Feel looser, move better, recover well: Sports Massage in Southampton
Hands-on sports and deep tissue massage with clinical insight, in central Southampton.
Prefer to talk? Call 02381 102077 and ask about sports massage.
Feeling tight, sore or “wound up” in your body?
Maybe you are training regularly, sitting at a desk all day, or just feeling that everything is a bit stiffer than it used to be.
You don't want to give up training, work or hobbies. You just want your muscles to feel ready for what you ask of them.
Common reasons people book a sports massage here:
Tight neck, shoulders or upper back from desk work
Heavy, tired legs after running, gym or sport
General muscle soreness that is not easing with rest
Feeling “knotted up” before or after an event
Wanting to look after your body, but not needing a full physio assessment yet
You don't want a spa day.
You want something that actually helps your body feel better and move better.
How sports massage at Southampton Physio can help
Sports massage is a focused, hands-on treatment for muscle tension and soreness.
It uses deeper pressure and specific techniques to ease tight areas, support circulation and help your body recover from training, work or life.
At Southampton Physio, your massage is shaped by physiotherapy knowledge, not just a generic routine. That means:
We listen to what is sore, stiff or tired
We look at how you move
We work on the muscles that actually need attention
We give you simple tips so the benefits last longer
What makes Southampton Physio different
Physio-led clinic: Your massage is delivered by clinicians who understand injury, load and recovery, not just relaxation.
Quick screening first: We will always check that massage is suitable and suggest a physio or osteopathy appointment instead if needed.
Relief plus a plan: Where helpful, you will leave with 1–2 simple stretches or exercises to keep things improving between sessions.
Integrated team: If your pain turns out to be more than “tight muscles”, it is easy to move into physiotherapy, strength coaching or Pilates under one roof.
Every week we see active people, office workers and busy parents who just need their body to feel less tight and more capable again.
This is for you if:
You feel tight, sore or “knotted up” but can still get on with your day
You want your muscles to recover better between training sessions
You get recurring tension in your neck, shoulders, back or legs
You stand, lift or walk a lot at work and feel it by the end of the day
You have already had your injury assessed and now want hands-on recovery support
You enjoy the feeling of firm pressure and want something more targeted than a spa massage
You may need a physio / osteopathy appointment instead if:
You have new or unexplained pain that is sharp, severe or getting worse
You have significant swelling, locking, giving way or numbness
Your pain is stopping you from walking, lifting your arm or doing daily tasks
You are not sure what you have done, or you are worried you may have injured something more serious
You have had pain for a long time and it keeps coming back despite massage or rest
If you are unsure, we can help you choose. It is completely fine to email, call, or book an initial physiotherapy / osteopathy assessment instead.
HOW IT WORKS (3-STEP)
Step 1: Book your slot
Use the online booking link to choose a 30, 45 or 60 minute sports massage at our Bedford Place clinic in central Southampton.
Step 2: Quick check-in and targeted treatment
Your clinician will ask a few questions about your training, work and symptoms, then focus your massage on the areas that need it most. Expect firm, but controlled pressure and clear communication throughout.
Step 3: Simple after-care plan
You will leave with realistic advice: how to manage soreness, when to train again, and one or two easy stretches or exercises if helpful.
What people say about hands-on treatment here
★★★★★
“After a few sessions of deep tissue massage, then exercises, I have not had a twinge since.” – Zoë
★★★★★
“Helped me understand what was going on and how to strengthen, with exercises that felt effective but not painful.” – Adam
★★★★★
“Clear explanation, tailored plan, and very supportive. I’m now back to the activities I enjoy.”
★★★★★
“Professional, friendly and holistic. I like that they do not push unrealistic amounts of treatment.” – Karen
Why people choose Southampton Physio
Calm, professional environment in a central Southampton clinic
Clinicians who lift and train themselves, so they understand sport and load
Clear guidance on whether you need massage, physio, or a mix of both
Focus on long-term confidence, not endless appointments
Sports massage pricing
Sports / deep tissue massage is self-pay only and not covered by insurance.
30 minutes – £50
Ideal if you want a focused session on one or two areas, such as neck and shoulders, or calves and hamstrings.
45 minutes – £65
Good balance of time for a full back or legs session, or to cover two main regions without feeling rushed.
60 minutes – £80
Best if you have several areas you would like treated, train hard, or want a thorough head-to-toe reset.
No hidden fees, no extra charges. Just clear pricing and a straightforward booking process.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is sports massage right for me, or do I need physio instead?
If you mainly feel tight, stiff or sore after activity or work, sports massage is often a good starting point. If you have sharp pain, significant weakness, swelling, or a recent injury you are worried about, an initial physiotherapy or osteopathy appointment is usually a better first step.
Will sports massage be painful?
You should feel firm pressure and “good discomfort”, not sharp pain. Your clinician will work with you to find the right pressure and will adjust if anything feels too much. Some mild soreness for a day or two afterwards is normal, similar to workout soreness.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that you can move in is ideal. Shorts are helpful for leg work. You will always be draped appropriately so you feel comfortable and respected.
How often should I have a sports massage?
It depends on your training load, work demands and how your body responds. Some people come every few weeks during busy training blocks, others book as needed when tension builds. Your clinician can help you decide on a sensible plan.
Can I book a sports massage if I am pregnant?
Massage can often be adapted safely during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, but we prefer to triage this first. Please mention pregnancy at booking and we will advise whether sports massage or a different appointment type is more suitable.
Will I get advice or exercises, or is it just massage?
If you would like it, we can give you simple, realistic advice on stretching, recovery and training around your massage. If you want a full assessment and rehab plan, we will guide you towards an initial physiotherapy or osteopathy consultation.
Do I need to stop training after my session?
For most people, light movement is fine, but we suggest avoiding very heavy lifting or new, intense sessions straight after a deep massage. Your clinician will give you clear guidance based on what you do.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes. There is on-street pay-and-display outside and several car parks within a short walk of the Bedford Place clinic.
Can I see the same person each time?
Yes. We value continuity. Once you have found someone you are comfortable with, you can usually stick with them, unless you choose to see another member of the team.