massage
22 types of massages: which massage suits your body?
Whether you are an avid athlete, run regularly, or simply want to keep moving smoothly: a massage can help your body recover better, reduce muscle tension, and keep moving comfortably.
There are dozens of types of massages, each with its own purpose. Some are aimed at muscle recovery after a workout, while others help with relaxation, mobility, or stress reduction.
In this overview, you will discover the 22 most well-known types of massages, when you can use them, and which massage best suits your situation.
What types of massages are there?
The best-known types of massage include sports massage, relaxation massage, trigger point massage, Swedish massage, Thai massage, hot stone massage, Shiatsu, reflexology, and lymphatic drainage. Which massage suits you best depends on your goal. Do you want to recover faster after exercising, loosen stiff muscles, or simply relax completely? There is a suitable massage for every situation.
Massages for muscle recovery and supple muscles
1. Sports massage
Sports massage is one of the best-known massages for athletes. The massage stimulates blood circulation, helps muscles relax, and supports recovery after intensive training or a competition. Sports massage is also regularly applied before exertion to prepare muscles for strain.
2. Trigger point massage
Do you suffer from hard, sensitive spots in your muscles? Then a trigger point massage can offer a solution. The massage targets these muscle knots with focused pressure, which can reduce tension and often increase freedom of movement.
3. Swedish massage
Swedish massage is perhaps the best-known classic massage. Through strokes, kneading, and gentle movements, muscles are loosened, and the body often feels more supple. A good choice if you want to combine relaxation with attention to your muscles.
4. Thai massage
In a Thai massage, massage is combined with stretching techniques. As a result, this massage is popular among people who feel stiff or want to improve their mobility.
5. Hot stone massage
During a hot stone massage, warm stones are used to deeply relax the muscles. Many people choose this massage, especially after busy or intense periods, because of the comfortable and relaxing sensation.
Relaxing massages
6. Chair massage
A chair massage typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes and focuses on the neck, shoulders, and back. It is ideal if you sit at a desk a lot or need a quick pick-me-up.
7. Aromatherapy massage
In this massage, essential oils are combined with gentle massage techniques. Many people experience this as a pleasant way to relax body and mind.
8. Balinese massage
Balinese massage combines various techniques, including acupressure and aromatherapy.The massage is known for its relaxing nature and is often chosen during wellness treatments.
9. Lomi Lomi massage
This traditional Hawaiian massage is characterized by long, flowing movements over the body. The massage focuses primarily on relaxation and creating a sense of balance.
10. Children's massage
Children's massage is specially developed for babies and children. The gentle techniques are aimed at relaxation and calm and are often used to help children feel more comfortable.
Massages for balance and relaxation
11. Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage in which pressure is applied to various points of the body. According to this traditional method, this helps to support the energy balance.
12. Reiki
Reiki is not a massage in the classical sense, but an energetic treatment method in which the practitioner holds their hands on or just above the body. The goal is relaxation and a sense of balance.
13. Reflexology
Reflexology is a treatment method in which pressure is applied to specific points on the feet. According to this method, these points are connected to various parts of the body.
14. Acupressure
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but uses pressure instead of needles. Within traditional Chinese medicine, this technique is used to support the flow of energy.
15. Lymphatic drainage
Lymphatic drainage is a very gentle form of massage intended to support the drainage of lymphatic fluid. This technique is regularly used after surgeries, injuries, or for fluid retention.
Traditional and specialized massages
16. Anma massage
A traditional Japanese form of massage that is considered a precursor to shiatsu. The massage combines pressure, friction, and rhythmic movements.
17. Tui Na
Tui Na is a traditional Chinese massage in which various techniques are used to treat muscles and joints. It is a widely used treatment method within Chinese medicine.
18. Kum Nye
Kum Nye is a form of Tibetan massage that combines gentle movements with a focus on relaxation and body awareness.
19. Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage)
Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic massage using warm oils. The massage is aimed at relaxation and is considered within Ayurveda as part of a healthy lifestyle.
NB: The term *Sweda massage* is frequently used, but usually refers to *Swedana*: an Ayurvedic heat therapy, and not to a separate form of massage.
20. Tantra massage
Tantra massage is a specialized form of massage in which attention, breathing, and relaxation are central.
21. Metamorphosis Massage
This gentle massage focuses on relaxation and is often chosen by people who need rest during a busy or stressful period.
22. Ayurvedic massage
A collective term for various traditional Indian massages using warm herbal oils. The treatment focuses on relaxation and balance.
Why are massages beneficial for athletes?
For athletes, a massage is not just about relaxation. The right massage can contribute to comfortable movement and recovery between training sessions.
Many athletes choose a massage to:
- to keep muscles supple;
- to reduce muscle tension;
- to support recovery after a workout;
- to start the next effort in a relaxed manner.
A massage is particularly effective as part of a broader recovery routine that includes sufficient rest, good nutrition, and proper muscle care.
When do you choose which massage?
Unsure which massage suits you best? Use this overview as a guideline.
- After a heavy workout or with muscle pain: sports massage or trigger point massage.
- In case of stiff muscles or reduced mobility: Thai massage.
- In case of stress or fatigue: aromatherapy, Balinese massage or Lomi Lomi.
- In case of fluid retention or after surgery: Lymphatic drainage (on the advice of a practitioner).
- For relaxation and balance: shiatsu or reflexology.
Get more out of your recovery between massages
A massage can do a lot, but what you do between your workouts often makes the biggest difference.
By taking good care of your muscles before, during, and after every workout, you support your recovery and continue moving comfortably.
Read also:
Do you regularly get a massage? Then products such as massage oil or muscle gel can be a valuable addition to your recovery routine. Take a look at, for example, the Fast Recovery Gel or discover which products suit your sports moment.
Frequently asked questions about types of massages
What is the best massage for muscle pain?
Sports massage and trigger point massage are the most popular choices for muscle pain or tense muscles.
Which massage is best after exercising?
Many athletes opt for a sports massage after an intensive workout to relax the muscles and support recovery.
What is the difference between sports massage and relaxation massage?
Sports massage focuses primarily on muscles strained by sports or exercise. A relaxation massage, on the other hand, aims to bring body and mind to rest.
Which massage helps with stress?
Aromatherapy, Lomi Lomi, Balinese massage, and hot stone massage are often chosen by people who want to relax.
Are massages good for muscle recovery?
A massage can contribute to muscle relaxation and is used by many athletes as part of their recovery routine. Sufficient sleep, nutrition, and active recovery remain at least as important.
How often is a massage advisable?
That depends on your workload and personal preference. Dedicated athletes often schedule a massage once every one to two weeks, while recreational athletes are usually satisfied with a massage whenever needed.
Get more out of every recovery moment
Whichever massage you choose, the most important thing is to listen carefully to your body. A massage can help keep muscles supple, reduce tension, and support your recovery.
Combine a massage with the right care before, during, and after every workout. This way, you stay comfortable while moving and get more out of every sporting session.
