Deep tissue or sports massage? A guide to choosing

What they share: firmer pressure

Deep Tissue Massage and Sports Massage are both given with firmer pressure than a relaxing massage, which is why they are often confused. The difference lies less in how much pressure is used and more in the pace of the session and the areas it focuses on.

Deep tissue massage

In a deep tissue massage the movements are slow and controlled, and the therapist spends longer on specific areas. It is a frequent choice for people who spend long hours at a desk and want focused work on areas such as the back and shoulders. Feel free to say during the session whether the pressure suits you.

Sports massage

A sports massage has a more dynamic flow and focuses on the muscle groups that carry the load of an active life. Guests who train regularly, walk long distances in the city or have just finished a demanding week of exercise choose this session. Saying at the start which areas you would like emphasised makes it more personal.

Which one suits you?

Look at deep tissue if you want slow, focused, deep work, and at sports massage if you want an active session on particular areas. If it is your first firm massage, you can agree with your therapist to start with medium pressure and increase it during the session. These massages are not a substitute for treatment; if there is anything about your health we should know, please speak to our team first.

Planning at Essens

Both massages are offered as 50-minute sessions at Essens, and current prices are on the treatment pages. You can add a hammam ritual before the massage if you wish. Create your request in the form and send the WhatsApp message; our team will then confirm availability.

Essens Wellness & Spa · 2026-10-01