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Posts tagged massage
Chris Spears Massage
May 4th
Whether you’re an elite athlete, weekend warrior, casual gym-goer or anywhere in between, regular massage will rejuvenate your body and your mind. Get to know massage therapist Chris Spears and her specialty massage practice in Austin.
What is Chris Spears Massage?
Chris Spears Massage was founded to help people meet their fitness goals and enhance their athletic performance by relieving muscular tension and pain, while increasing range of motion and recovery time. I focus on specific muscle groups to address each clients’ individual needs.
Using a variety of techniques, my goal is to increase blood flow to the muscles which will reduce chronic pain, increase restricted range of motion and break down scar tissue in the muscles. This prevents injury, allows the body to recover more quickly, and enhances performance.
Why did you start Chris Spears Massage?
In my previous life, I was in IT Sales for 5 years. When the thought of sitting indoors, staring at a computer screen all day became more than I could take, I looked towards a career that would be more fulfilling. I needed to feel like I was making a difference in peoples’ lives and helping them to achieve their goals. When I went to massage school to obtain my license, it was always a goal of mine to own my own business. I first began working at a well-known deep tissue clinic to gain hands-on experience, then when the time was right, I founded Chris Spears Massage and never looked back!
How long have you been in business?
My one year anniversary for opening Chris Spears Massage is coming in September. This first year has flown by! I’m looking forward to many more years serving the Austin athletic community.
Where are you located? What’s your schedule?
Chris Spears Massage is conveniently located in Central Austin, near UT Campus and Hyde Park, just off 32nd Street. I work Monday through Friday all day and into the evening on certain days. Usually I take on clients 1-2 Saturdays a month, as long as I’m not working an athletic event around town.
What is you massage style/philosophy?
My work is a combination of various styles of massage; Myofascial Release, Deep Tissue massage, and Trigger Point Release. No two bodies are the same, so no two people will ever receive the same massage; every session is unique. I understand everyones’ needs are different as well, so I customize each one of my sessions to how my client is feeling at that moment, what type of training they’ve been doing, if they are preparing for an event and their specific physical goals.
Who is Chris Spears Massage for? (what’s a typical client profile?)
I work on a wide range of individuals and different body types. My experience has been with both elite and amateur athletes competing in various activities such as cycling, running, Olympic lifting, Triathletes, Yogis, Weekend Warriors and Desk Jockeys. My clients also range greatly in their age, ability and lifestyle. Massage is one of those wonderful practices that truly benefits everyone.
What are the benefits to getting a massage?
Massage has been proven to aid in injury prevention and recovery, which is important regardless of occupation and athletic ability. Typically within 2-3 sessions, clients can experience greater range of motion, increased flexibility, reduced inflammation, enhanced performance and pain relief.
Besides the physical benefits listed above, massage is also a great stress reliever, leading to greater relaxation and better, more sound sleep….things we could all use more of!
What should a new client expect at their first session?
First, I want to learn about their physical activity level, what type of sports/hobbies they are involved with and if they’ve had any injuries in the past. It’s also important for me to learn about the goals they have set; whether it’s training for a specific event or maintaining a strong, healthy body in general. Postural analysis and functional movement exercises also aid my efforts to learn more about my clients.
Typically post-session, I like to demonstrate stretches and/or strength exercises, focusing on a particular ‘problematic’ muscle group. I offer my recommendation of a treatment plan and check in with my clients to make sure their expectations were met after each appointment.
Client Testimonials
Chris Spears is one of the best massage therapists I’ve seen in Austin. She listens to my needs, and focuses her massage on areas I’ve mentioned are troubling me. She has strong hands and gives an extremely firm and deep massage when needed. Her massages are effective at loosening up tight muscles and tendons. Chris is friendly and you can tell she enjoys her job – she puts real effort into her massage and isn’t just going through the motions. I see measurable improvements in my running performance after a session with Chris. I recommend her to anyone who wants to stay injury free while training hard.
~ Chris Kimbrough, ROGUE Elite runner and 2008 Olympic Trials Marathon Qualifier, Austin, TX
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Chris is a wonderful massage therapist. What I like about her is that she is an athlete herself and understands what active people need in terms of massage therapy. I’ve been a client for over a year and hope to be as long as I need massage. When my muscles are all knotted up, Chris can apply really deep pressure that helps the healing process. Her knowledge of anatomy physiology is also great. When I tell her where I am in pain and how I caused it, she always knows just what to do to fix it.
