Table massage is likely what most people are familiar with, even if they've never had a massage. In this situation, the client lies on a massage table, modestly covered by a sheet. The massage therapist uses lotion or oil to work out trigger points, tension, and tight muscles.

However, in a chair massage, the client is fully clothed and sitting in a specialized chair. The massage chair is designed for the client to rest forward slightly, with their arms and legs supported. A face cradle supports the client's head. The massage therapist works muscles and knots through the client's clothes, and so lotion or oil is not used. Though occasionally, the therapist may use some lotion on the neck or forearms/hands.