Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

What is the term for gliding over the body in massage therapy?

1. Friction

2. Petrissage

3. Effleurage

4. Tapotement

The correct answer is: Effleurage

The term for gliding over the body in massage therapy is effleurage. This technique involves using long, sweeping strokes that can be performed with the palms, fingers, or forearms. Effleurage serves several purposes in a massage session: it helps to warm up the muscles, allows the therapist to assess the body's condition, and promotes relaxation and blood circulation. This technique is often used at the beginning and end of a massage to create a soothing and calming effect, establishing a connection between the therapist and the client. Because of its gentle nature, effleurage is an essential skill for massage therapists, contributing to a client's overall experience during the session. Other techniques like friction, petrissage, and tapotement have very specific motions and focus, but they do not encompass the broad, flowing movements characteristic of effleurage.