Should I hot tub before or after massage?

Author: Macey Crooks MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 20, 2025

It reduces inflammation of joints, reduces blood pressure and increases oxygen flow to painful areas. So, the answer to the question,"Hot Tub Before Massage?" is a resounding "Yes!" - you should slip into the hot water before your massage, whether your massage is local, or if you are at a spa resort.

Is it better to heat up before or after a massage?

Heat therapy can strategically enhance recovery and performance. Applying heat before a massage warms up muscles, making them more pliable and reducing injury risk during deep tissue work. Post-massage, heat helps reduce soreness and promotes faster recovery by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the muscles.

Should you massage first or spa first?

Whether you choose your massage treatment to take place before or after using the spa facilities, the relaxation benefits obtained are the same. However, if this is your first Nordic spa experience, we suggest that you start with a massage, as this will give you more flexibility for the rest of your day at the spa.

Is it okay to take a hot bath after a massage?

The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.

Is it better to get a massage before or after hot springs?

Since many massages involve oils, it is best to get your massage treatment later so that none of the massage oils will get in the onsen. Additionally, spending time in the onsen is the perfect way to loosen up your muscles before your massage, so it is as effective as possible in promoting relaxation.

After Massage Tips

Can I hot tub after a massage?

Getting back in your backyard hot tub after a massage isn't as important as before your massage, however, there are still benefits. You may find that after you may experience a more rapid recovery as the hydrotherapy can help to keep your muscles relaxed and prevent any soreness from a particularly intense massage.

Should you go in the hot tub or massage first?

Getting a good massage is one of life's pleasures. It can be a necessity for some who experience chronic pain & aches. If you go straight to your massage without soaking in a hot tub first, you not getting the full benefit. By soaking in the hot tub before your massage for 15-20 minutes, you'll enjoy a better massage.

What are the don'ts after massage?

Here are seven things you should not do after a Thai massage.
  • Don't Eat Heavy Meals. After a Thai massage, your body is relaxed, and eating heavy meals can affect your digestive system. ...
  • Steer Clear of Alcohol. ...
  • Avoid Strenuous Activities. ...
  • Skip the Caffeine. ...
  • Avoid Hot Showers or Baths. ...
  • No Smoking. ...
  • Avoid Stressful Situations.

Is it better to take a bath before or after a massage?

Take a warm shower

First, the warm water will begin allowing your mind and body to relax making it more open to receiving massage. By cleaning your body prior to a massage, you can also mitigate some personal hygiene insecurities, if you have any, plus it is greatly appreciated by your massage therapist.

Why masseuse burp when massaging?

It's possible that a masseuse burps because he or she receives the effect of the massage itself. “I mean, masseuses use their energy when applying pressures. So maybe, since they're using their own hands, and the therapy oils, there's a stimulation on their palms.

What should you not do before a massage?

Here are some things you should avoid doing before a full body massage:
  • Eating a heavy meal. ...
  • Drinking alcohol or caffeine, as they can both cause dehydration and reduce the benefits of the massage.
  • Wearing restrictive clothing that makes it difficult for your masseuse to access the muscles they need to work on.

Should you go in the pool before or after massage?

If you can fit in a gentle swim and a sauna or steam beforehand, your muscles will be relaxed and ready to "go with the flow". You may well find you benefit more from a massage if you relax first, too. Afterwards, wrap yourself up warm and rest for a while.

What is the 1st rule of massage therapy?

The first rule of massage therapy is to ensure the comfort and safety of the client. This includes creating a comfortable and relaxing environment, using proper techniques and pressure, and communicating effectively with the client to ensure that they are comfortable with the massage.

Is it better to take a steam bath before or after a massage?

Sauna Before Massage

Firstly, the heat from the sauna can help to relax your muscles, making them more receptive to the massage. This can make the massage more effective and potentially more enjoyable. Secondly, the sauna can help to detoxify your body, which can enhance the detoxifying effects of the massage.

Is it rude to not shower before a massage?

Be sure to come in fresh and clean before your appointment. You don't want any sweat, chlorine or grime rubbed into your skin. Plus, it's just the polite thing to do for your massage therapist. If you have time, a nice, warm shower can help relax your mind and your muscles before your treatment.

Why do you need a hot shower after a massage?

Immersing yourself in a warm bath or taking a hot shower can provide soothing relief to sore muscles after a massage. The warmth helps relax your muscles and alleviate discomfort. You can also add Epsom salts to your bath, as they contain magnesium, known for its muscle-relaxing benefits.

How much should I tip a massage therapist?

Standard Tip Percentage Guidelines for a Massage

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.

Is sauna after massage good?

Overall, sauna use has proven to bring many benefits to the body and mind. Paired with massage therapy, it can increase the benefits gained and boost muscle recovery after deep tissue sessions. So book a sauna session after your next massage therapy appointment.

Why do you have to go to the bathroom after a massage?

Kneading and working muscle gets fluid pumping out of the soft tissue and into your circulatory system, where it heads toward your kidneys. That's why many people have to pee right after a massage. (Naumann Carlstrom says some of her clients can't get up from the table fast enough.)

Is a hot bath good after a massage?

Take a nice hot shower or bath.

Heat increases blood flow in your body and assists with relaxation of muscles. Feel free to add some essential oils (lavender is always an excellent option), Epsom salts, candles and calming music to take your bath to the next level in relaxation.

Is it rude not to tip after a massage?

"Because a massage therapist or aesthetician is providing a service, you should tip them in addition to the cost of your service." Keep in mind that when you get a massage or facial at a spa, you're paying the spa for the service you receive from the aesthetician.

Can I swim after a massage?

To experience the maximum benefits of a sports massage, you should rest for 24-48 hours after a massage to allow time for muscle recovery. You shouldn't workout within this timeframe, but you can partake in light exercises, such as walking, swimming, and gentle yoga.

What is hot tub etiquette?

Be a good guest by simply wiping the exposed parts of the hot tub down with your towel after you dry off. The hot tub's owner will be very impressed with your thoughtfulness and effort to keep their hot tub looking clean! Don't bring glass into the tub. If you BYOB, it's best not to bring glass bottles.

Is it better to go to the spa before or after a massage?

Deciding whether to use a sauna before or after a massage can depend on what you want to achieve. If relaxation is your goal, starting in the sauna might be your best bet. But if you're seeking to maximize detoxification and deep tissue recovery, beginning with a massage could be more beneficial.

Should you shower or hot tub first?

From a personal hygiene standpoint, showering before you hit the pool or hot tub is great for your comfort and health. It washes away sweat and oils that could mix with the water and cause skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, this is especially important to avoid any bad reactions.

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