How to choose a massage chair: 10 valuable tips
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From this article you will learn:
- Why is it necessary to choose a massage chair?
- Which massage chair to choose
- How to choose a massage chair for your home
- How to choose a massage cover for a chair
- What are some tips on how to choose a massage chair?
Nowadays, the question of how to choose a massage chair is quite relevant. It is of interest not only to employees of beauty salons, but also to ordinary people who want to buy such a chair for themselves in order to be able to relax at any time. Without being an expert in the field of massage chairs and having no idea what types they come in, what functions they are equipped with and what companies they are manufactured by, you may encounter difficulties when purchasing and make not the best choice. Our article will help you understand the features of these devices and navigate their wide range.
Which massage chair to choose
A massage chair allows you to undergo massage sessions in any conditions that are comfortable for you and at convenient hours, without the help of other people and additional costs of money and time. Compared to portable massagers, it is more functional, since it comes into contact with a larger surface of the body and actively affects it.
A massage chair is a great help in case of muscle spasms. You don’t have to delve into the intricacies of massage and study its technologies for a long time; you just need to lie down in a chair and turn on the desired mode. The positive results are especially noticeable with spasms of the calf muscles: in just a few minutes the ability to walk, run and jump returns.
In addition, such chairs are very useful for diseases of the spine. In particular, massage effectively relieves painful symptoms of thoracic chondrosis.
In addition to diseases of the musculoskeletal system, regular massage sessions using a chair help achieve the following goals:
- Relieving fatigue and muscle tension;
- Activation of blood circulation and metabolic processes in the body;
- Removal of accumulated waste and toxins;
- Elimination of headaches, insomnia and other psychosomatic consequences of stress.
Depending on the purpose and functionality, massage chairs are divided into several types.
Vending
(paid) chairs are equipped with a bill acceptor. Within the amount paid, the consumer can choose any type of massage, its intensity and duration. A stable income is guaranteed if you place this type of device in crowded places - beauty salons, shopping and entertainment centers, gyms, hotels, etc.
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Office
massage chairs, as the name suggests, are designed for the office. Although, of course, you can install such a product at home. Outwardly, it strongly resembles a regular model of an office chair for work, but differs in that it has air compression cushions and other necessary functionality for massage. The exact list of massage modes and other tasks (warming the body, local massage, etc.) varies depending on the specific type of device.
Armchairs for home
have even more functions than office ones, and, as a rule, surpass them in comfort. When choosing a model, it makes sense to first understand what types of massage are most important to you (which parts of the body and in what ways). Then purchase a chair that meets these needs. Additional options such as hydromassage baths, hand massage attachments, and cup stands also play an important role. One of the newest developments is the body scanning function, which allows you to independently, without consulting a doctor, choose the types of massage you need.
TOP 3 best massage chairs for the office
US Medica Chicago
One of the best massage chairs, made in a strict classic style with faux leather covering.
You will be pleased with the reasonable price and durable design that can withstand user weight up to 100 kg. Suitable for vibration and roller massage, as well as Shiatsu procedures.
The model is equipped with a high back and is also adjustable so that the chair can be used by a person of any height.
The chair has a demo program designed to familiarize you with the capabilities of the device.
It has an effect on the back and lower back, relieves muscle tension and swelling. There is a control panel with which it is convenient to switch between modes.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage: Shiatsu, vibration.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control: manual via remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 100 kg.
- Power - 12 W.
pros
- structural stability;
- stylish design;
- there is a heating effect;
- convenient control.
Minuses
- During the massage, a creaking sound is noted.
VictoryFit VF-M828
A modern massage chair that can be placed in the office to relieve tension and relax at the right time.
Here, the backrest tilt and the height of the footrest are adjustable; you can also select the desired zone and the degree of impact on it. The chair works the lower back, legs, neck, back, shoulders and arms, as well as the buttocks and thighs.
There are four automatic programs, including Shiatsu massage, tapping, warm-up and air compression massage.
