- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Body Mechanics
Category: Beauty and Spas Massage Massage [Edit]
387 Cambridge St(between Franklin St & Harvard Ave)
Allston, MA 02134
Neighborhood: Allston/Brighton
(617) 782-3311
- Nearest Transit:
-
Cambridge St @ Harvard Ave (501, 64, 66, 9701, 9702, 9703)
Cambridge St @ Franklin St (501, 503, 64, 66)
Cambridge St @ Linden St (501, 64, 66, 9701, 9702, 9703)
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
BeeKind Holistic Therapy
Get 25% off your purchase at BeeKind Holistic Therapy
58 reviews for Body Mechanics
58 reviews in English
-
Review from M.Ann D.
Brookline, MA
12/22/2011
I usually arrive at Body Mechanics in pain - stabbing, shooting pain. I spend most of my days (and, more often than not, my nights) hunched over a desk. The result is terrible tension - like zappy electric eels are running up and down my spine. Body Mechanics keeps the eels at bay and does so for significantly less than its competitors.
I've also made appointments for more romantic reasons - a few couples massages and some shared hot tub soaks. Both are great. And, at least in our case, hot tub followed by Chinese takeout is much cheaper than dinner and a movie but infinitely more enjoyable. Best of all, you get to start the evening off naked ...
My favorite part about this place is the ambiance. Call me crazy, but some of the more fancy-pants 'spas' I've been in are a bit too much for me - I can't relax if I'm constantly worried I'm going to break something. Body Mechanics has an elemental feel - plants, neutral colors, cozy robes. More 'om' than 'ohmigod' ...
P.S. Make your appointment with Alicia. She's amazing! -
Review from chanelle d.
Boston, MA
1/5/2012
I went to Body Mechanics for the couple's massage, which has great reviews already. I don't have much to say on the "couple's" part because it was my first one, so my review is in comparison to other massages I've had.
I have been to Bella Sante, Elizabeth Grady, and Violet for massages in the past. The difference I notice the most between those places and Body Mechanics is that they aim for a spa-like atmosphere, while Body Mechanics gives more of a homelike and cozy vibe. This isn't a bad thing, just don't expect a 5-star hotel atmosphere because Body Mechanics is more bed and breakfast.
The staff was very friendly, they were polite and energetic, yet calming. The massage room felt like someone's bedroom, which again, is okay. But it felt a bit strange wearing the plaid robes they provided because then it really felt like I was at someone's house--and borrowing their clothes. The towels, as well, are different colors like at someone's home. I don't doubt that everything was clean and sanitary, but I think it would help the place feel more professional if they had bleached white towels and robes. The hot tub time is a unique plus, very relaxing. However, not all of the jets in the hot tub had equal power, some were much weaker than others so we traded off. 30 minutes in the hot tub is plenty, and there is a shower in the room to rinse off before and after.
I'm not someone who goes to massages often, and I don't have any achy problem areas on my body I need work on. I only go to relax and feel pampered. That being said, the actual massage was just okay. Although the masseuses were super nice and accommodating, I have had better massages. Their style seemed to be to apply pressure to specific points rather than be constantly moving around. I can see how this might work for some people, but I prefer more kneading and moving around to different spots.
Overall, it was a good experience. We left relaxed and satisfied. I might be a sucker for ambiance, but I'd pay extra for a more spa-like atmosphere at Bella Sante or Elizabeth Grady (see my review on Violet for what I really think about them). -
Review from N H.
ALLSTON, MA
11/21/2011
Came here because I've been having problems with my back for years from mild scoliosis. I explained my condition to the masseuse and she seems to understand where I needed the pain and tension relieved.
The massage room was very tranquil, clean, and comfortable. But half an hour into my session, I noticed that she didn't massage anywhere near the spots where I had pain and tension. I reminded her again about my problems and she said she understood. But she didn't do anything different for the rest of the session. So I thought, maybe this is a different technique that an educated massage therapist would know and I wouldn't. So I paid my $75 (plus $20) tip, thinking I would feel better. There was no (not even slightly) improvement in my pain and tension.
Will not come back there for any therapeutic massage. Maybe I'll try their couple relaxing massage. But I need to find a different massage therapist who has more knowledge with muscle anatomy. -
Review from Irina M.
