Saturday, November 22, 2008

Massage Chair Buying Cliffnotes

By James Knolan

Here are some essential things to keep in mind when searching for a massage chair. With so much technology available, there are many features to choose from. This can sometimes be distracting to the process of getting a massage. We share some general considerations about the chair buying process. We hope to help you find what is right for you and your budget.

Shipping Options: Shipping may or may not be included in the advertised price. Find out if they offer free shipping. Also check that it includes where you live. Sometimes Alaska and Hawaii are excluded. Do you need help setting up your massage chair? They weigh 100 to 250 lbs. You can usually get White Glove Delivery which usually includes a two person delivery and set up of the massage recliner. They usually include 2 flights of stairs in the price. You will have to sign for it when it arrives, so someone needs to be at home for delivery.

Evaluate all the Information: Weigh out the features, styling, warranty, etc for the massage chairs that you like. Also, who is going to use the massage chair? What are their weights and heights? What types of needs do they have and what features are the best to cover those who will use it? Did you get to actually try the massage chairs on your list? If you did not, then you may find a retailer carrying that massage chair in your area. If not, some internet resellers offer a 30 day trial period. However, most will refund your money less all shipping expenses. Check around and find out.

Try Some Massage Chairs: Many malls have stores that carry massage chairs. You should go and try them. You can also go to home shows which usually have massage chairs as well. You will want to sit in them and see how they feel for you. While you are trying them, check out their prices. Most store malls will carry slightly different models than what you find on the internet. Remember that a store has to cover more overhead than an internet site, so they will generally be more expensive at the mall.

Features of Massage Chairs: You will need to start to put a list together of important features for you. What features are important to you? Do you want a massage chair with just a back massage? Do you want lower body massage? Do you want heat? Do you want to have a music player? Do you want a manual recline or motorized recline? There are many important decisions to make. You will want to prioritize your list. Not all massage chairs will have the exact combination to match your list. At some point you may need to make some tradeoffs.

Manual or Power Assisted Recline: These days most massage chairs over $1,500 are power assisted in lowering the chair back and raising the footrest. Manual is with the use of a lever and a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder will raise the footrest or chair back. The user has to lower the footrest and push back to lower the chair back. Most entry level massage recliners have manual controls. The power assisted recline utilizes a motor for chair back and a motor for the footrest. These operate with a one-touch control and may be integrated into moving with different massage programs.

A massage recliner is an investment in your health and well-being. A massage chair might be a necessity if you have certain health conditions or it may be an outstanding luxury. Finding the perfect massage recliner for you can help to relieve aches, pains and tension. They can help improve your blood circulation and generally just make you feel good. After all, relaxation requires the body and mind to be at peace. - 16004

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