There is a heating function, a timer and a zero gravity mode, which has a beneficial effect on the spine. Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth module, the user can enjoy their favorite music or listen to an audiobook during the procedure.
The chair can withstand a maximum user weight of up to 130 kg and has a high quality artificial leather cover.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage: Shiatsu, tapping, air compression, warm-up.
- Functions - warming up.
- Number of rollers - 4.
- Air cushions - 4.
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control - manual, automatic, there is a remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 130 kg.
pros
- comfortable L-shaped carriage;
- good impact area;
- convenient adjustment of modes;
- there is a heating effect.
Minuses
- Not suitable for heights above 180 cm.
CASADA HILTON 3
A brown massage chair made of metal and plastic, covered with a textile cover with artificial leather inserts.
Equipped with rollers and air cushions connected to a powerful compressor, which significantly expands the list of available massages: Shiatsu, 3D, vibration, air compression. There is a heating function.
The model is suitable for both home and office use, has a stylish appearance and high quality workmanship.
The chair has a comfortable footrest with height adjustment; the user can also select the optimal backrest angle, set the zone and intensity of the massage. Suitable for tall people as there is a height adjustment.
Controlled via remote control, a total of 10 automatic programs are available.
Thanks to the height adjustment, it can be used by tall people.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage: Shiatsu, 3D, vibration, air compression.
- Functions - warming up.
- Automatic programs - 10.
- Type of control - manual and automatic.
- Maximum user weight is 120 kg.
- Power - 230 W.
pros
- there is a zero gravity mode;
- timer;
- there is an adjustment for height;
- adjustable width between rollers.
Minuses
- no significant ones were found.
Which massage chair to choose from the manufacturer
In addition to functionality, massage chairs also vary greatly in price, which ranges from several tens to several hundred thousand rubles. Based on your needs and capabilities, you can choose a model with the optimal set of functions for you and a good price-quality ratio. Like any other household appliance, massage chairs have their own manufacturer ratings.
The most functional, high-tech and reliable products are from the Japanese company Fujiiryoki, which produces premium chairs. Some models have as many as 700 massage methods in their arsenal. The cost of such devices starts from 360 thousand rubles.
Yamaguchi chairs (Japan) are distinguished by a wide range of possible massage combinations - more than 500, as well as a stylish design. Prices for devices of this brand are slightly lower - from 320 thousand rubles.
Devices from another Japanese company, Sanyo, will delight the buyer with a large number of original technological innovations, such as, for example, measuring stress levels and diagnosing the body, the effect of weightlessness (Zero-G function). Sanyo chairs cost on average 200-300 thousand rubles.
National devices (Japan) are programmed for 350 massage techniques and also have body scanning and Zero-G functions. In addition, they are characterized by a user-friendly interface and simple controls. Their cost ranges from 100 to 250 thousand rubles.
Massage chairs of the American brand US medica are very technologically advanced: they are equipped with a large number of indicators, sensors of the body’s condition, have a warming function and a weightlessness effect. Their prices vary between 100-250 thousand rubles.
The Chinese manufacturer IRest offers easy-to-use devices that have all the important basic and additional functions. They are very practical. Their cost is 50-200 thousand rubles.
In the same price range (80-170 thousand rubles) are the Italian Anatomico devices, which have in their arsenal different massage modes and some of the latest developments, such as Zero-G.
The most affordable massage chairs in terms of price are Massage Paradise (England), the price of which averages 50-100 thousand rubles. They are equipped with a fairly wide range of standard modes, the ability to save the necessary settings and parameters in memory.
TOP 3 best massage chairs by price/quality for 2021
VictoryFit VF-M78
Charcoal faux leather massage chair with comfortable, adjustable footrest.
Due to the equipment with rollers and air cushions, this model allows you to use several types of massage with varying degrees of impact. There is relaxing vibration, stress-relieving tapping, warm-up and Shiatsu.
The compress inflates pillows that gently press on the muscles, increasing blood flow.
Thus, the chair works with the lumbar and back areas, buttocks, neck, arms and legs.
