Chair vs. Table Massage: Which Is Right for Your Event?

Wellness That Works for Your Workplace

Corporate wellness is no longer just a trend—it’s a strategy. More organizations are investing in employee well-being through onsite services like massage, knowing that even short moments of relaxation can have lasting impacts on morale, productivity, and engagement.

But when it comes time to plan a wellness activation, retreat, or appreciation day, the question often arises: Should we offer chair massage or table massage?

Both options bring value, but choosing the right format can make all the difference in your event’s success. Below, we break down the key differences, benefits, and best-fit scenarios for each type—so you can design an experience that supports your people and meets your goals.

Chair Massage: Fast, Flexible, and Office-Friendly

Chair massage is a popular choice for corporate settings—and for good reason. These short sessions (typically 10–20 minutes) are performed on a specially designed chair that allows the client to remain fully clothed while the therapist focuses on high-tension areas: back, shoulders, neck, arms, and hands.

Benefits of Chair Massage:

• No disrobing required
  

• Compact setup (fits in break rooms, lobbies, or conference spaces)
  

• Efficient rotation—perfect for large groups or timed events
  

• Minimal disruption to the workday
  

Chair massage is ideal for busy office environments, high-traffic events, or as a wellness station during team-building days, wellness fairs, or conferences.

Best For:

• Employee appreciation days
  

• Wellness fairs
  

• Lunch-and-learns
  

• Large team-building events
  

• Expo or tradeshow booths
  

Employee Feedback:

At Metropolitan Massage, clients frequently say chair massage is “the highlight of the day.” The ability to relax without changing clothes or stepping too far away from work makes it approachable and appealing to a wide range of employees.

Table Massage: Deep Relaxation for a Premium Experience

Table massage is what most people associate with traditional spa or therapeutic massage. It typically lasts 30–60 minutes and takes place on a padded table in a quiet, private room. Clients disrobe to their level of comfort and are fully draped with sheets while the therapist addresses deeper layers of muscle tension.

Benefits of Table Massage:

• More thorough bodywork, with a broader range of techniques
  

• Deep stress relief and long-term therapeutic effects
  

• Spa-like experience that feels luxurious and restorative
  

• Ideal for VIPs or small groups seeking a more immersive wellness offering
  

Table massage is best suited for retreat environments, leadership offsites, or as a reward for high-performing teams. It requires more space and scheduling coordination but delivers a deeper wellness impact.

Best For:

• Executive retreats
  

• Incentive programs
  

• Wellness room pop-ups
  

• Mental health days
  

• Private team celebrations
  

Client Feedback:

Companies that offer table massage often hear employees say things like, “I feel like a new person,” or “This is the first time I’ve really relaxed in weeks.” It’s a powerful way to show employees they’re deeply valued.

Key Considerations When Choosing

1. Event Size and Flow

• For large groups or limited time, chair massage keeps things moving and is easier to scale.
  

• For smaller groups or personalized attention, table massage creates a memorable and immersive experience.
  

2. Space and Privacy

• Chair massage can be done in open areas or shared spaces.
  

• Table massage requires a private room and additional setup time.
  

3. Goals and Atmosphere

• Looking to energize your team midday or provide a quick wellness break? Go with chair massage.
  

• Want to reward or rejuvenate your leadership team or high performers? Table massage offers deeper restoration.
  

4. Budget and Time

Chair massage is generally more affordable per person and takes less time per session, making it perfect for large or frequent activations.
Table massage requires more time per session and staffing, but delivers a higher-impact experience for select groups.

The Best of Both Worlds

Many of our clients at Metropolitan Massage choose to offer both chair and table massage at different points in the year—or even within the same event. For example:

• Chair massage during a company-wide wellness day
  

• Table massage during a leadership retreat the following quarter
  

This blended approach allows companies to meet a variety of needs and keep wellness programming fresh and engaging.

Call to Action: Let’s Customize Your Perfect Wellness Experience

Whether you’re planning a one-day event or launching a recurring wellness program, choosing the right kind of massage matters. It’s not just about relaxation—it’s about how your company shows up for your people.

At Metropolitan Massage, we make it easy. Our licensed therapists are experienced, professional, and adaptable to your unique event goals. From streamlined scheduling to seamless setup, we take care of the details—so you can focus on delivering a meaningful experience for your team.

Not sure which option is best? Let’s talk.
We’ll help you design a massage experience that fits your space, your schedule, and most importantly—your people.