I first went to her for a shoulder injury that doctors had even failed to identify what was wrong. She was the first person able to make it feel better , but what I really liked is that she was so determined to help. Getting massage from someone who loves what they do makes all the difference.
~ Dude S., Austin, TX
About the the owner, Chris Spears
After graduating from UTSA, I went straight into IT Sales, moving up the corporate ladder for 5 years. I finally reached a point when my job wasn’t fulfilling me emotionally and I knew it was time to explore other options. With the support of a very patient husband, I began my career transition to massage three years ago and have never regretted my decision. I love that I get to interact with my clients face to face and am presented with new challenges on a daily basis.
Being an athlete myself, I can relate to my clients’ athletic needs and understand how pain limits one’s ability to perform. I have a diverse athletic background, playing both volleyball and softball while in school, and later transitioning to running half marathons, participating in various bootcamps around Austin and developing a regular Vinyasa yoga practice. After spending 5 years in a cubicle stuck behind a desk, I can’t get enough exercise outdoors!
Favorite types of fitness activities/workouts
When I’m not working to make my clients feel good and strong, you can find me running the Greenbelt with my dog/pace setter, on the yoga mat or lifting weights at Dane’s Body Shop. I love that my career requires me to stay strong and healthy and I hope to inspire my clients to do the same.
Favorite places to eat in Austin
There are a couple criteria that have to be met when it comes to picking a place to eat: they must be local and serve locally sourced, natural ingredients. Olivia’s, Snack Bar, East Side Cafe, Blue Dahlia Bistro are just a few favorites….I could go on and on when it comes to food. I love to eat!!
One fitness accessory or clothing you can’t live without
Lululemon anything. Ever since I was introduced to their leggings and running shorts, I haven’t worn anything since. I’m fortunate that in my line of work, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear workout clothes to work!
Connect with Chris to learn more about Chris Spears Massage
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Perk alert! MyFitCard holders get a free 30-minute add on when booking your first appointment! Must present MyFitCard at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers. MyFitCard gives you deals and discounts, like this, at fitness businesses all over town. Get your MyFitCard today!
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
The Austin Bodyworker Welcomes New Therapist
Jan 11th
Featured fit business, The Austin Bodyworker, recently welcomed a new therapist to their talented team of award winning massage therapists. This means more availability to schedule a massage and even more treatments and therapies to help your body feel great. In addition to clinical massage, they now offer treatments including cupping, moxibustion, magnet therapy and more. The Austin Bodyworker is so excited about their newest therapist that they’re offering $20 off your first 60 or 90 minute session with George in January.
Meet George Tabares, CMT, CPT, HHP >>
George’s influences include eastern holistic bodywork, sports and clinical massage, personal training and nutrition.
He will be seeing clients for clinical massage and for eastern therapies, including cupping, moxibustion, gua sha and magnet therapy.
Learn more about The Austin Bodyworker:
- MyFitList Profile
- Blog: Get to know The Austin Bodyworker
- Blog: Benefits of Clinical Massage
- Blog: The Difference Between Clinical Massage & Spa Massage
- MyFitCard Perk
- The Austin Bodyworker Online
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
The Austin Bodyworker: Grand Opening Party!
Nov 28th
Come celebrate the Grand Opening of The Austin Bodyworker with us on Wednesday 30th from 4-9pm at their new location!
Whether you’re already a client or thinking about giving them a try, swing by their party. Meet the therapists, see the new space, and win some great fitness-related prizes from area businesses.
Here’s a sneak peak at some of the awesome door prizes:
- Two Private Pilates Sessions from Mauro Pilates
- $100 Gift Certificate to Scoring Solutions Golf
- Unlimited December Classes from Dancers Shape
- Messenger Bag from Rocket Science Sports
- MyFitCard loaded with fitness perks and discounts
…and more from your favorite local fitness businesses!
The Austin Bodyworker is located at the corner of 12th & Lamar at 916 West 12th Street, Suite D (you’ll find the clinic BEHIND Bettysport & The Tavern)
For more information and to RSVP, check out the Facebook Party Invite: http://www.facebook.com/events/159339507496876/
See you there!
