"Malisa is the least pretentious yoga instructor I've ever had! I feel so happy to attend her class. Not only is her physical instruction top notch, her instruction on the inner aspects of the practice is relatable and stays with me even when I am not in a class."
Trish Benford

"Thanks for all of your help! Everyone at Castle Hill has been wonderful so far and I'm very happy that I made the switch from Pure! You all make me feel very welcome and not like just part of the crowd."
Jill Welch

"This gym is not merely a place to workout like a gerbil in wheel. Castle Hill encourages you to make health and fitness a lifestyle."
Amy S

"I think you could successfully promote your environmentally conscious gym in advertising. It is so attractive to many Austinites to find a business with that commitment and very unique as well. Thanks for creating such a great space to work out in."
Laura Balla

"I love the gym, how it appeals to young and old and how clean it always feels.  I asked you a few weeks ago to fix the total body gym and was gratified about how quickly you responded."
Jan Dailey

"Your gym is the best! And I am proud of your commitments to your love for health, life and the environment."
Katherine Butler

"I am one of the first clients of Castle Hill and it is truly my home away from home as well.  I can honestly say that I am in better shape and health since faithfully going to this gym.  This well-being makes me a better person toward everyone."
Janet Sullivan

"Fitness is indeed more than lifting weights for body strength - Castle Hill demonstrates this!"
Rich Armington

"As I often tell my children "you have to be different to make a difference"! Castle Hill is different."
Julie Horvath

"I love the little community you've created at Castle Hill... thanks for all your work!"
Lesley Ramsey

"Castle Hill Fitness is an exceptional place.  Thanks for providing such a first class facility and group of people."
Randy Rice

"I don't know that I have ever been associated with a better managed facility. Your very happy client,"
John Mobley

"Thanks for caring about the environment.  I have been very happy at the Castle."
Penny Hobbs

"I'm happy and proud to be part of such an awesome community.  Castle Hill rules!"
Selena Pang

"I'm very proud of you and proud to be a member of Castle Hill!"
Toni Thomasson

"I love your Planet Castle Hill. It has made a huge impact on the health and well-being of both my daughter and me. Keep up the amazing work and spirit!"
Barbara Laing

"I love Castle Hill and the people in it - thanks for all that you do for us!"
Amy Roberts

"I had no idea that the most favorite gym that I've ever used in my life, the one that finally turned around my contempt of exercise by actually making it fun and unintimidating, also was run with the same concern and thoughtfulness for the future of the planet and its inhabitants that I feel.  "
Heather Page

"Castle Hill has totally changed my lifestyle. The teachers are unparalleled. Now I exercise every day and I feel completely different. I hate to miss a day!"
Janis Hydak

"Castle Hill is different from other gyms because of the cool laid back atmosphere and it's not a meat market. What keep me coming back are the instructors. Great gym: clean, cool and just my style."
Melody Thames

"Castle Hill is the most welcoming gym I have ever been a member of. People who work there and who attend are warm and friendly, and focused on fitness and health."
Jenn Lindberg

"Everyone treats me with respect and near admiration for showing up consistently. I have made quite a few new friends."
Steve Jung

"I have had more personal attention from your staff in one month than I did in a year and a half at my old gym."
Joe Wojtowicz

"I must tell you that I have belonged to many gyms and I am in love with working out at Castle Hill… I am 6 pounds lighter today… I feel so much better."
Aimee Deputy

"All three instructors I have taken yoga with have been much better than average: articulate, knowledgeable and attentive to their pupils."
Byron Thomas

"I am truly inspired by your staff and the commitment they have to your patrons and members"
Angie Houtz

"Know that I recognize and deeply value the loving contribution of artistic form + imaginative function = Castle Hill Fitness"
Dianne Graham

"It is almost a family environment, very personal. This is the first time I really stick to a program simply because I truly enjoy the hour I spend at Castle Hill every day."
Peter Burner

"The Castle never lets me down!!! This month is my 3 year anniversary!! I could not ask for a better gym or a more delightful group of dedicated athletes to staff it."
Anna Krachey

Massage

• Q&A
• therapists
• pricing

"Best last-minute massage" Austin Chronicle 2003

Frequently asked questions Why Get a Massage at a Gym? What are the benefits of a massage? Who benefits from bodywork? How often should I get a massage? What type of bodywork/massage does Castle Hill offer? How does Myofascial release feel and what are the techniques? Who are the therapists? I've never had a massage. Is there anything I need to know?

Why Get a Massage at a Gym?

