How do you choose one massage chair over another?

We’ve all been there: browsing the in-store massage chair sections, sitting in one after another after another after another. There’s no such thing as a bad massage, is there? So, how can you choose one massage chair over another?

The world of massage chairs is more complex than finding the chair with the perfectly paced, perfectly positioned preset massage settings. Rather, it requires a mastery of terms that the average shopper doesn’t usually have. This guide defines important terms that will aid in comparing one massage chair to another, apples-to-apples, rather than apples-to-oranges.

Acupressure

There are hundreds of acupressure points on the body. The points are connected to specific systems in the body, like the nervous system or lymphatic system. Acupressure is a massage technique that targets acupressure points on the body to improve health and wellness. Acupressure settings on massage chairs often feel like fingers pressure applied to various body parts.

Airbag Massage

Airbag massage techniques are created by the inflation and deflation of airbags that are inside of the massage chair. They compress and relax muscles, mimicking the effect of a Swedish or deep-tissue massage.

Automatic Programs

Most massage chairs come with a selection of pre-programmed settings that take the user through a massage program designed to deliver a specific result. These settings require just one touch of a button, and the massage chair does the rest. Settings are traditionally labled with different massage styles, like “restorative” or “relaxing” or “vibrate” or “deep tissue.”

Body Scan Technology

Many high-end massage chairs are equipped with body scan technology. Before the massage begins, the massage chair scans the user’s body for information like the heart rate, posture, composition and tension. Then, the chair tailors its massage to meet the user’s unique needs.

Compression Massage

Compression massage refers to firm squeezing and release of different body parts. Usually, airbag technology is employed to deliver a compression massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage delivers attention to deep muscles and connective tissues. Typically, deep tissue massage targets small, specific areas, like the calves or buttocks.

Massage Chair Motors

Massage chairs are powered by massage motors, which power different massage functions. Vibration motors, for example, control the vibrating movements, and piston motors control the reclining functions.

Roller

The roller is a massage tool that is employed by most massage chairs. The roller is usually circular, and it runs vertically up and down the spine and lower back for a deep tissue back massage.

Tapping Technique

The tapping technique is usually directed towards the back, and it mimics the feeling of tapping fists on the shoulders, upper and middle back areas.

Vibration

Vibration settings subtly shake the entire body to loosen and penetrate muscles.

Zero Gravity

The zero gravity position elevates the feet so that they are higher than the heart. Developed by NASA, the position is proven to promote relaxation and wellness.

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