“Book a massage” sounds simple — until you open the menu. Sports massage? Deep tissue? Swedish? If you’ve ever hovered over the booking page unsure which one you actually need, you’re in good company: it’s one of the most common questions we’re asked at Hove Massage. The two that cause the most confusion are sports massage and deep tissue massage, because they overlap and both involve firm, focused work. Here’s a clear, jargon-free guide to the difference, what each is good for, and how to choose — so you can book the right session with confidence.
The short answer
If you just want the quick version: deep tissue massage is about releasing deep-seated muscle tension and knots, wherever they’ve built up. Sports massage is about how your body moves — it’s geared towards active people, training loads, and specific problem areas linked to activity or recovery. There’s real overlap between the two, and a skilled therapist blends techniques to suit you. The label matters less than the plan.
What is deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage uses slow, firm strokes and sustained pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Rather than gliding over the surface, the therapist works into the areas holding the most tension — the classic tight shoulders, stiff lower back and knotted neck that build up from stress, posture and long hours at a desk.
Many people find it leaves them feeling looser, more mobile and less “wound up” afterwards. At Hove Massage, the deep tissue session also draws on Swedish massage techniques, so it can move between focused clinical work and more flowing, relaxing strokes depending on what your body needs on the day.
Often chosen for: general muscle tension, postural aches, desk-and-screen stiffness, stress that settles in the neck and shoulders, and anyone who simply hasn’t had a massage in far too long.
What is sports massage?
Despite the name, you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from sports massage. It’s built around movement — how your muscles, tendons and fascia cope with the demands you place on them, whether that’s marathon training or long days on your feet.
A sports massage tends to be more targeted and assessment-led: the therapist looks at the specific muscles under strain, the movements that aggravate them, and works towards the root of a recurring niggle rather than just easing the surface. It’s commonly chosen by people who train regularly, are returning to activity, or have a stubborn tight spot that keeps coming back.
Often chosen for: runners, cyclists, gym-goers and team-sport players; muscle tightness and general recovery; and anyone with an activity-related problem area that won’t shift.
So which one should you book?
- Lean towards deep tissue if… your main issue is general tension, stress-related tightness or postural aches from work and everyday life — and you’d like a session that can also be genuinely relaxing.
- Lean towards sports massage if… your discomfort is linked to training, exercise or a specific activity, you’re getting back into movement, or you have a recurring problem area tied to how you move.
- Still not sure? That’s completely normal — and it’s not a decision you have to get “right.” Every session is tailored to you, and Alice adjusts the approach once she’s assessed you. You can also call ahead on 01273 324466 and she’ll happily point you in the right direction before you book.
What about Swedish, Indian head massage and reflexology?
Deep tissue and sports aren’t the only options. Hove Massage also offers:
- Swedish massage — lighter, flowing techniques for relaxation; blended into the deep tissue session, or enjoyed as a gentler full-body treatment.
- Indian head massage — focused work across the scalp, neck, shoulders and upper back, where many of us hold tension without realising. A popular choice for people who spend long hours at a screen and find it hard to switch off.
- Reflexology — a deeply relaxing, non-invasive treatment using precise pressure on points of the feet, lower legs or hands. Many clients describe it as one of the most relaxing treatments they’ve tried.
Each is a 60-minute session, and Alice is happy to advise if you’re unsure which suits you best.
What to expect at your appointment
Whichever treatment you choose, the experience is the same in the ways that matter:
- First-time visitors are asked to arrive 10 minutes early to complete a short, confidential health-history form — this helps Alice tailor the session safely.
- Before starting, she talks through the plan for the session and answers any questions.
- Throughout, she checks in on pressure and comfort — you’re always in control, and the session is adapted to how you feel on the day.
- No treatment goes ahead without your full informed consent.
This is massage delivered in a professional clinical setting, not a spare room. Hove Massage is based inside Chiropractic First, an established multidisciplinary health clinic in Hove, founded in 2006.
Massage in Hove — easy to reach, easy to book
Hove Massage is on the ground floor of Chiropractic First at 82 Goldstone Villas, directly outside Hove train station — under a minute’s walk from the platform, with on-street parking nearby on Goldstone Villas. It’s an easy trip whether you’re coming from Brighton, Portslade, Shoreham or the wider Brighton & Hove area.
Both the deep tissue and sports massage sessions are £60 for 60 minutes (or £35 for a focused 25-minute session), and you can book online 24 hours a day. Gift vouchers are available too — a genuinely useful present for anyone carrying a little too much tension.
Book your massage in Hove
Hove Massage, inside Chiropractic First • 82 Goldstone Villas, Hove, BN3 3RU
01273 324466 • book any time at chiropracticfirst.janeapp.co.uk • gift vouchers available
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between sports massage and deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage focuses on releasing deep-seated muscle tension and knots wherever they’ve built up, and is often chosen for stress, posture and everyday tightness. Sports massage is more movement- and activity-focused, targeting specific muscles under strain and supporting recovery for active people. The two overlap, and a skilled therapist blends techniques to suit you.
Do I need to be an athlete to have a sports massage?
No. Despite the name, sports massage suits anyone whose discomfort is linked to movement or activity — including desk workers, gardeners, parents and people on their feet all day, not just runners and gym-goers.
Does deep tissue massage hurt?
It shouldn’t be painful. Deep tissue uses firmer, more sustained pressure than a light relaxation massage, so you may feel a “good ache” as tight areas release — but your therapist checks in on pressure throughout and adjusts to your comfort. You’re always in control.
How often should I have a massage?
It varies from person to person. Some people book a one-off when tension has built up; others find a session every few weeks helps them stay on top of it, especially if they train regularly or work at a desk. Your therapist can suggest a rough rhythm based on how you feel and what you’re hoping to get from it.
How much is a massage at Hove Massage?
Deep tissue, Swedish, sports, Indian head massage and reflexology are each £60 for a 60-minute session, with a focused 25-minute deep tissue or sports option at £35. You can book online any time, or call 01273 324466.
Where can I get a massage near Hove station?
Hove Massage is on the ground floor of Chiropractic First, 82 Goldstone Villas — directly outside Hove train station, under a minute’s walk from the platform, with on-street parking nearby.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for individual medical advice. If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or are unsure whether massage is suitable for you, please tell us when booking or speak to your GP.
By the team at Hove Massage — therapeutic and clinical massage inside Chiropractic First, 82 Goldstone Villas, Hove.