if you are one of those people who feels more relaxed talking, or if you don’t like music then please say. It is your massage session. Generally no “good “ pain is inflicted during a swedish massage!
Every appointment starts with a consultation during which we can determine the right treatment for you.