Deep tissue or connective tissue massage? The difference, and what suits you.
Deep tissue massage and connective tissue massage both work deeply, but on different layers: deep tissue works on your muscles, while connective tissue massage works on the connective tissue beneath your skin. BODYFIX does not offer deep tissue massage. Here we explain the difference and when connective tissue massage may be a suitable alternative.
What is deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage is a firm massage of your muscles. The therapist works slowly with substantial pressure on the deeper muscle layers, often using thumbs, forearms or elbows.
People often choose it for tense muscles in their neck, shoulders or back, or after exercise. Many massage therapists and salons offer deep tissue massage. It is not part of the BODYFIX treatment range.
What is connective tissue massage?
Connective tissue massage is a deep, hands-on massage. With targeted manual techniques and pressure, we work on the connective tissue beneath your skin: the fascia. Fascia forms one continuous network throughout your body.
BODYFIX has used its own method since 2008, from face to legs. Our therapists learn it with us. Our aim: more supple tissue and smoother skin. More about connective tissue massage → What is connective tissue massage?.
The difference at a glance
| Deep tissue massage | Connective tissue massage at BODYFIX | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Your muscles, including the deeper muscle layers | The connective tissue (fascia) beneath your skin |
| Technique | Slow movements and substantial pressure, often using forearms or elbows | Hands-on, with targeted manual techniques and pressure |
| Why people choose it | Tense muscles, or after exercise | Your skin and the tissue beneath it, for example for cellulite, a scar or after liposuction |
| How it feels | Deep pressure | Firm and focused. You set the pressure and pace |
| At BODYFIX | Not in our treatment range | From face to legs, from €70 per 30 minutes |
Both can feel firm. The difference is the focus: your muscles or the connective tissue beneath your skin.
Which should you choose?
Is it about your muscles? For example, a stiff neck or shoulders after exercise? Choose a therapist who offers deep tissue massage. If you have persistent pain, see your GP first.
Is it about your skin and the tissue beneath it? Then connective tissue massage is an alternative. For example:
- Cellulite on your legs and buttocks: Legs & Buttocks Connective Tissue Massage
- Your abdomen, arms, or neck, shoulders & back: Body Connective Tissue Massage
- Your face, jaw and neck: Facial massage
- Recovery after liposuction or another procedure: After Liposuction
- Your abdomen after childbirth, or a caesarean scar: Postpartum Massage
- Your legs with lipoedema: Lipoedema Treatment
Unsure? During a free 10-minute intake, we can discuss what suits you.
What connective tissue massage at BODYFIX involves
First we assess, then we treat. We start with Body Reading: we look for tension, fluid or adhesions and ask what you want to achieve. Then we massage your chosen zones in a set order. We adjust the pressure to what feels comfortable for you.
One zone takes 30 minutes and costs €70. Two zones take 60 minutes (€140), three zones 90 minutes (€210). With a series of 5, you pay less per session, from €65. Want to add lymphatic drainage in the suit? You can combine them in one appointment: The Ultimate BODYFIX Massage, from €115.
Frequently asked questions about deep tissue and connective tissue massage
What is deep tissue massage?
A firm massage of your muscles. The therapist works slowly with substantial pressure on the deeper muscle layers. People often choose it for tense muscles or after exercise.
Does BODYFIX offer deep tissue massage?
No. We offer connective tissue massage: also deep, but focused on the connective tissue beneath your skin rather than your muscles. Looking specifically for muscle work? Choose a therapist who offers deep tissue massage.
What is the difference between deep tissue and connective tissue massage?
Deep tissue works on your muscles. Connective tissue massage works on the connective tissue, or fascia, beneath your skin. Both can feel firm, but they have different aims.
Is connective tissue massage a deep massage?
Yes. Connective tissue massage is a deep, hands-on massage. You can feel the firm, focused work. We adjust the pressure to your comfort and you set the pace.
What is bindweefselmassage called in English?
Connective tissue massage. It differs from deep tissue massage, even though the names sound similar.
Do you also massage the neck?
Yes. Body Connective Tissue Massage includes a separate 30-minute zone for the neck, shoulders & back. The facial massage also includes your jaw and neck.
In the booking system, choose: Bindweefsel Nek, Schouders & Rug (30 min).