There are numerous massage chairs on the market. Some are high quality and offer a wide range of functions some are no better than lazyboys. Here are five considerations that you must take into account when buying a massage chair.
- One of the best massage systems out there is the air massage system. It has a much wider array of features and functions and can preform many more massages than some of the fixed roller systems. The air massage system works through an array of inflatable bags, the bags can be any size and shape and can preform many functions. The bags also eliminate the pinch points and hard pressure points than are common with other systems.
- Most massage chairs will come equipped with a kneading massage function. This is effective because of the repetitive motion which will lead to relaxation and a deep massage. Kneading is usually accomplished with a roller system because of the large surface area that is required to knead effectively.
- If you are after the most relaxation possible from your massage chair I suggest that you invest the extra money in a system that is capable of preforming a foot massage. Many massage chairs stop at the calf or even the bottom, but to really get a full massage you need to include other parts of the body and the feet are critical. Look for a system that incorporates air massage into the foot massage, which will allow the massage to target the many small bones and muscles of the foot.
- Many massage chairs have a tilt function that allows you to lean back to almost a full horizontal level. Many massage chairs are not built for taller individuals so a foot support could be an important addition if you are 6’ or over.
- Last but not least I would suggest finding a massage chair that is capable of at least 5 automatic programs. Now when I say automatic programs I do not mean simply turning the thing on and letting it knead your back until it is raw, but programs that will cycle through a number of different massages and target different areas. Some programs will be aggressive, others will be relaxing, what you are looking for is variety. Massage chairs are no small investment and this is one of the most important functions that will allow you to see a good return on your investment.
Massage chairs are not created equally, so keep your eye out for quality. These are 5 features that I find important when selecting a massage chair but don’t forget that the most important aspect of buying a massage chair is trying out a number of different options and spending enough time in each massage chair to get a good feel for how effective they are.