FAQs

Here at Circle 8, we not only strive to provide a high-quality massage therapy service, but we feel obligated to impart our well-honed knowledge and understanding of the myofascial, musculoskeletal, neural and lymphatic systems. All of our massage therapists are dedicated and passionate about all aspects of massage therapy, and that is why we provide a first-rate, inclusive soft tissue therapy service.

Surprisingly, more people than you make think to have a lot of questions or uncertainties when it comes to thinking about booking a sports massage in Leeds city centre (if you’re like us and this is where you’re based). Besides the abundance of physical and mental benefits you can gain from having a sports massage, which we have highlighted on this sports massage FAQ page, you have a few things to consider first. A sports massage isn’t necessarily the right massage therapy option for everyone but we also offer other types of treatment.

So, we felt that we would try to list and answer the most frequently asked questions concerning massages.

What do I need to do on arrival?

On arrival you can sit back and relax and all we need you to do is fill in a quick consultation form explaining why you are here and which areas you would like worked on.

Do you use wax or oil?

We have a massage range of oils and waxes, we use Songbird Wax which is the best wax you can find.  We also use Grapeseed oil and have a range of amazing Aromatherapy oils also.

How should I feel after a massage?

This all depends on the treatment.  If you book a Sports Massage or a Deep Tissue Massage then you may feel quite tired, possibly a little sore but also should have far less pain and more movement in the muscles we have worked on.  If you book one of our relaxing or holistic massage treatments you should feel like you are walking on clouds and in a total state of relaxation.

Are your massage beds heated?

So our massage bed in the Holistic Room is a very comfortable Master Massage Thermatop couch which is heated.  The massage bedsin our 2 Sports Massage rooms are not heated.

Can I choose the background music for the massage?

Of course you can, if you would prefer to listen to something else please just let us know, we have Spotify so it won’t be a problem.

If I’m late can we add the additional time on at the end?

We always try to accommodate but it isn’t always possible.  If your therapist does have another appointment straight after then unfortunately we cannot add the additional time on the end.

What happens If I need to reschedule my appointment?

You can reschedule your appointment up to 5 hours before it begins.  Any later and unfortunately it will not be possible, this is because it will be very difficult for us to fill your slot within 5 hours.

What is the Circle 8 Signature Treatment

The Circle 8 Signature massage is an amazing mix of a Full Body Relaxing Swedish Massage with hot Aromatherapy oils and finishes off with an amazing Indian head and face massage.  This Treatment really will leave you feeling like melted butter.

Which Therapist should I Choose?

So this all depends on which Treatment you choose as certain treatments are only available with certain therapists.  What we can promise though is no matter which therapist you choose your treatment will be professional and you will feel much better when you leave compared to when you arrive.

If I book multiple treatments will they be with the same Therapist?

Depending on the treatments you book you could possible be with a different therapist / different room.  We will always aim to keep you in the same room but it isn’t always possible.

What is a Swedish Massage?

A Swedish massage is probably one of the most common forms of massage but also one of the lightest pressure massages you can get.  A Swedish massage is more for relaxation using long softer pressure strokes to help relieve stress.

How does a Hot Stone Massage Work?

A Hot Stone Massage uses Basalt stones that are heated and placed on certain parts of the body.  The Hot Stones heat certain areas of your body to promote relaxation and circulation.  The Stones are heated to around the 50 degree mark prior to being placed on your body and don’t worry there will not burn you or leave any marks.

What is Aromatherapy Massage?

Aromatherapy massage is essentially a Swedish Massage combined with the power and healing effects of essential oils.  Our skilled therapists will select one of our blended aromatherapy oils based on how you are feeling.

What does an Indian Head Massage do?

Indian head massage also known as Champissage is a very relaxing treatment that focuses on using both Swedish massage and acupressure techniques on certain points of the head and face.  We definitely recommend trying one of these as they really do feel amazing.

How does Reflexology Work?

Reflexology is an amazing treatment which can massively help to reduce and eliminate stress, make you feel more relaxed and even make you feel more energised.  It works by applying pressure to certain points of the foot, hands and ears, in doing so this stimulates the nervous system which then will send a positive message to your central nervous system.  This in turn will have many positive effects on the body.

How hot is the Oil on a Hot Oil Massage?

A Hot oil massage is a Relaxing Swedish Massage using either our standard massage oil or aromatherapy oils.  The oil is heated up to around 50 degrees before being applied to the body.  We find the hot oil helps you to relax much faster.

How does a Thai Massage differ from a Deep Tissue Massage?

So they are as different as they are similar.  Thai massage generally will be performed on a mat rather than a massage bed.  It uses a mixture of deep tissue techniques combined with stretching and yoga movements.  It can be fairly intense but you will leave feeling very relaxed!

What does a Full Body Fix consist of?

This is the most comprehensive treatment we offer.  Are you fed up of having little niggles, pain when you walk or shoulder problems when you train in the gym?  If so, this treatment may be for you!

We complete a range of tests and assessments including, Postural, Movement, Neurological and Muscular. We combine this with some hands on massage and finish off by taking you in to our Rehab Chamber where we will explain what is causing your issue, how we can fix it, show you a range of exercises and stretches and provide you with a tailored training or rehab programme to restore you and your body to full fitness.

When should I book an Exercise Technique Session?

Want to learn a new exercise in the gym, or check your lifting technique is up to scratch?  The Exercise Technique Session might be exactly what you are looking for.

The exercise technique session is a 1-2-1 session with Ant who had over 10 years within the PT industry, he will talk take you through the exercise step by step to ensure your technique is flawless.  Most gym injuries and muscular issues are caused by incorrect technique and poor form in the gym, the exercise technique session aims to fix this!

What is a Gym Ready Session?

This session is for gym novices and seasoned lifters alike!  Are you new to the gym and aren’t really sure what do to, how to structure your workouts or even how to train properly and safely?  The Gym Ready Session will ensure you feel not only comfortable and confident in the gym, but also safe in knowing you training properly with correct form but also training with a purpose or a goal in mind.

We also offer 1-2-1 training in our PT studio for those who want to be pushed!

How does an Injury & Rehab session work and should I have a massage before selecting this treatment?

Do you have a specific ache or pain that just doesn’t seem to want to go away!?  Do certain movements cause pain and you can’t figure out why?  A Sports Injury & Rehab session may be exactly what you need.  We will use various tests and a movement screening to figure out exactly what is causing the issue and then provide you with the tools to fix it.  There is no Sports massage within this treatment but you may not need a Sports massage to fix the problem.

When can I have a pregnancy massage and is it safe?

Firstly a pregnancy massage is very safe, but just to be totally on the safe side we cannot offer this treatment until you are past the first trimester.  Pregnancy massage can help relax your muscles and offer some relief during your pregnancy. Please see our pregnancy treatment page to find out all of the positive effects this can have on your body.

Book online today

When you come for a massage at Circle8 we don’t just treat your issue and send you away, we find out exactly which movements and muscles are causing it, explain to you what’s actually happening, give you exercises in the gym and at home that you can do to help alleviate and eventually get rid of your issue.