People often aren’t exactly sure what the difference is between sports massage and the various other types of massage. Although there is a lot of crossover with all types of massage, there are some basic differences. This post goes through what you can expect from the most common types massage and, in particular, what sports massage is.

Holistic/Swedish massage

This is the type of massage usually offered at beauty salons and spas. It is intended to be a relaxing treatment and follows a set pattern of strokes. Usually the therapist performs all the massage strokes with her hands and the pressure is moderate.

Deep tissue massage

Deep tissue massage is what it says – it works deeper into the muscle tissue to break down areas of persistent tension. It focuses on particular areas and requires firmer pressure than Swedish massage. The therapist will often use her forearm and elbow as well as her hands to apply pressure. Depending on the style of the therapist and what the client feels comfortable with, the pressure can range from feeling a little uncomfortable to quite painful.

Hot stones massage

Hot stones massage is carried out with basalt stones, heated in hot water. The therapist holds the stones in the palms of her hands as she carries out the massage. The heat of the stones increases blood supply and helps muscles to relax.

Lymphatic drainage

All types of massage will stimulate the lymphatic system to some extent. Although massage specifically for lymphatic drainage is widely available, its main benefit would be to those suffering from lymph fluid build up (lymphedema). This isn’t a common problem, most of us have normally functioning lymphatic systems and a regular massage will give them adequate stimulation. Lymphatic draining is a gentle form of massage that aims to encourage the lymph fluid away from areas where it has built up. 

So what is sports massage?

It’s just a form of deep tissue massage. Sports massage often focuses on a particular area of pain or injury and does not have an emphasis on relaxation. Treatment might involve passive stretching or muscle energy techniques. Therapists often have a background in sports or exercise, either as an instructor/coach or a participant.

Is sports massage a full body massage?

Not necessarily. People who are very active often feel that they benefit from a full body massage, but you can have a sports back and shoulder massage, or a sports legs massage. It just depends on which areas you feel need to be worked on.

Which type of massage should you have?

For relaxation and enjoyment – Hot stones massage

If you get back & shoulder tension, general aches and pains, tension headaches – deep tissue massage

If you have specific issues that you want treated (whether you participate in sports or not) – sports massage 

To help with problems of lymph fluid build up – lymphatic drainage

Book a sports massage

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