The national average cost for a sports massage is $105-165 per 90-minute session. The exact cost of this specific type of physical therapy will mostly depend on the length of your session. Location (in-home versus a spa, for example) and number of therapists can also impact the price.
If you play a sport, you likely have tight, aching muscles begging for a massage. Although stretching and rolling out problem areas will help, hiring a professional massage therapist skilled in sports massage therapy can take your sports recovery to the next level.
Before you a sports massage, learn how much one costs and what factors into massage prices.
What impacts the price of a sports massage?
The length of your session will have the biggest impact on massage prices. However, location (in-home versus at the masseuse's location) and the number of massage therapists you need can also raise or lower the price.
Location of the massage
Depending on your massage therapist, you will either go to their location (for example, a spa) or have them come to you at your house or office. An in-home or office session typically costs more.
For example, one Thumbtack pro offers a one-hour sport massage for $65 and hosts clients at her location in Long Island, NY.
Number of massage therapists
You'll pay more for two therapists, so think about what experience you want and how much you can afford. Both massage therapists can target problem areas simultaneously using varying massage techniques. Sometimes one will concentrate on tight muscles in the neck and upper back while the other gives you a foot massage.
Session length
Sports massages are usually a 60- or 90-minute session. Just like any other massage, the longer your session, the higher the price.
If you booked a 90-minute sports massage in your home with two therapists through
Packages
If you're committed to an ongoing relationship with your massage therapist, signing up for a package can save you money. This is especially helpful if you're training for a marathon or competition. A regular sport therapy massage can help you recover during training, and prep your body to perform pre-event.
Therapist
Steven Pagel in Philadelphia, PA has special offers if you book a massage package in advance. For example, you'd save 10% on five sessions, 20% on 10 sessions and 30% off on 20 sessions.
How much should I tip?
Some massage therapists include gratuity in their rates. If not, it's common practice to tip about 20% as a standard hospitality rate, depending on how satisfied you are with the massage. Many therapists appreciate getting that tip in cash as well so remember to stop by the ATM before your appointment.
What to expect from a sports massage
A sports massage, or sports therapy massage, combines Swedish, Shiatsu and other massage techniques to treat or prevent sports injuries, relax muscles, and stimulate blood circulation. Unlike a tissue massage, this technique focuses on working your muscles. A sports massage is also better than a deep tissue massage for working on injuries or pain that have built up over time.
Licensed sports massage therapists often have better understanding of the body's anatomy than those who are just specialized in deep tissue massage. Your session will usually begin by discussing any pain or injuries you might have.
Once the session gets started, your sports massage therapist will use use several forms of touch as part of myofascial release therapy to restore elasticity and movement to stiff muscles and flush toxins from your body. They might also use targeted pressure to reduce overall pain and prevent future injuries. Rather than work deep tissues, the therapist will focus on manipulating soft tissue aka your muscles.
Depending on your sport and body's needs, this could be a full-body massage or a chair massage that focuses predominantly on your upper body.
If you're used to a relaxing hot stone, Swedish, or aromatherapy massage with essential oils, you may be surprised that the massage techniques for a sports massage can be more uncomfortable than soothing. Prepare to feel a little sore the next day (but you're already used to that, aren't you?)
Benefits of a sports massage
For professional and amateur athletes, massages during training can keep the body limber, improve flexibility, and reduce overall aches and pains.
A pre-event sports massage can stimulate your muscles and enhance their performance before a big competition.
A post-event treatment can help you recover and treat any musculoskeletal injuries with specific techniques.
How to save money on a sports massage
In order to save money on a sport massage, try these tactics:
How to hire a sports massage therapist
Before you book a session, be sure to check that your therapist is licensed to practice massage therapy and has accredited certifications.
Through the
As you search for therapists that can address your specific athletic injuries and pains, you'll probably find that most therapists can conduct sports massages as well as other massage services (like Swedish massage and reflexology), but it's always best to check.
You'll also want to talk to the sport massage therapist about the techniques they use on the muscles and tissues. They might use kneading, wringing, and scooping strokes with deep pressure to reduce muscle tension.
As an athlete, massage therapy isn't just great for your muscles, it can also reduce mental stress and relax you for hours afterwards. You're already taking care of your body by working out and pushing it to its limits, so why not add a little relaxation and recovery to your wellness routine?