Every massage therapist gets the same question: 'which one do I actually need?' The honest answer depends on why you're on the table. Swedish is for relaxation and circulation. Deep tissue targets chronic muscle tension. Sports massage is corrective work for specific movement patterns. Here's how to choose.
Highlight what matters
Compare
Low commitment
Swedish Massage
Full-body relaxation, long flowing strokes
£60 £110
60m, 90m
Stress relief
First-time clients
Improving circulation
Rebook
Monthly for maintenance
Lasts
Immediate, lasts 3 to 7 days
Medium commitment
Deep Tissue
Slow, sustained pressure into muscle layers
£70 £120
60m, 90m
Chronic tension
Desk-worker shoulders
Recovery from strain
Rebook
Every 2 to 4 weeks if in pain
Lasts
24h soreness, then 1 to 3 weeks relief
Medium commitment
Sports Massage
Assessment + targeted work on specific muscles
£65 £110
45m, 60m (focused)
Runners & cyclists
Pre/post event
Injury rehab (with clearance)
Rebook
Every 2 weeks in training
Lasts
Corrective, measured in weeks
Side-by-side
Attribute
Swedish Massage
Deep Tissue
Sports Massage
Pressure
Light Medium
Firm Deep
Variable, targeted
Whole body vs. focused
Whole body
Whole body or focused
Focused (30 to 45m)
Session length
60m, 90m
60m, 90m
45m, 60m
Price (UK avg)
£60 £110
£70 £120
£65 £110
Post-session soreness
None
24h aching
24 to 48h if event prep
Requires health intake
Standard
Standard
Yes, always
Good if you're pregnant
After 12 weeks, prenatal-trained
No, book prenatal instead
No
Pick Swedish if…
You want to unwind, sleep better, or you've never had a professional massage. Swedish is the industry default for a reason, it's safe, universally beneficial, and immediately calming.
Pick deep tissue if…
You can point to where it hurts, shoulders, lower back, neck, and it's been there for weeks. Expect some 24-hour soreness afterwards, and drink extra water.
Pick sports massage if…
You're training for something, recovering from an injury, or you've been told you have a movement imbalance. Sports therapists assess first, treat second, you'll leave with mobility work, not just relief.
Common questions
Which is best for lower back pain?
Start with a sports massage assessment. If the therapist finds no red flags, they'll usually deliver deep-tissue work to the affected area, but the assessment matters more than the technique.
How often should I book?
Once a month for wellness, every 2 weeks if you're carrying an injury or training hard, weekly during acute pain flare-ups (under a therapist's guidance).
Can I combine techniques?
Yes, most Cover Beauty massage therapists work integratively. Book a 90-minute session and tell them your priorities; they'll adjust technique in real time.
Ready to book?
Browse verified massage salons across the UK and book with a specialist who offers the option you picked.
