The basis of every massage chair’s operation is the massage arms, which move along the spine to massage the user’s neck, back, and often the buttocks and thighs as well. For many people, however, an equally important function of massage chairs is leg massage. And that this article is about.
Massage chair and various leg massages
Before we get into the details, we invite you to watch a short video in which Paweł explains how thigh, calf, and foot massage work in massage chairs.
As you can see, a leg massage in a massage chair consists of many elements: airbags, massage rollers, acupressure bumps, etc. Depending on the model, this system may be more or less complex.
Leg massage with airbags
The simplest leg massage in a massage chair is based on the work of airbags that can cover the user’s thighs, calves, and feet. Through cyclical compression and decompression, the airbags stimulate muscle activity, improving blood and lymph circulation. The result of such a massage is a feeling of lightness and pleasant relaxation of the lower body.
You can read more about airbag massage in the article Airbag massage in a massage chair.
Calf and foot massage: rollers, discs, and bumps
When choosing a chair with leg massage, it is worth paying attention to the calf and foot massage systems. In the case of calves, the action of airbags can be supported by: acupressure bumps, massage rollers or discs located at the back of the calves, as well as by mechanical massage. The latter is performed by a movable footrest element that makes circular movements on the inner side of the calves. All these elements effectively relax the calf muscles and aid recovery after a long day.
In the case of feet, in addition to airbags that massage the foot from above and press it against the acupressure pad, the chair may also feature a system of rollers that massage the sole. The sensation experienced during a roller massage is similar to a massage performed with several fingers at the same time. They precisely massage tired feet, providing a feeling of complete comfort and relaxation.
Shiatsu foot massage in Fujiiryoki chairs
Foot massage in Fujiiryoki chairs is significantly different from other types of massage. Japanese massage chairs use specially contoured rollers that massage the feet using the Shiatsu technique. It is a deeply relaxing massage, reminiscent of the movement of a masseur’s thumbs. The ankles and insteps are stabilised by airbags, and the specially programmed movement of the rollers presses on reflexology points, inducing relaxation throughout the entire body.
Foot massagers and useful additional features
Staying on the subject of foot massage, it is also worth knowing that massage chairs available on the market can be divided into:
- Massage chairs without a foot massager – an excellent choice for public spaces such as waiting rooms, airports, or company relaxation rooms. The lack of a foot massager allows you to enjoy a massage without having to take off your shoes.
- Massage chairs with a closed foot massager – these models give the user a feeling of being enveloped during the massage, and in combination with the heating that is often found in them, they perfectly relax the feet.
- Massage chairs with an open foot massager – ideal for those who do not want to give up massaging this part of the body, but feel uncomfortable in models with a closed massager due to the large size of their feet.
Additional features that you may find in foot massage chairs include automatic extension and adjustment of the footrest to the length of your legs, the ability to adjust the position of the calf massager, and even adjusting the spacing of the rollers to the size of the user’s feet. These extras translate into increased comfort when using the massage chair and ensure a more personalised massage experience.
The power of independent leg massagers
For some time, massage chairs with independent leg massagers have also been available on the market. This innovative feature, introduced by Bodyfriend (first in the Phantom Rovo model), allows you to stretch and relax various muscle groups, including deep muscles. The separate movement of the left and right legs of the massage chair – inspired by cycling – allows for an unprecedented range of motion and sensational asymmetrical stretching.
You can find detailed information about independent leg massagers in the article Specialised Rovo Mode in Bodyfriend Phantom Rovo massage chair.
Heating of calves and feet in massage chairs
Heating in a massage chair, considered by many to be one of the most pleasant features, is a perfect complement to a leg massage. Applied to the calves and feet, it penetrates deep into the tissues, warming the muscles and perfectly preparing them for massage. The heat spreading throughout the body relieves muscle pain, supports the treatment of injuries, and has a positive effect on proper circulation.
Rotating leg massager
An interesting feature that some massage chairs boast is a rotating leg massager. It allows you to use the chair in two ways. When the massager is retracted, it can be used as a comfortable leg rest. However, whenever you want or need it, you can rotate it and use it to massage your calves, providing your limbs with pleasant relief and relaxation.
This feature, available in the Massaggio Bello 2, is particularly useful for people struggling with conditions such as varicose veins in the legs, which are a contraindication for massage.
As you can see, massage chairs with a leg massage function differ in terms of their range of functions, intensity of sensations and comfort of use. The choice depends on your preferences, needs, and the space you have available. If you need assistance in choosing the optimal model, please contact us – we will be happy to help you find a massage chair that will provide you with everyday comfort and well-deserved relaxation.
Transcript
Paul, can you explain how leg massage works?
Sure, leg massage is an important feature which can deeply affect the feeling in the whole body. I need to go back to my explanation about basic models, where you get a simple air massage for the thighs and calves. You need to look at a more advanced model if you want the option for the feet.
How does it massage the feet?
In premium massage chairs, it is mainly done by airbags and rollers working together. However, to be clearer, with inferior models there is an acupressure insole instead of a roller. In some models the foot part has airbags which work on the toes, heels and Achilles tendon. Rollers for the feet are one of the most famous and extremely relaxing features in massage chairs.
Is there only one type of roller?
There are several types of roller mechanisms. Depending on the model, it can have two or more rollers, they can be individual shapes and move on different axles. It is difficult to advise if one is better than the other, because each of them differ a bit and they all give a pleasant massage.
Can we expect something more for the calves?
In advanced models, the airbag massage has an extra special kneading function for the calves. It is quite strong and very effective.
Is it possible to regulate the strength?
Yes, you can regulate the pressure of the airbag. It is crucial for individuals who have very stiff legs to build the strength up very slowly with every massage session. With the rollers, we can choose a speed and people who are ticklish, need to get used to this. :)
Any other things I should know?
Yes, as an extra function in some models, there is heating for the feet or calves. It complements the massage and makes it more pleasurable. The last thing to mention is the extension slide for the feet. Sometimes it is automatic, sometimes manual, but the range of this slide is important, as it is more comfortable for taller people.
