No—this is a sports massage, which is quite different from a typical spa massage. While it can include a variety of techniques tailored to your specific goals, it’s generally not designed to be a relaxing experience. The focus is on addressing muscular tightness, tension, or dysfunction, often with firm, targeted pressure. I do use creams or waxes to reduce friction during treatment, but these are practical, unscented/mildly scented products—not aromatherapy-based. There are no candles, incense, or spa-like elements—just focused, clinical care aimed at helping you move and feel better.

That’s a great question—and the honest answer is: probably a bit, yes. Sports massage is designed to target tight or dysfunctional tissue, so it’s common to experience some discomfort during certain parts of the treatment. That said, everyone’s pain tolerance and sensitivity are different. Some people find it quite satisfying, while others find it more intense. I always tailor the pressure, technique, and focus areas to suit your needs, goals, and comfort levels. You’re encouraged to give feedback during the session so we can adjust as needed. The aim is effective treatment, not unnecessary pain.

Bruising is not the goal—and in most cases, it doesn’t happen. However, some people may experience mild redness or warmth after treatment, which is typically a sign of increased blood flow and chemical activity in the area, not tissue trauma. That said, individual responses vary. Some people—especially those with fair or sensitive skin—may bruise more easily. Women also tend to bruise more readily than men. If you’re taking blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin, warfarin, or clopidogrel), I generally advise against sports massage, as these increase the risk of bruising due to reduced clotting ability. I always aim to apply appropriate pressure based on your tolerance and medical history. While bruising is rare, it can’t be completely ruled out.

Sports massage can absolutely be used as part of a proactive maintenance strategy, especially for those training regularly or preparing for events. Unlike physiotherapy—where I don’t support long-term ongoing treatment unless all appropriate investigations have been exhausted—sports massage can be used more flexibly. Some people benefit from a massage every 4–6 weeks to stay on top of tightness or minor niggles, while others prefer to book as and when needed, which is perfectly fine. During intense training periods or in the lead-up to an event, some clients even come in multiple times per week for a short period. Everyone is different. At Chris Heywood Physio, there’s no set formula. I work collaboratively and individually, helping you find the right approach based on your goals, lifestyle, and current physical demands.

That’s a completely fair question. The difference in price reflects the quality, time, and expertise I offer—not just the length of the session. I provide longer, focused appointments that allow for proper assessment, hands-on treatment, and clear rehab planning—not quick, volume-based treatments. With over 25 years of clinical experience, advanced qualifications, and a strong evidence-based approach, every session is tailored to you and designed to deliver meaningful results. If you’re simply looking for the cheapest option or a quick fix, I may not be the right fit. But if you value honest advice, clinical expertise, and care that puts your outcome first, you’re in the right place.

This depends on the area we need to treat. I will always do my best to maintain your dignity throughout the session, and I encourage you to wear comfortable, appropriate clothing that allows access to the body part being addressed (e.g. shorts or appropriate under for legs, vest tops or appropriate bra's for shoulders/back etc). You're very welcome to bring a chaperone with you if it makes you feel more comfortable—there’s plenty of space in the room for this - my sports massage chaperone guidance can be found on the "what to expect from my sports massage page". At no point will I examine or expose genitalia or any private areas. Any inappropriate expectations or requests will lead to the session ending immediately, and you will not be rebooked. Your comfort, consent, and trust are always my top priority, as is my own safety.

Yes—absolutely. Any hands-on massage or soft tissue treatment can cause fluid shifts within your muscles and connective tissues. If you don’t rehydrate properly afterwards, it’s quite common to experience symptoms like thirst, fatigue, or mild headaches. Drinking plenty of water after your session helps your body recover, supports circulation, and can enhance the overall benefits of the treatment. It’s a simple but important part of your post-massage care.