After a hard day’s work, you decide to book a massage online to help you relax and relieve stress. Two options on the spa’s page pop up: Sports massage or deep tissue massage. Which one do you pick? 

In this article, we’ll talk about the benefits of both types of massages and when to choose one over the other. 

Deep tissue and sports massages explained

Sports massages focus on the areas of your body that are targeted during workouts and athletics — like your hamstrings and muscles. It involves long, gentle strokes and light pressure to improve blood circulation and speed up recovery after a strenuous workout or injury.

On the other hand, a deep tissue massage reduces tension and pain without the light pressure of a sports massage. It focuses on the tissue layers on top of the muscle, using firm pressure and slow strokes to break up and release knots and tension in your body. 

Which one is better: Sports massage or deep tissue massage?

The better option depends on your specific needs and what your body is telling you at a particular time. In other words, listen to your body and clearly communicate how you feel to your massage therapist. 

Here’s some general advice to guide you: 

If you’re feeling tightness in your muscles after sports or exercise, a sports massage could be the best solution to help relieve those symptoms. If you want to reduce or eliminate chronic pain, then a deep tissue massage may be more suitable. 

Why you should get a deep tissue massage

If you sit in one place for the better part of your day — and your back and neck feel like they’re giving out — you probably need a deep tissue massage. 

Deep tissue massages relieve chronic pain. Using pressure and slow movement, this type of massage naturally releases built-up tension in your muscles and joints, especially around the deep tissues in the lower back, plantar fasciitis, and fibromyalgia. It also reduces inflammation and improves blood circulation. 

If left untreated, chronic pain increases your body’s stress levels — which can cause sleep deprivation, worsen anxiety issues, and lower your energy levels throughout the day. 

What makes a deep tissue massage so great is that it can be tailored to match your specific needs. For example, you can choose the amount of pressure or the type of techniques and strokes used to target problem areas or ease tightness. And if you like, you can add aromatherapy oils, muscle balms, and stretching to reduce pain and tension during the massage further. 

How much does a deep tissue massage cost?

A deep tissue massage typically costs between $90 – $110 per session, depending on the severity of the muscles that need to be targeted, the length of the massage, and your location.

Why you should get a sports massage

Anyone who works out regularly needs a sports massage — even if you are not a professional athlete. 

A sports massage uses targeted soft tissue manipulation to work out the knots and soothe tight, fatigued muscles caused by strenuous physical activity. The therapist uses a combination of long, flowing strokes as well as short, rapid movements to boost blood circulation and get rid of waste and toxins from the affected areas.

Rather than focusing on one specific area, sports massages cover both the cause and the symptoms of discomfort. The therapeutic stretches and moderate pressure soothe your aching muscles, improving flexibility and overall physical performance.

How much does a sports massage cost? 

Like in the case of a deep tissue massage, the exact cost of a sports massage depends on several factors — like your location and therapist’s experience. 

Generally, a one-hour sports massage costs around $75 to $100. But, it is possible to get a budget sports massage in some parts of the country for as little as $30 to $50 per hour. 

Overall, many massage therapists are more than willing to work with you and your budget to ensure your health. So it’s worth looking into available options even if you have a small budget. Also, make sure you choose a licensed therapist for any kind of massage, so you can get the quality care that you deserve.

Book your massage appointments on ClassPass.

Sports massage and deep tissue massage are immensely beneficial for your body. However, your choice ultimately depends on how you feel at a specific time and what you want to achieve. 

If faster recovery and increased flexibility is your goal, then a sports massage is your go-to. On the flip side, if you experience chronic pain and need intense pressure, deep tissue massage is the better option. In the end, choosing the right treatment for your body will make all the difference in your quality of life. 

Ready to book deep tissue and sports massage treatments? Find a spa near you on ClassPass today!