The modes are controlled both automatically and manually; there is a remote control with which you can adjust the backrest tilt, select the massage zone and its intensity.
There is a timer that turns off the chair at the end of the work cycle, as well as the ability to listen to music via a Bluetooth connection.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - Shiatsu, tapping, air compression, vibration, warm-up.
- Functions: warming up, vibration.
- Number of rollers - 10.
- Air bags - 9.
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control: remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 130 kg.
pros
- Beautiful design;
- variety of massages;
- warming effect;
- large impact area;
- retractable footrest.
Minuses
- not suitable for people taller than 180 cm;
- thin padding, which makes the rollers feel stronger.
Casada SkyLiner 2
A premium massage chair that looks more like a space capsule.
It has a wide and widespread area of influence with the possibility of adjustment. The tilt of the backrest can be adjusted to the user's request, up to an almost horizontal position.
The control is manual and automatic, there is a remote control for switching modes.
The chair is equipped with inflatable air cushions and large rollers that run over the entire surface of the back.
There is a timer, a built-in HI-FI system, and listening to music is also available via Bluetooth.
The model has 23 automatic programs, so it is suitable for any user, regardless of his state of health or the load on the body.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - warm-up, tapping, Shiatsu, stretching, rubbing, 3D.
- Functions: stretching, warming up.
- Number of rollers - 10.
- Air cushions - 5.
- Automatic programs - 23.
- Type of control - manual, automatic, there is a remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 141 kg.
pros
- abundance of automatic programs;
- there is warming up;
- slider system;
- Beautiful design;
- The program can be changed and saved to suit you.
Minuses
- not found.
VF-M81
A stylish brown massage chair with black and white accents that allows you to enjoy a regular Shiatsu massage, warm-up or relaxing vibration mode.
This model also has an air-compression effect on the muscles. The area covered by this chair is impressive in its vastness - not a single corner of the body will be left without a massage, especially the back, lower back, shoulders and arms. There is a soft headrest.
Additionally, the chair is equipped with a heating function.
There are 34 built-in casters adjacent to 20 small cushions. 4 automatic programs are controlled via a remote control, the chair can withstand loads of up to 130 kg.
There is also a zero-gravity mode, a timer that turns off the device after the cycle is completed, and the ability to listen to your favorite songs via a Bluetooth wireless connection.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - vibration, warm-up, Shiatsu, air compression.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Number of videos - 34.
- Air bags - 20.
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control - manual, automatic, there is a remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 130 kg.
pros
- high quality artificial leather;
- there is a timer;
- You can listen to music via Bluetooth;
- Beautiful design;
- large impact area.
Minuses
- no significant ones were found.
How to choose a massage chair according to its functions
Back massage
- this is the main purpose of any massage chair, it is performed by all types of devices, even the simplest ones (although, apart from it, there may not be any other modes in ordinary budget models).
Shin massage.
It is produced using air cushions that rhythmically compress the shins.
More expensive and complex devices have a separate shin massage module
.
Foot massage
. It affects a part of the body from different sides: massage pillows compress the foot from the sides and lightly press it against a horizontal surface; on the bottom side of the foot, insoles with pegs built into them are massaged, hitting sensitive points; An option with moving rollers is possible.
Hand massage.
It differs in location (a full massage covers the area from the wrist to the shoulder, there is also a massage of the forearms) and in the technique of execution: using rollers, air cushions, or both at the same time.
3 D massage
– this is the impact of the same rollers, but in several directions at once. By pressing on the upper and lower parts of the body from different sides, a twisting sensation is created. In addition, rollers for 3D massage can be covered with a double layer of rubber and equipped with heating, which imitates the touch of a real massage therapist’s hands on the body.
Zero gravity (
Zero-G)
.
It is ensured by the movement of the chair itself so that the person is in a reclining position. In this way, the load on the musculoskeletal system is reduced, the muscles come into a relaxed state, and the massage gives much better results.
Body scan.
