he Fitness Source Massage Therapy Program offers members and non-members the opportunity to benefit mentally and physically through the power of massage. Each massage therapist is professionally trained and well practiced in various massage techniques.

We offer several types of massage therapy, including:

Swedish - One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques, Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibration, percussive and tapping movements, with the application of oil, to reduce friction on the skin:

Deep tissue - Releases the chronic pattern of tension in the body through slow stroked and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the grain of muscles, tendons and fascia. It is called deep tissue, because it focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue.

Sports massage - Sports massage consists of specific components designed to reduce injuries, alleviate inflammation and provide warm-up, etc. for amateur and professional athletes before, during, after and within their training regimens.

Pre-natal / pregnancy - Performed by a trained prenatal specialist, these techniques can reduce pregnancy discomforts and concerns and enhance the physiological and emotional well-being of both mother and fetus. In the postpartum period, specialized techniques rebalance structure, physiology and emotions of the new mother, and may help her to bond with and care for her infant.

Myofascial - Myofascial release is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions and facilitate the emergence of emotional patterns and belief systems that are no longer relevant or are impeding progress. Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction.

Reflexology - Based on an ancient Chinese therapy, reflexology involves manipulation of specific reflex areas in the foot, hands and ears that correspond to other parts of the body. Sometimes referred to as zone therapy, this bodywork involves application of pressure to these reflex zones to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion. Similar to acupressure principles, reflexology works with the body's energy flow to stimulate self-healing and maintain balance in physical function.

Pricing*
Massage therapy packages for members
30 minutes ................................ $40
60 minutes ................................ $60
90 minutes ................................ $90

Massage therapy packages for non-members
30 minutes ................................ $45
60 minutes ................................ $70
90 minutes ................................ $100
* Prices are tentative as of October 2004

Payments are made to Fitness Source by cash, check or credit card. Gift certificates are available.

Scheduling
All massage appointments will be scheduled with the Fitness Source staff by calling (816) 513-1382. We will have a therapist "on call" and should be able to accommodate appointments within a one-hour notice based on room availability. Participants must arrive 15 minutes prior to scheduled appointment to complete the massage purchase and prepare for appointment.