How to Choose the Right Massage
With so many massage types available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with chronic back pain, training for a marathon, or simply need to unwind after a stressful week, there's a perfect massage style for you.
This comprehensive guide covers the 10 most popular massage types available in the Netherlands, helping you understand what each one does, who it's best for, and what to expect during your session.
1. Swedish Massage β The Classic Choice
Swedish massage is the most popular massage type worldwide and the perfect starting point for massage beginners. Developed in the 19th century by Swedish physician Per Henrik Ling, this technique uses five core strokes:
- Effleurage: Long, gliding strokes toward the heart
- Petrissage: Kneading and squeezing muscles
- Tapotement: Rhythmic tapping and percussion
- Friction: Deep, circular movements on specific areas
- Vibration: Shaking and trembling movements
Best for:
- First-time massage clients
- General relaxation and stress relief
- Improving blood circulation
- Mild muscle tension
- Overall wellness maintenance
What to expect:
Pressure is light to medium. A typical session lasts 60-90 minutes. You'll feel deeply relaxed and may even fall asleep β that's perfectly normal!
Price in the Netherlands: β¬50-80 per 60 minutes
2. Deep Tissue Massage β For Chronic Pain and Tension
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue (fascia). The therapist uses slow, firm strokes and concentrated finger pressure to break up muscle knots and adhesions.
Best for:
- Chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Muscle knots and trigger points
- Recovery from injuries
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
- People who sit at a desk all day
What to expect:
Pressure is firm to intense. Some discomfort is normal, but it should never be unbearable. You may feel sore for 1-2 days afterward β similar to post-workout soreness. Drink plenty of water after your session.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬60-90 per 60 minutes
3. Sports Massage β For Athletes and Active People
Sports massage is specifically designed for physically active individuals. It combines techniques from Swedish and deep tissue massage to address the unique demands that exercise places on the body.
Best for:
- Athletes and weekend warriors
- Pre-event preparation and post-event recovery
- Injury prevention
- Improving flexibility and range of motion
- Runners, cyclists, swimmers, and gym enthusiasts
What to expect:
The therapist will focus on areas most affected by your sport. A sports massage can be vigorous and may involve stretching. Sessions are often targeted rather than full-body.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬60-95 per 60 minutes
4. Thai Massage β Yoga Without the Work
Thai massage is sometimes called "lazy person's yoga" because the therapist moves your body into yoga-like stretches while applying pressure along energy lines (called "sen" in Thai medicine). Unlike Western massage, you stay fully clothed and no oil is used.
Best for:
- Improving flexibility and range of motion
- Energy boost and revitalization
- People who find it hard to "switch off" during regular massage
- Joint stiffness and mobility issues
- Those who prefer staying clothed during massage
What to expect:
You'll lie on a mat on the floor (or a firm massage table). The therapist uses their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to guide you through stretches. It's active and invigorating rather than deeply relaxing.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬65-95 per 60 minutes
5. Hot Stone Massage β Deep Warmth and Relaxation
Hot stone massage combines classic massage techniques with heated basalt stones placed on specific points of the body. The heat penetrates deep into muscles, allowing the therapist to work more effectively with less pressure.
Best for:
- Deep muscle relaxation without intense pressure
- Improving blood circulation
- Reducing anxiety and stress
- Chronic muscle pain
- Cold-weather comfort
What to expect:
Smooth, heated stones (around 50-60Β°C) are placed on your back, hands, feet, and sometimes face. The therapist also uses the stones as massage tools. The warmth feels deeply soothing.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬75-110 per 60 minutes
6. Aromatherapy Massage β Healing Through Scent
Aromatherapy massage combines gentle Swedish massage techniques with essential oils extracted from plants, flowers, and herbs. Each oil has specific therapeutic properties:
- Lavender: Calming, reduces anxiety, promotes sleep
- Eucalyptus: Energizing, clears sinuses, relieves muscle pain
- Peppermint: Refreshing, eases headaches, improves focus
- Chamomile: Soothing, reduces inflammation, calms nerves
- Rosemary: Stimulating, improves circulation, reduces fatigue
Best for:
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Mood enhancement
- Headaches and migraines
- Emotional healing
- Skin nourishment
What to expect:
Light to medium pressure with fragrant oils. The combination of touch and scent creates a deeply therapeutic experience. Always inform your therapist of any allergies.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬60-90 per 60 minutes
7. Prenatal Massage β Safe Relief for Expecting Mothers
Prenatal massage (zwangerschapsmassage) is specifically adapted for the needs of pregnant women. The therapist uses modified positions and gentle techniques to safely address pregnancy-related discomfort.