The Difference Between Clinical & Spa Massage
Aug 19th
Massage can be a really important part of reaching your fitness goals. Active people of all levels credit massage for repairing and preventing injuries. There are a variety of massage types available out there, and it’s definitely worth knowing the difference between a “Clinical” or ”Sports” massage style versus a “Spa” or “Swedish” massage. Learn more in this guest blog post from Kate Ripley, massage therapist and owner of Austin Bodyworker, on how clinical and spa massage are different, and which type of massage is best for you!
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Spa (aka Swedish) Massage - Long, flowing massage strokes (called effleurage) to relax the nervous system and help create a sense of general relaxation, reduce stress and enhance well-being. Usually, there is no particular areas of focus and it is almost always a full-body experience.
Clinical (aka Sports) Massage – More targeted or focused work on specific areas of the body which the client alerts the massage therapist to. A general warm-up (effleurage) is a way to get the tissues and body ready for more in-depth work (such as trigger point compression or separating the tissues) for the majority of the massage session. This type of work is good for repetitive-stress and repetitive-use injuries, muscle soreness/tightness and general stress relief. Rarely is the session a full-body experience, unless the client has booked a longer session to allow for the time it takes for the tissues to really let go and allow for deeper work.
The Austin Bodyworker is a clinical massage office located at 12th and Lamar in Austin. We have a staff of massage therapists who specialize in clinical massage and have years of experience in their respective fields. Make an appointment anytime with our 24/7 online scheduler, making it easy to schedule when you are ready, no matter the time of day or night. New clients who schedule for a 60-or 90-minute sessions enjoy $20 off their first session. We want to take the scary out of finding a massage therapist who you “click” with!
- Kate Ripley, Owner and Therapist
The Austin Bodyworker, Clinical Massage Clinic
About Kate Ripley: I have been a “clinical” massage therapist for 8 years now and still have a deep passion for the work that I am lucky enough to get to do. I feel that drive to help my clients achieve their goals for health, obtain a level of movement without pain and also to help them feel good and help foster a good mind-body connection. What is contained within this article is purely my opinion and should not be taken as fact, or a representation of facts.
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Fit Business of the Week: Lisa Holden Massage
Jul 5th
Our Fit Business of the week is Lisa Holden Massage. One of Austin’s most sought after therapists, Lisa Holden is an expert in a range of different therapies, from sports massage, to rehab, to prenatal massage.
How long have you been in business?
I began doing massage therapy in 2001. I was inspired to pursue a career in massage therapy after the birth of my son, when a neonatal nurse demonstrated massage techniques to accelerate my boy’s departure from the neonatal ICU. The nurse in the NICU saw that I was scared and stressed and she gave me a gift that has brought so much joy to my life. Even though I plan to become a RN in two years, I will always continue my massage practice because it fills my soul. I feel blessed to have found meaningful work, which reaps great benefit to people in all walks of life.
Where are you located?
I offer massage in my home studio, Performance Wellness, and outcall massage.
Receiving outcall massage allows you to relax in your own home without having to travel to the massage and soon after the massage – the massage comes to you. I bring everything needed including a comfortable massage table, linens, lotions and relaxing music.
What is your massage style/philosophy?
The first thoughts that run through my mind when I begin a massage are, “What’s going on with this person” and “How can I help?” I believe the body is fluid and can be guided to heal through massage. The key to this approach is an understanding that everyone’s body is different, and I often must be a detective and a sleuth to uncover what is ultimately causing discomfort or inefficiencies. As a consequence, every massage is custom-tailored to the specific need of a client.
My guiding principle is to always keep learning about the body. I believe massage therapy is absolutely necessary to leading an optimal life. I love giving people their very first massage and opening up that whole new world, and the ongoing relationship which develops between me and my clients.
What is the typical profile of your clients?
I work on many different people with different goals, concerns, issues, ages, and backgrounds. Although many of my clients are athletes performing at high levels, I also volunteer massage therapy for Hospice Austin.
What are the benefits of massage?
People use massage for a variety of health-related purposes, including to relieve pain, rehabilitate sports injuries, reduce stress, increase relaxation, address anxiety and depression, and aid general wellness.
What should clients expect at their first session? How should they prepare?