Sensors built into the chair collect information about your height, weight, some anatomical features, and also identify painful and sensitive areas. Then, based on this data, a massage program that is optimal for you is proposed.
Stretching.
The human body is clamped simultaneously in the area of the shoulders and legs, then the chair smoothly changes position, working as a simulator that stretches the spine. This massage technique can be recommended as a measure for the treatment and prevention of intervertebral hernias.
MP3 or DVD player and speakers
. Allows you to listen to music during the session. This helps you relax even more and achieve the maximum effect from the massage.
Rhythm massage function
, available in some models, synchronizes massage movements with the rhythm of the music being played.
Compact Zero Gravity.
It's the same zero-gravity feature, but achieved a little differently: the upper body moves forward, leaving more free space behind the chair. Relevant for small apartments and offices.
Mobile phone control
. The massage chair is synchronized via Bluetooth with your smartphone, and further control occurs with its help. In addition, this way you can also listen to music from your mobile device through the speakers built into the chair.
Possible types of massage and their effects:
- Rubbing massage. Increases blood circulation and metabolism.
- Combined massage. Combines several different types of massage.
- Point impact. Helps relax body muscles.
- Vibromassage. It can have both a calming and stimulating effect.
- Air impact. Works to relax muscles.
- Roller massage. Relieves back pain.
Read material on the topic: Equipment for a beauty salon
TOP 3 best vibration massage chair covers
Gezatone AMG 388
A lightweight cape made of high-quality materials with five automatic modes, which gently vibrates the back and lumbar areas, relieving tension and softening pain after workouts.
Modes are switched via the remote control; the power of the operating cape is estimated at 20 W.
The main feature of this model is the ability to work not only from the mains, but also from the cigarette lighter, which makes it possible to use the cape while on the way to work or on the way back when idle in traffic jams.
And the high headrest affects the neck muscles, strengthening the frame of the body.
Don’t forget about the heating function, which will definitely appeal to many car enthusiasts.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - vibration.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Number of rollers: none.
- Air cushions are missing.
- Automatic programs - 5.
- Type of control: manual via remote control.
- Power - 20 W.
pros
- affordable price;
- good impact area;
- there is a heating function;
- suitable for car.
Minuses
- significant noise level.
Medisana MC 825
Another option for a vibration cape, for home and office use, to relieve muscle tension after a long day of work.
Thanks to the side pads, the device affects not only the shoulders and back, but also the waist. There is a height adjustment, which will allow you to choose the optimal position of the cape for tall people.
The heating function is activated from a manual control panel, as well as four automatic programs.
The user has access to vibration, Shiatsu and 3D massage modes. The material of the cape is textile, easy to clean with brushes and wet wipes.
The model weighs 6 kg, the power is 40 W, there is a built-in timer that regulates the operation of the device during the running cycle.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - vibration, Shiatsu, 3D.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- The number of rollers is missing.
- Air cushions - missing.
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control: manual via remote control.
- Power - 40 W.
pros
- there is an adjustment for the user’s height;
- heating effect;
- high-quality textiles;
- comfortable noise level.
Minuses
- Despite the adjustment of the neck area, it will not fit anyone taller than 180.
Neo Driver BM-03
Another option that can be used not only at home or in the office, but also in the car, since the cape works from the mains and the cigarette lighter.
The stylish design will look appropriate even in the interior of a premium car. The model is equipped with a hand-held control panel, five modes and four programs, by switching which any user will choose the appropriate type of massage for themselves.
In addition to the vibration effect, there is also a compressor that activates 28 air bags.
The cape has a wide impact area, affecting the neck, shoulders, back and lower back, as well as the buttocks and thighs. There is a stretching effect. The area and effectiveness of the massage is adjusted to suit the user's preferences.
The cape can withstand weight up to 200 kg and is made of high quality artificial leather.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage: vibration, warm-up, air-compression.
- Functions: stretching and vibration.
- The number of rollers is missing.
- Air bags - 28.
- Automatic programs - 5 modes, 4 programs.
