It depends on why you are coming. There is no single schedule that suits everyone, so your Registered Massage Therapist suggests one after your first session, based on your goal, how your body responds and what your budget or benefits allow.
As a general pattern, people working on a specific problem come more often for a short time, and people coming for maintenance spread visits out.
If you are dealing with a specific problem
For a tight, painful area, sessions are usually closer together at first and then spaced out as it improves. Your therapist will often give you stretches or self-care to do between visits so each session builds on the last.
If you train or compete regularly
Athletes often book around their training blocks: more regularly in heavy phases or in season, less in lighter periods. For timing around events, read should I get a massage before or after a game or race?
If you want general maintenance
For everyday tension from work, stress or poor sleep, many people settle into a regular rhythm that fits their schedule. The right interval is the one where you feel the benefit carry through to your next visit.
What changes the answer
- How long the problem has been there
- How physically demanding your job or sport is
- How you felt in the days after your last session
- Whether you are doing the home care your therapist suggested
- Your yearly insurance maximum for massage therapy
Signs to change the plan
If you feel no difference after a few sessions, tell your therapist. They may change the approach or suggest an assessment with physiotherapy or chiropractic. See a doctor for pain that is getting steadily worse, wakes you at night, or comes with numbness, weakness, fever or unexplained weight loss.
More about the service is on the registered massage therapy page.
Want a plan that fits your training and schedule?