Chair Massage vs Table Massage: Which one is better?

Who doesn’t like a relaxing massage session that releases tension from the body and oozes out some stress?

Massages come in a vast variety, each with different purposes and different techniques. At a spa, you’ll probably get a table massage. In other settings, a chair massage can actually be the more convenient option.

So what’s the difference between the two? Should you choose a table massage or a chair massage? Does it even matter?

In this post, we’ll be discussing the differences between chair and table massages. We’ll also explore the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you make the optimum choice.

Chair vs. Table

When you hear the word massage, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? You probably picture yourself lying comfortably on a massage table, feeling extremely relaxed.

This popular traditional type of massage is the one we see in movies and advertisements. It’s a table massage. On the other hand, a chair massage is one where you’re seated in a massage chair instead of lying down.

This obvious difference isn’t the only thing that sets table and chair massages apart.

Each requires different preparations and focuses on different areas of the body. They also don’t take up the same amount of time, and definitely don’t cost the same.

Read on to find out more.

Table Massage

During a table massage, you can be either clothed or unclothed. This depends on your preference, the type of massage, and whether or not you’ll be using therapeutic oils.

Most types of massages can be given on a massage table. This includes famous variants like shiatsu, Swedish massage, and sports massage.

Table massages are most common at spas and wellness centers. However, some massage tables are portable and can be brought in for at-home or in-office sessions.

The price of a table massage is usually determined on a per session basis.

Typically, a session lasts for 30 to 90 minutes. The duration can vary depending on the masseuse, the type of massage, and how much of the body is being worked. A full body massage should take at least 1 hour, ideally a little longer.

Upsides

• The masseuse has better access to all muscle groups, so you can get an effective full-body massage.
• It leaves you feeling extremely relaxed.
• If you’re unclothed, the masseuse can apply therapeutic oils to your body.

Downsides

Table massages are more expensive than chair massages, generally speaking. This is due to many factors, including the typically longer duration of the massage.

Moreover, if you’re unclothed during the massage, there will be some laundry costs to wash the sheets and towels used. This adds to the final price.

The use of therapeutic oils also accounts for the price you pay.

Other downsides of table massages include:
• Some difficulty climbing up the massage table for the elderly and the injured.
• It requires at least 1 hour to get a proper full-body massage.

Chair Massage

A chair massage is also known as a seated massage. During the session, you sit in a massage chair, leaning forward. You also remain fully clothed. However, for an effective massage, avoid wearing bulky jackets and sweaters.

The techniques used in a chair massage are a bit limited compared to those of a table massage. Here, your massage therapist will focus on releasing tension from certain trigger points in the upper body.

Ideally, a chair massage would last for about 15-20 minutes. However, the duration can vary from just 5 minutes to half an hour.

The price of a chair massage is usually decided based on the duration of the massage. Typically, they’re priced on a per-minute basis. They’re also much cheaper than table massages.

When Is a Chair Massage Convenient?

Chair massages are common at fairs and events. They’re also the more likely option if you bring in a therapist to give you a massage at home. That’s because massage chairs are more compact and have greater portability.

The workplace is another setting where chair massages can be much better than table massages. In-office massages are sometimes part of company wellness programs. Therapists are brought in to give massage sessions to employees at the office.

Employees may not prefer disrobing at work for a massage. Massage tables would also take up more space than massage chairs. Unclothed table massages also require more privacy.

Meanwhile, you can place multiple massage chairs in the same room. Sessions will also be much quicker. This means you can get all the massages done in a much shorter time.

Upsides

• Focuses on releasing tension from the upper back, neck, arms, and shoulders.
• It leaves you feeling energized.
• A great option for people who prefer being fully clothed during a massage.
• Shorter duration is ideal if you’re trying to fit your massage session in a tight schedule.
• A lot cheaper because no preparation is needed and no products are used.
• More convenient for in-office massages.
• Better accessibility for older people, injured people, or people suffering from severe pain

Downsides

• Not effective for areas other than the upper body.
• The inability to get a full-body massage makes it less relaxing than a table massage.
• No therapeutic oils can be applied.

The Bottom Line

We can’t classify table massages as better than chair massages or vice versa. Mainly, it all depends on what your body needs.

If you want a full-body massage or want to relieve lower back pain, for example, a table massage is just what you need. Meanwhile, if you’d like to focus more on releasing tension from your upper back, a chair massage will be ideal for you.

When choosing, you should also take other factors into consideration. Are you heading to a spa, or bringing massage therapists to your workplace? How much are you willing to splurge on your massage? Are you too busy for a 1-hour session?

Based on how you answer these questions, you’ll be able to pick the best option for you.