How long is too long of a massage?

Author: Prof. Ambrose Strosin Sr.  |  Last update: Sunday, July 6, 2025

So if you really want specific work AND full body relaxation, it may be worth considering a 90-min session. General relaxation can be achieved in a 60-min session, but if you just want general relaxation in half of the body (front/back or upper/lower) then a 45-min appointment can also work.

Can a massage be too long?

Yes, a massage can last too long. While the ideal duration varies based on individual preferences and needs, excessively long massages can lead to discomfort or fatigue. Here are a few considerations:

Is a 4 hour massage too long?

A 4-Hour Massage is a different thing. With this amount of time, focus, and attention, your body will have a lot to process. Even though it may work well for a few, a 4-Hour Massage is too long for most people. If you think it might be right for you, start with a 120-Minute Massage.

Is a 2hr massage too long?

Conclusion: While a 2-hour massage can offer more comprehensive benefits, the best choice depends on individual circumstances, preferences, and specific needs. Some may find a 1-hour session sufficient, while others may benefit more from a longer treatment.

Is an hour massage too much?

Of course, that depends on several variables, though 60- and 90-minute massages are two of the most common options. However, there are situations where shorter massages (those lasting 30 minutes or less) may be the most beneficial—for both the client and the massage therapist.

How Long Will I Be Sore After a Massage?

Is it possible to overdo massage?

Overdoing deep tissue massages can lead to muscle damage, increased soreness, inflammation, and bruising. Moderation and professional guidance are crucial to avoid these risks.

Is 50 minutes long enough for a massage?

In general, a 50 or 60-minute massage is suitable if your main goal is to relax. You are more than welcome to do a lengthier session of 80 or 90 minutes, but anything longer than that can start to seem monotonous or leave you feeling drowsy.

Is a 75 minute massage too long?

For example, if you are getting a massage for the first time at our clinic, a 60-min or a 75-min appointment would be appropriate. This will allow enough time for your RMT to complete an initial assessment and get to know your body in order to give you an effective treatment.

Can you get a 2 hour massage?

A 2 hour massage is the ultimate relaxing escape from stress with time for a full body massage and specific work on areas that require more attention.

How long should a full body massage take?

In general, one hour is an appropriate length for a relaxing full body massage. It allows for a few minutes spent on each area of the body, but in 60 minutes it is unlikely we can address an area where you have specific pain and still perform a thorough full body massage.

How long do most massage therapists last?

Various sources report the average lifespan of a massage therapy career is 5-7 years, but it's possible to have a successful career that lasts a few decades. What's the difference between 5 years and 30 years? Continuing education, self-care, and autonomy.

What is the ideal time for a full body massage?

For many others, the best time to get a massage is in the evening. It may be the calmest, least busy part of your day while also aligning with goals for unwinding before bed. Getting a massage in the evening is great for stress relief as well as for helping your body recover from the normal wear and tear of the day.

Is it safe to get a 3 hour massage?

Absolutely! Many massage therapists and spas offer customizable sessions. If you're looking for something outside the typical 30, 60, 90, or 120-minute options, just talk to your therapist. They can tailor a session to fit your specific needs and schedule.

Can massaging too much be bad?

Massage therapy is a great way to recuperate from injuries faster and can be vital for helping athletes reach peak physical fitness when playing sports. However, too much manipulation of sensitive areas and injured muscles is actually detrimental to the body's natural recovery process.

When should you stop massage?

Contagious skin conditions (boils, warts, or herpes) Other skin conditions (burns, rashes, or sores) Circulatory system issues (high blood pressure, varicose veins, or stroke) Digestive system issues (ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, or colitis)

Is it OK to get 2 massages in one day?

It takes a good 48 hours for the system to rebalance after a deep massage, so at least a two day gap between massages is ideal. The frequency of sports massage is dependent on ones training schedule, however regular massage can help to maintain range of movement, flexibility and health of muscles.

How much does a 3 hour massage cost?

The cost of massage therapy can vary depending on several factors, such as location, type of massage, and experience level of the therapist. On average, a massage typically ranges from $50 to $150 per hour.

What should I tip for a 2 hour massage?

The generally accepted tip for a massage therapist is 20% of the total massage cost. This aligns with the standard tipping guidelines for other service workers in the hospitality industry, and lets face it. The therapist is doing a lot of work.

Is a 2 hour massage too long?

A two-hour session may seem to be a little extreme to some, but seasoned massage connoisseurs love it! It's not recommended for newbies to massage. Your therapist can provide specific Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage, Deep Tissue work, Cupping, and even some stretching and Range Of Motion within this massage length.

What is the longest massage?

In New Zealand, Alastair Galpin performed the longest full body massage for 25 hours and 4 minutes in 2015.

How much do you tip a massage therapist?

A good rule of thumb for tipping in the massage industry is between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, which is the standard practice in the broader service industry. This range is widely accepted as a standard gesture of appreciation for satisfactory to excellent service, and is a perfectly acceptable tip.

Is a 60 minute massage actually 60 minutes?

Every massage establishment will likely have different protocols and standards regarding the use of their time. At WM, we believe a 60 minute massage should be just that: 60 minutes. We ensure you are getting the full amount of time by booking an extra 15 minutes with every appointment.

Is once a week too often for a massage?

In general, the ideal frequency of massage therapy can range from multiple times per week to once per month depending on your specific needs and goals.

Which massage is best for full body?

1. Swedish Massage. A quintessential relaxation technique, Swedish massage involves gentle to firm pressure, long strokes, kneading, and circular movements to relieve muscle tension. It promotes blood circulation, aids in lymphatic drainage, and induces a profound sense of relaxation.

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