- Type of control: manual via remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 200 kg.
pros
- works from the cigarette lighter and mains;
- artificial leather covering;
- withstands heavy weight;
- convenient control.
Minuses
- weak impact on the back;
- According to users, the price is too high.
How to choose a massage chair for home and beauty salon
When choosing a massage chair, you need to take into account many factors: its functionality, price, manufacturer, structure, technical characteristics, practicality and reliability, convenience, appearance. However, the most important of them is, of course, the price.
- It is best to give preference to equipment from well-known brands. As a rule, they provide warranties for their products, the possibility of repair and further maintenance. This is worth asking at the purchasing stage.
- The comfort and convenience of different models of chairs can only be determined experimentally, and in different operating modes. People have different needs for massage, and their physical dimensions also differ, so the selection of “your” product can only be approached individually; there are no universal solutions here.
- Find out how to properly care for the chair and how difficult it is to use in everyday life. The more practical and unpretentious it is, the better.
- Think about where and how you will place the device in your apartment or work space. It should, at a minimum, fit into the space allotted to it and not interfere with movement, and ideally, fit into the interior and become an organic part of it.
These characteristics should be given attention first:
- Types of massage available;
- Number of massage combinations (techniques);
- Degree of intensity of impact on the body;
- The presence or absence of automatic modes, their number;
- Options for manually customizing programs to suit your needs;
- Technical capabilities for massage of individual parts of the body (this is very critical if general massage is contraindicated for some reason).
The most useful additional options are infrared and thermotherapy, Zero-G, intelligent body scanning. Among the pleasant, but not vitally important characteristics, we can note the presence of accessories such as a tea table or a built-in player. If financial possibilities are limited, then it is better to neglect them in favor of functionality.
As for the purely technical features of the device, it is necessary to pay close attention, first of all, to the motor and massage mechanism. The engine may be the only one, and then its reliability is the key to stable and trouble-free operation of the chair. Or there are several of them (usually in models with local massage functions), then the load on the main motor is significantly less due to its distribution among all the others.
The use of rollers (preferably of different sizes) will make the massage more effective than using air cushions alone. The main characteristic of casters that you need to look at when choosing a chair is their flexibility.
TOP 3 best roller massage chair covers
ER-MC-015 Ergopower
A car roller cape for massage that will delight you with quality workmanship and an adequate price.
It connects to both a regular outlet and a cigarette lighter, has a classic design and is made of artificial leather with elements of plastic and textiles.
There is a vibration mode and a heating function, ten rollers move over the entire surface of the back, also paying attention to the neck and buttocks.
The massage area and its intensity are adjustable, there are four built-in operating modes.
The manufacturer did not forget about the timer and manual remote control, but you can also use automatic control so as not to be distracted from the road by pressing buttons. The operating power of the cape is estimated at 42 W.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - Shiatsu, rolling, vibration, warming up.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Number of rollers - 10.
- Air bags - none
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control - manual and automatic, there is a remote control.
- Power - 42 W.
pros
- there is a timer;
- quality of execution;
- suitable for tall height;
- Can be used in car.
Minuses
- no significant ones were found.
Medisana MCN
Roller massage cape with height adjustment, which is ideal for relaxing after a long day of work.
It has four automatic programs, they are switched using the remote control. The model has 12 built-in rollers, you can limit the area and effectiveness of the impact, and select the optimal operating mode.
The power is 48 W, and the energy consumption is very small.
Suitable for use in a car as it can be connected to the cigarette lighter.
There are vibration and heating modes, the effect is on the back, neck and hips.
It also uses a built-in timer, after which the cape turns off. The model weighs an optimal 6.5 kg, so there will be no problems with transportation.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - Shiatsu, 3D.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Number of rollers - 12.
- Air cushions are missing.
- Automatic programs - 4.
- Type of control: manual via remote control.
- Power - 48 W.
pros
- there is a timer;
- solid design, does not bend;
- there is an adjustment for height;
- long warranty from the manufacturer.
Minuses
- The width of the massage range is too small.