Our therapists are experienced professionals who exceed the state standards of training and continuing education. We focus on helping you attain lasting results. We specialize in advanced techniques and provide outstanding bodywork in a cozy, relaxing space. See our Bios and testimonies.

It is convenient to follow your workout with a massage. Our therapists collaborate with you, your trainers, physical therapists, and instructors to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

What are the Benefits of Massage?

• Stimulates circulation providing nutrients & oxygen essential for healing
• Stimulates lymphatic system which enhances immune response
• Reduces cortisone & norepinephrine levels (stress hormones) to decrease anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Increases serotonin levels, important for maintaining a healthy mood and for improved sleep.
• Improves joint and muscle function & flexibility
• Facilitates recovery of injuries & chronic pain
• Enhances athletic recovery & performance
• Increases energy levels and body awareness
• Improves posture
• Prevents new injuries

Who benefits from bodywork?

Clients with the following conditions and or symptoms will benefit from massage:
Muscle strain/spasms Back pain Whiplash Fibromyalgia Depression Scar Tissue Numbness Migraines and Headaches Rotator Cuff injury Carpal Tunnel Syndrome High Blood Pressure	TMJ Dysfunction Chronic Pain General Stress/Anxiety Insomnia Sciatica Scoliosis Tendonitis Multiple Sclerosis Plantar Fascitis Ilio-tibial Band syndrome Everyone benefits from massage

How often should I get a massage?

• Optimally, at least one hour is required to address the full body. An hour and a half is ideal if you have a chronic or acute injury. However, 30 minutes is better than no massage at all and specific areas can be addressed.
• For recovery, schedule one to two days after a hard workout or event.
• For injury, consider at least 2-3 sessions no more than a week apart, depending on severity and acuity.
• For prevention & maintenance, at least once per 6 weeks.
• For vitality and optimal well-being, once per week.
• You can never have too many massages but generally, you can determine with your therapist the appropriate interval for your individual needs and pocketbook.

What type of bodywork/massage does Castle Hill offer?

A traditional full-body massage using long strokes, kneading, and vibration to increase circulation and general relaxation.

Sports

A combination of stretching, range of motion and deep tissue work to facilitate faster recovery from workouts as well as injury prevention-an essential addition to athletic training on all levels.

This therapeutic combination uses a substantial amount of pressure and little or no lotion to releases tense muscles by acting on the fascia, or connective tissue. When an individual experiences physical/emotional trauma, scarring, repetitive movements, postural distortions, and stress, the intricate fascial webbing becomes thick, fibrous and restricted, causing excessive joint compression, nerve compression, decreased range of motion, decreased muscle efficiency and chronic pain. Releasing these restrictions produces long lasting results.

This effective and specific technique isolates "trigger points" and taut fibers in muscles that can refer pain to other places in the body. It is extremely effective for many conditions such as chronic headaches, migraines, jaw pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other "unexplainable pains".

Chair Massage

Schedule a 15 minute or 30 minute tune-up after your workout or anytime to release tension in the back and relax the neck and shoulders. Recipients are fully clothed and will feel revitalized. It is a fast and cost-effective way to decrease stress and achieve overall better health.

Our therapist will travel to your work or home within a 10 mile radius to provide any of our services except Stone Massage.

A simple program that combines several bodywork disciplines to empower you with an individualized therapeutic self-care tool. Using small balls and other props, you will elongate and loosen tight muscles, break down adhesions ("knots"), improve circulation, flexibility, posture and balance. The specific routines will increase your body's awareness and performance in sports and/or daily activities. It is tailored to relieve your specific injuries and decrease chronic pain. Rolling up the spine releases tension along the parasympathetic nervous system, aiding relaxation.

How does Myofascial release feel and what are the techniques?

If you have long standing or significant restrictions, it can feel quite sensitive or uncomfortable initially, and then immediately feels better afterward. For some, it feels like a pinching sensation or like a needed very deep stretch. Myofascial release is different from Swedish in that little or no lubricant is used.

Traction Holding the tissue for 90 seconds or more allows a mechanical and biomechanical reaction to begin. Skin Rolling Unglues the superficial fascia (connective tissue), loosening the skin from muscle tissue and releases adhesions. Twisting Applied to the arms or legs, this technique can be likened to an Indian burn. The purpose is to unglue fascia at a deeper level, in the muscles & muscle compartments, allowing for vital blood flow of nutrients and oxygen. Pinning/Scraping A more intense technique that pins adhesions ("knots") at the joint or insertion and then the joint is articulated to soften the tissue, release adhesions, and bring relief.

I've never had a massage. Is there anything I need to know?