Best for:
- Back and hip pain during pregnancy
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Stress and anxiety during pregnancy
- Insomnia
- Preparation for labor
What to expect:
You'll lie on your side supported by pillows, or use a special pregnancy massage table. Pressure is gentle. Certain areas (like the abdomen and specific pressure points) are avoided. Most therapists recommend waiting until the second trimester.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬65-90 per 60 minutes
8. Reflexology β Healing Through Your Feet
Reflexology is based on the theory that specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these reflex points, the therapist can promote healing throughout the body.
Best for:
- Headaches and migraines
- Digestive issues
- Sinus problems
- Hormonal imbalances
- People who don't enjoy full-body massage
What to expect:
The therapist works primarily on your feet using thumb and finger pressure. It can be surprisingly intense. Most sessions last 30-60 minutes. Many people report feeling deeply relaxed afterward.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬45-70 per 45 minutes
9. Trigger Point Therapy β Precision Pain Relief
Trigger point therapy focuses on specific "knots" in muscles that cause pain in other parts of the body (referred pain). For example, a trigger point in your shoulder might cause headaches, or a knot in your lower back might create pain down your leg.
Best for:
- Specific, localized pain
- Chronic headaches caused by muscle tension
- Sciatica-like symptoms
- TMJ (jaw) pain
- Fibromyalgia
What to expect:
The therapist applies sustained pressure to trigger points for 10-30 seconds until the muscle releases. This can be uncomfortable but should provide immediate relief. Multiple sessions are usually needed for chronic conditions.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬60-90 per 60 minutes
10. Shiatsu β Japanese Pressure Point Massage
Shiatsu (meaning "finger pressure" in Japanese) is a traditional Japanese therapy based on the same principles as acupuncture. The therapist uses fingers, thumbs, palms, and sometimes elbows to apply pressure to specific points along the body's energy meridians.
Best for:
- Stress and fatigue
- Headaches and migraines
- Back pain
- Digestive problems
- Overall energy balance
What to expect:
Like Thai massage, you remain clothed and lie on a mat or firm surface. The therapist applies rhythmic pressure to energy points. Sessions can feel meditative and deeply grounding.
Price in the Netherlands: β¬65-90 per 60 minutes
Massage Type Comparison Table
| Massage Type | Pressure | Best For | Duration | Price (NL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish | Light-Medium | Relaxation, beginners | 60-90 min | β¬50-80 |
| Deep Tissue | Firm-Intense | Chronic pain, knots | 60-90 min | β¬60-90 |
| Sports | Medium-Firm | Athletes, recovery | 60-90 min | β¬60-95 |
| Thai | Medium | Flexibility, energy | 60-90 min | β¬65-95 |
| Hot Stone | Light-Medium | Deep warmth, stress | 60-90 min | β¬75-110 |
| Aromatherapy | Light-Medium | Anxiety, mood | 60-90 min | β¬60-90 |
| Prenatal | Light | Pregnancy comfort | 60 min | β¬65-90 |
| Reflexology | Medium | Headaches, digestion | 30-60 min | β¬45-70 |
| Trigger Point | Firm | Specific pain | 60 min | β¬60-90 |
| Shiatsu | Medium | Energy, balance | 60-90 min | β¬65-90 |
How to Choose: A Quick Decision Guide
Choose Swedish massage if: You're new to massage or want pure relaxation.
Choose deep tissue if: You have chronic pain or muscle knots that won't go away.
Choose sports massage if: You exercise regularly and want to improve performance or recovery.
Choose Thai massage if: You want improved flexibility and an energizing experience.
Choose hot stone if: You want deep relaxation with gentle pressure and warmth.
Choose aromatherapy if: You want to address both physical and emotional concerns.
Choose prenatal if: You're pregnant and experiencing discomfort.
Choose reflexology if: You want targeted healing through foot massage.
Tips for Your First Massage
- Communicate openly: Tell your therapist about pain areas, pressure preferences, and any medical conditions
- Arrive hydrated: Drink water before and after your session
- Don't eat heavily: Avoid large meals 1-2 hours before your massage
- Breathe deeply: Deep breathing enhances the benefits of massage
- It's okay to speak up: If the pressure is too much or too little, say so
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a massage?
For general wellness, once every 2-4 weeks is ideal. For specific conditions, your therapist may recommend weekly sessions initially.
Can I combine different massage types?
Yes! Many therapists blend techniques. For example, a session might combine Swedish relaxation with deep tissue work on problem areas.
Which massage is best for back pain?
Deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, or sports massage are typically most effective for back pain.
Is massage safe for everyone?
Most massage types are safe for healthy adults. However, if you have medical conditions, always consult your doctor first.
Not sure which massage to choose? Our therapists can help you decide. Book your outcall massage in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or anywhere in the Netherlands.