Beurer MG 206
Inexpensive classic roller cover for an armchair or chair, from a well-known manufacturer and at an affordable price.
Made of high-quality textiles, in calm gray tones. Provides access to regular Shiatsu massage, affecting the muscles throughout the back with 12 rollers hidden under the cover.
Can be used with a chair, but it is best to place this cover on top of a chair for greater stability.
In addition, the model has a heating function and a relaxing vibration mode that relieves muscle tension and increases blood circulation.
There is a timer and backlight; artificial leather inserts are used on the sides, where there is an increased risk of wear.
Three modes are switched using a compact remote control.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - Shiatsu, vibration, stretching.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Number of rollers - 12.
- Air cushions are missing.
- Automatic programs - 3.
- Type of control: manual via remote control.
- Power - 18 W.
pros
- affordable price;
- convenient control;
- impact on the entire back;
- heating effect.
Minuses
- no significant ones were found.
TOP 3 best massage chairs for home
VF-M10
A massive massage chair made of artificial leather, with a convenient control panel, adjustable backrest tilt and footrest height.
It will look appropriate not only in the living room, but also in the office, it will help you relax after a working day and relieve muscle tension after a workout.
There is a heating function, air compression massage, kneading and Shiatsu.
There are 40 rollers and 20 air cushions, so the impact area is large, practically over the entire body.
If necessary, you can choose the effect only on certain areas, as well as its intensity. There is a timer, zero gravity mode and listening to your favorite songs via the built-in Bluetooth module.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage: Shiatsu, air compression, warm-up.
- Functions - warming up.
- Number of videos - 40.
- Air bags - 20.
- Automatic programs - 1.
- The control type is automatic, there is a remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 130 kg.
pros
- quality of artificial leather;
- there is listening to music;
- timer;
- zero gravity mode.
Minuses
- no significant ones were found.
Yamaguchi Liberty
Massage chair from a Japanese manufacturer, equipped with rollers and heating function.
It has an effect on the back, lower back and lower leg, designed in the form of a rocking chair.
Ten built-in rollers glide over the entire back without skipping areas, which indicates a high quality massage.
There is an option for tapping and vibration relaxation, and heating will relieve sore muscles after playing sports.
Note the beautiful design of the frame and the presence of a removable pillow.
The backrest has an adjustable tilt, up to almost horizontal placement.
Each session lasts twenty minutes, there is a remote control for switching modes and activating functions.
Another feature of the chair is its light weight of 18.5 kg, but it can support a user weighing up to 150 kg.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage: Shiatsu, tapping.
- Functions: vibration and heating.
- Number of rollers - 10.
- Automatic programs - 3 modes, 1 program.
- The control type is automatic, there is a remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 150 kg.
pros
- modern laconic design;
- affordable price;
- impact power;
- good work area.
Minuses
- weak swinging inertia.
EVO FITNESS HOME
Another version of a modern rocking chair with ten built-in casters.
A high-quality textile cape and an adjustable footrest angle make this model even more comfortable for home use.
There is a vibration massage that affects the lower back, which is a real salvation for a sore back. There is also a heating function.
With one automatic program, three intensity modes are available.
The control here is automatic, via a remote control. The chair can support user weight up to 160 kg, while it itself weighs 16.6 kg.
The seat depth is 126 cm . The model is well suited for people up to 190 cm tall, is very comfortable and has a nice design, combined with an affordable price.
Main characteristics:
- Type of massage - vibration.
- Functions - warming up.
- Number of rollers - 10.
- Automatic programs - 3 modes, 1 program.
- The control type is automatic, there is a remote control.
- Maximum user weight is 160 kg.
pros
- withstands heavy loads;
- Suitable for height up to 190 cm;
- adjustable footrest angle;
- high quality textiles;
- affordable price.
Minuses
- there is a creaking noise during operation.
Which company should you choose?
In 2021, the following companies are considered production leaders:
- VictoryFit;
- Medisana;
- Ergopower;
- Beurer;
- Yamaguchi;
- CASADA;
- EVO.