News: Thai Massage for Movers

I've often hear Thai massage likened to a yoga class, and while I loved my first taste (performed in Thailand, no less) exercise didn't necessary come to mind. Last week I went in for my second-ever Thai massage at Thai Privilege, an ornate day spa in Manhattan's Soho ready to make a comparison. I know what you're thinking: Yes, it really is hard work blogging about fitness.

So was this massage reminiscent of a yoga session? Well, some form of decadent, zero-calorie burning yoga, I suppose. You wear a loose fitting pajama-type outfit for the oil-free massage, mainly for modesty so the practitioner can bend and stretch you while deeply kneading your muscles. It sounds strange, I know, especially for traditional massage junkies. But I'm a convert. For me, this hits the spot better than any sports massage I've experienced, and I would recommend all athletes give it a try. Instead of simply walking out relaxed and loose, after a Thai massage you actually feel taller, more aligned and energized.
*Insider Tip: Book this massage (or one at tons of other spas) through LifeBooker for a discount on your next treatment.