Choosing guide

Which massage is right for me?

7 min read Updated 5 Jul 2026 ESCAPE Thai Massage, Prague

We offer around sixteen kinds of massage, so it's completely normal to feel a little lost the first time. This guide helps you choose by what you actually want – whether that's switching off entirely, easing a sore back, or looking after yourself after sport. For each path you'll find the specific type, a suggested length and how firm the pressure should be.

In short: choose by your goal – relaxation → oil/aroma, pain and knots → traditional or back-neck-shoulders, sport → sports massage, pregnancy → pregnancy massage. For a first full-body session, pick 90 minutes.

Start with three quick questions

Before you pick a specific type, it helps to answer three questions. They narrow the choice down almost on their own.

For the full breakdown of types and techniques see Types of massage, and for prices by length our pricing guide.

Which massage is right for me at ESCAPE spa in central Prague
ESCAPE spa · Elišky Krásnohorské, Prague 1 – Staré Město

I'm getting a massage for the first time

If you've never tried Thai massage, you have two good options. Traditional Thai massage is done without oil, over comfortable clothing (which we lend you), and combines stretching, palm pressure and work along energy lines – it's more active, a bit like “exercising while lying down.” If you'd rather simply lie back and be looked after, go for an oil massage with unscented argan oil – it's smoother and softer.

Whichever you choose, book 90 minutes for your first time and feel free to tell your therapist it's your first visit – they'll adjust the pace and pressure. There's more on what to expect in What is Thai massage. You can book traditional Thai or an oil massage online.

I mainly want to relax and switch off

If pure rest is the goal, go for oil massages with smooth, calming strokes. Lean toward SOFT pressure.

If you want a genuine ritual just for yourself, look at our signature Ritual of Calm.

My back, neck and shoulders ache – and I've got knots

Tension and “knots” respond to deeper work. This is where STRONG pressure earns its place – always within what feels good to you.

If you sit at a computer all day and the pain is specifically in your upper back and neck, go straight for the back, neck & shoulders massage – it's built for it.

Stress, poor sleep and an overloaded head

When tension sits mainly in the head, jaw and neck, a mix of gentle oil strokes and headwork helps.

Keep both on the SOFT side – the aim is to slow down, not to “wake up” the body.

Sport, fatigue and tired legs

For an active body we have targeted options depending on what's bothering you.

After a harder session, a mix of deep work and heat makes sense – just ask for firmer pressure where you need it.

Pregnancy and special occasions

Some situations have their own, safe choice.

Still not sure? Just ask us

That's fine – it's the most common situation in the world. You can get advice straight from us: message or call +420 734 331 444 (WhatsApp too), tell us what's bothering you and how firm you like it, and we'll recommend a specific type and length. We're open daily 10:00–22:00.

Want everything in one place? See our full list of massages or simply book online – we'll fine-tune the type and timing together.

Choose yours and book online

Know what you need? Reserve your slot in a moment – or message us and we'll help you decide.

Book online

Frequently asked questions

Which massage is best for a first visit?
For a first visit we recommend traditional Thai massage (more active, with stretching) or an oil massage (calmer, you just lie back). Book 90 minutes so the therapist can work through the whole body.
How do I know if I want SOFT or STRONG pressure?
SOFT is gentle and relaxing, STRONG is deep and stimulating. If you're mainly there to rest, choose SOFT; if you're tackling knots and tension, choose STRONG. We always fine-tune the pressure as we go.
Which massage should I pick for desk-work back pain?
The back, neck & shoulders massage is ideal – it targets exactly the area strained by sitting all day. For overall stiffness, traditional Thai massage with firmer pressure works too.
How long should the massage be?
For full-body we recommend 90 minutes – 60 minutes goes by fast. Targeted massages (back, head, feet) make sense even at 30–60 minutes. You'll find prices by length in our pricing guide.
I'm pregnant – which massage is safe?
Always choose the dedicated pregnancy massage, done gently and in safe positions. We offer it at 60 or 90 minutes. Avoid traditional Thai massage with its stretching.
I can't decide – can you help?
Yes, gladly. Message or call +420 734 331 444 (WhatsApp too), tell us what's bothering you and how firm you like it, and we'll recommend a specific type and length.
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