Which massage should I choose?

Understanding the Differences Between Clinical, Deep Tissue, Sports, and a Relaxing Massage.

When we think about booking a massage, we often focus on the labels - like 'deep tissue' or 'sports massage' without necessarily knowing what each one actually means. The truth is, the best massage for you depends entirely on what your goals are for the session on that day. Many of the soft tissue skills I use in different massages are the same, but they are applied in a unique & purposeful ways.

Below is an easy breakdown of four popular massage types and what differentiates them.

---

Advanced Clinical Massage

Advanced clinical massage is highly targeted and results-focused but with a holistic approach. It’s ideal if you’re dealing with specific pain, restricted movement, or an injury that needs careful, intentional work. For maximum effectiveness, we advise a series to 6 sessions.

What to expect:

You will experience

• A thorough assessment of your range of movement (orthopaedic testing) to understand the root of your discomfort and your lifestyle

• Focused work on problem areas rather than a full-body routine

• Techniques such as Myo-Fascial Release, Soft Tissue Release, Trigger Point Therapy, and stretching

• Communication with your therapist throughout the session

• Self care advice - such as breathwork, stretching etc.

Best for: chronic pain conditions, muscular tension patterns, injury recovery, limited mobility, longterm stress.

---

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage does exactly what the name suggests: it works deeply into the muscle layers. It’s not necessarily as precise as clinical work, but it’s great for people who simply enjoy firm pressure and want overall release.

What to expect:

• Slow, firm strokes aimed at releasing long-held tension

• Less assessment and more general deep work

• Pressure that gradually sinks into the tissues

Best for: people who like firm pressure, general tightness, stress held in the muscles.

---

Sports Massage

Sports massage uses many of the same skills found in both deep tissue and clinical massage, but the approach is tailored specifically for athletes and active individuals.

What to expect:

• Techniques that support performance and recovery

• Adaptations for pre and post events/maintenance

• Targeted work on muscles heavily used in your sport or activity

• Focus on reducing fatigue, improving mobility, and preventing injury

Best for: athletes, gym-goers, runners, or anyone who trains regularly.

---

Relaxing Massage

Relaxing massages focus on calming the nervous system as much as working on the muscles. While it may include techniques from other styles, the emphasis is more gentle and creating a nurturing experience.

What to expect:

• Long, flowing strokes

• Smooth, rhythmic pacing

• A soothing, restorative treatment environment

• Aromatic essential oils

Best for: stress reduction, emotional recharge, rest and anyone looking to unwind.

---

So Which Massage Should You Choose?

It all comes down to your intention for the session:

• Do you have a specific pain or injury? → **Advanced Clinical Massage**

• Do you simply want firm pressure and overall release? → **Deep Tissue Massage**

• Are you active or training regularly? → **Sports Massage**

• Do you want to relax and reset? → **Relaxing Massage**

If in doubt, call Naomi for a chat. I’m very good at tailoring a massage to your unique needs. So whichever type of massage you choose, you’ll always receive a treatment that includes all the aspects you require. I am also a Women's Health Massage therapist specialising in Fertility, Pregnancy and Postpartum - you can take a look at my full list of therapies here http://www.inner-element.co.uk.