Which massage technique is described as a long, gliding stroke that begins and ends a session?

Which massage technique is described as a long, gliding stroke that begins and ends a session?

• A. Effleurage
• B. Petrissage
• C. Friction Massage
• D. Percussion

Answer: (A)

Effleurage is the long, gliding stroke used to begin and end a massage. It involves broad, smooth movements with the palms, fingers, or forearms, typically with oil, over large areas of the body. This technique warms the tissues, spreads lubrication, and helps assess tissue texture and tone while relaxing the client and preparing them for deeper work. At the end of the session, finishing with effleurage helps calm the nervous system and promotes venous and lymphatic return toward the heart. The other techniques—kneading, local friction, and rhythmic tapping—are not long, continuous glides used to start and finish a session; they target deeper tissue, adhesions, or stimulation, rather than the overall relaxation and preparation that effleurage provides.

Effleurage is the long, gliding stroke used to begin and end a massage. It involves broad, smooth movements with the palms, fingers, or forearms, typically with oil, over large areas of the body. This technique warms the tissues, spreads lubrication, and helps assess tissue texture and tone while relaxing the client and preparing them for deeper work. At the end of the session, finishing with effleurage helps calm the nervous system and promotes venous and lymphatic return toward the heart. The other techniques—kneading, local friction, and rhythmic tapping—are not long, continuous glides used to start and finish a session; they target deeper tissue, adhesions, or stimulation, rather than the overall relaxation and preparation that effleurage provides.