You know you want a massage. But which one? If you have ever stared at a list of options and thought “I just want the right one for me,” you are not alone. Most of my clients feel exactly the same way before their first booking.
After 15+ years of working with bodies of all kinds (and 10+ of those years here in Barcelona), I have seen this question come up thousands of times. The good news is that choosing between deep tissue, Thai and sports massage is simpler than it seems once you understand what each one actually does.
Here is my honest breakdown to help you decide.
Deep tissue massage: strong, focused pressure where you need it most
Deep tissue massage uses slow, firm pressure to reach the deeper layers of your muscles. I work with my hands, forearms and elbows to find the spots that are holding tension and release them gradually.
This is the massage most people picture when they think about “a proper, strong massage.” The pressure builds as your body allows me deeper, and I check in with you throughout to make sure we are in the right zone.
Many clients describe a “hurts so good” feeling during the session and a noticeable sense of release afterward.
Deep tissue works well if you
- Spend long hours at a desk and carry tension in your neck, shoulders or back
- Have stubborn knots that lighter massage does not reach
- Prefer strong, focused pressure over gentle stroking
- Want targeted work on specific problem areas rather than a full-body flow
I trained in French precision techniques that focus on controlled, sustained pressure. It is about accuracy, not just force. Learn more about my deep tissue massage here.
Thai massage: vigorous stretching and pressure for your whole body
Thai massage is a completely different experience. Rather than lying still on a table, your body gets moved, stretched and pressed through a sequence of positions. I use my hands, elbows, knees and body weight to open up your joints and work along your muscle lines.
This is intensive, energising bodywork. Many people call it “yoga for the lazy” because you get the benefits of deep stretching without doing the work yourself. But make no mistake, this is vigorous and active, not a gentle wind-down.
I studied traditional Thai massage at TMC in Chiang Mai, where these techniques have been refined over centuries. What I bring to my Barcelona studio is that authentic training combined with a European understanding of body mechanics.
Thai massage works well if you
- Feel stiff and restricted in your movement
- Want improved flexibility and a wider range of motion
- Enjoy intensive bodywork and like feeling challenged
- Prefer to stay clothed (loose, comfortable clothing works best)
Important: Thai massage is invigorating, not relaxing. If you are looking for calm and quiet, a relaxation session might suit you better.
Sports massage: keeping your body performing at its best
Sports massage adapts to where you are in your training cycle. It is not just for professional athletes. If you run, cycle, swim, go to the gym or play weekend football, this is the massage that supports what your body is already doing.
Before a race or big session, I use lighter, faster strokes to prepare your muscles for effort. During a training block, I focus on flushing out what hard sessions leave behind. After competition, the work is about helping your body recover efficiently so you can get back to doing what you love.
After 10+ years of working with Barcelona runners, cyclists, CrossFitters and gym regulars, I know what active bodies need. Sometimes that is firm flushing strokes to move waste products. Sometimes it is specific work on your running gait muscles. It always depends on your current training and goals.
Sports massage works well if you
- Train regularly and want to maintain your performance
- Are preparing for an event like the Barcelona Marathon or a Montserrat climb
- Notice tightness building up during your training plan
- Want a massage that works with your schedule, not against it
Explore how sports massage fits into your routine on my sports massage page.
Quick comparison: which massage matches your needs?
| Deep tissue | Thai massage | Sports massage | |
| Pressure style | Slow, firm and sustained | Body weight, stretching and compression | Adapts to training phase |
| Best for | Stubborn tension, knots and tight muscles | Flexibility, stiffness and energy | Active people, recovery and performance |
| How it feels | Intense, focused release | Vigorous, energising stretch | Tailored to your training |
| Clothing | Undressed (draped) | Comfortable loose clothing | Undressed (draped) |
| Ideal client | Desk workers, chronic tension | Anyone wanting more mobility | Runners, cyclists, gym-goers |
Still not sure? Here is how to decide
If you are unsure, ask yourself one question: what does my body need right now?
- If you have a specific area that has been bothering you for weeks, deep tissue is your best starting point.
- If your whole body feels stiff and locked up, Thai massage will open everything from head to toe.
- If you are training for something and want to keep your body on track, sports massage supports that goal.
And here is something many clients discover: you do not have to stick with just one. I offer personalised sessions where I blend techniques based on what your body tells me during the session. Many of my regular clients book a personalised massage that combines deep tissue work on their problem areas with sports massage techniques for recovery.
The best way to find out is to try one and see how your body responds. I am always happy to guide you when you book.
Frequently asked questions
Which massage is best for back pain?
For most people with back tension from desk work or daily stress, deep tissue massage is the strongest option. I focus sustained pressure on the specific muscles causing discomfort, working through the layers to reach the source.
Is Thai massage painful?
Thai massage is vigorous and intensive, so you will feel the stretches and pressure working. It should feel challenging but not painful. I always adjust to your comfort level and check in throughout the session.
Can I combine different massage styles in one session?
Absolutely. My personalised sessions let me blend techniques depending on what your body needs that day. Many clients find this is the most effective approach because every session adapts to how they are feeling.
How do I know which massage to book for the first time?
If you have never had a professional massage before, deep tissue at 60 minutes is a great starting point. It gives me enough time to work on your main areas of tension, and the technique is familiar and straightforward. You can always explore other styles after your first experience.
Do I need to prepare anything before my massage?
Just arrive at my studio a few minutes before your session. For Thai massage, wear or bring comfortable, loose clothing. For deep tissue and sports massage, there is nothing special to prepare. I handle everything else.
Ready to book?
I work from my private studio in Eixample, central Barcelona. Every session is with me personally, and I speak English, Spanish, French and Catalan.
Book your session online anytime. My calendar shows real-time availability with instant confirmation.