On the day of your first appointment, please arrive 10 minutes early to fill out a medical history form. Express any concerns you have before, during, or after the massage. We can discuss your concerns before the massage and decide together on an approach that will benefit you. I have listed below the most common concerns clients have before their first session.
Why do I have to tell you my medical history?
Massage affects your body in ways that go far beyond your skin and muscles. Massage affects your cardiovascular system and your immune system, and stimulates your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the relaxation response. It is important to determine that massage is safe and appropriate for you. A full medical history can also help me be aware of any areas that need to be avoided, such as a recent injury site or skin condition.
Do I have to take all my clothes off and will I be exposed?
No. You will get unclothed to your comfort level, and in no instance will be fully exposed. For some clients the comfort level may mean leaving the undergarments on. That is fine. Most people who receive massage regularly find it safe to undress completely, allowing me, as the massage therapist, to access the lower back and hip area. You will then get under a sheet and blanket. You will be fully covered except for the area of the body that is being massaged. The genitals and breasts are never exposed or massaged. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, so do what feels right to you.
Should I talk during the massage?
Some of my clients like complete silence so they can relax, while others like the social interaction. To talk or not to talk is up to you. Please always tell me if something feels uncomfortable. It won’t hurt my feelings. The most important thing is that you’re in the right state of mind to get maximum benefit from your message.
Should massage be painful?
If your goal is to relieve muscle tension and pain, you may feel some discomfort during the massage as I work through problem areas. However, it’s important that discomfort doesn’t cross over to a level that causes you to become tense or otherwise stressed states that are counterproductive to healing. Please tell me if this happens so that I can lighten my technique. If you experience delayed soreness the day after the massage, take a hot bath with Epsom salts and drink plenty of water.
What should I do after the massage?
Drink plenty of water after your massage (enough to make your urine clear). Most people who feel soreness the day after a massage either forgot or ignored my reminder to drink plenty of water in the 48 hours after the session. If you don’t drink enough water, you may feel worse the next day, like a cold was coming on or very fatigued. This just means that your body is still cleaning itself out.
Are there reasons why I should not get a massage?
There are some restrictions that include uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure, recent accidents, surgery or fractures, a current infection, a fever, a cold in the early stages, and any contagious disease. Also, clients taking blood thinners should ask their physicians if it is safe to get a massage. Some other medical conditions may require the approval from your doctor.
Describe the different types of massage that you perform or different techniques that you use.
I am a nationally certified massage therapist who specializes in clinical deep tissue, neuromuscular “trigger point” therapy, myofascial release techniques, sports massage, shiatsu, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), active-assisted stretching techniques, and pre- and perinatal massage. Detailed information about my massage techniques is available at lisaholdenmassage.com.
Do you offer a trial or initial consultation?
I am offering $20 off your first massage session at my home studio or your home.
What’s the best way for new clients to get started?
Please email me at lisaholdenmassage@gmail.com or call me at 512-567-6355 to schedule an appointment.
How do clients pay?
I accept cash, check and all major credit cards. If you need to cancel your appointment, please provide 24 hours notice.
Curious what others are saying about Lisa Holden Massage? Check out these great testimonials on her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-Holden-Massage/105418459490717
Lisa Holden Massage is now listed on MyFitList – check out their profile page: http://www.myfitlist.com/find/detail/lisa-holden-massage
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Find your Ideal Fitness Group in Austin
Jun 29th
MyFitList is excited to announce the launch of the much-anticipated “Advanced Fitness Search” feature on MyFitList.com! Now you can find workouts based on area of town, time of day, day of the week, and more! This changes everything for fitness-seekers in Austin and makes it easier than ever to find the perfect fitness solutions for you.
Looking for a running or cycling group with early morning workouts on Monday/Wednesday/Friday, near downtown? How about a yoga studio on your way home from work, where you can stop in for a class? Maybe a free bootcamp workout you can check out on Saturday mornings?
You can now find all of that , and more, on MyFitList!>>
The first step in reaching your fitness goals is figuring out how to make it happen consistently. Browse hundreds of fitness groups and workouts around Austin to find something that works with your schedule and keeps your body and mind engaged.
Meet your fitness match now at MyFitList.com and be sure to stay tuned for more updates that will further improve your search for all-things-fitness in Austin.
*Are you a fitness business with workouts around Austin? Make sure your business is listed by visiting here and creating a profile: http://www.myfitlist.com/businesses