Newton, MA
1/25/2012
I've had a few massages from this place, and different experiences with each one. None were bad, but some were less than wonderful. I don't remember the names of those masseurs who were less than perfect, but they are the reason I'm not giving this place 5 stars.
First of all, it's reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is nice. everything is very clean and shiny. My only complaint is that sometimes you can hear the people at the front desk conversing loudly, but this is fairly rare.
No then, to the good stuff: Alex is a genius. She is a very nice, slight, woman, with the strength of an acrobat. I have finally figured out how to explain what I needed and she understood perfectly and asked for feedback. She never took offense, as some people do, to suggestions about pressure and location, but she also knew how to fix the knots in ways I would not have considered. When I asked for more pressure, she increased it by precisely the right increments and knew how to release it in time for the pain to feel good without being unbearable. In short, she knows how bodies work, how to make them work properly, and how to listen to both the client's input and the client's body, and she combines this knowledge with a casual friendliness that is neither overly familiar nor overly formal.
I would give her 7 stars if I could and I miss her dearly now that I'm out of town.
Yay Alex. For reals. -
Review from Melanie F.
Boston, MA
11/14/2011
This place shouldn't even get 1 Star. That is too high of a rating for the horrible man that owns this place.
Upon calling to ask for an appointment -- I had never been there before and I was confused about their particular procedure, the owner began to yell at me and tell me I was a "shitty new client". I was taken aback and asked him if he treated all new clients this way. He responded "eff new clients". And then hung up on me.
NEVER in my life would I ever go there again -- or recommend someone who wanted a massage. There are so many other better places to go with much nicer and more accommodating staff. -
Review from jenn h.
Boston, MA
12/21/2011
Jessica is amazing
not to chatty, very relaxing and feel 100% better after seeing here
definitly someone who cares about her clients needs and give a great massge! -
Review from Srinivas N.
Boston, MA
8/18/2011
Great place for a couples massage! I was looking for a place where me and my wife could go for a couples massage on our anniversary.. Yelp recommended this place and we weren't dissapointed!
We were lucky to find parking right next to their place.. You get in the mood as soon as you enter the premises.
I was wondering how it would be to combine a hot tub followed by a massage.. but I think it is a killer combination! The 30 minutes in the hot tub with the jets calms you down and you are already very relaxed.. and then follow that with the massage.. you are in heaven!!
I got a nice deep massage and can say that it was one of the best massages I have got. This was my wife's first massage so she had nothing to compare it too.. but I know she loved it as the massage relaxed her so much that she fell asleep for 5-10 minutes during the massage :)
We highly recommend this place -
Review from N p.
Brooklyn, NY
1/22/2012
i have chronic pain issues due to an operation, working hunched over a computer 60+ hours a day; i come her 1x a week for a 30 minute hot tub soak and an hour massage by kim; good strong massage; very clean place; low key; 2 thumbs up!
-
Review from L B.
Burbank, CA
9/2/2011
Oh I am so sad to give this place one star! I was really hoping my experience with this place would end with the five star rating I was already imagining in my head and saw from so many other Yelpers!
Let me begin by saying that this one star is only for how we were handled by the business and not the actual massage...as we never actually MADE it to the massage and I will explain why....
One of the "must-do" items on my husband and I's "to-do list" for our Boston vacation was to get our very first couple's massage. I was SO excited to find this place which had the hot tub, couple's massage AND great reviews on Yelp. To me that is a triple-threat since in Yelp I thee trust!
I called Body Mechanics and made an appointment for Sunday, Aug 28th as we were supposed to leave Boston at 6am on the 29th. However, a kind lady named Irene decided to become a hurricane and change our plans.
The lady who I believe is part-owner of Body Mechanics called us a couple times about our appointment as the storm approached. We changed our appointment time from evening to morning on her recommendation since she thought it would be better for us to come in before conditions were worse. She then called us later that evening and told us that the entire transportation system (we used the "T" all week to get around) was being shut down and we might want to reconsider. With that new information, we decided to cancel and after finding out our Monday flight had been cancelled we figured we could reschedule for later that week. And we did...for Tues at 6pm.
Tues at 6pm came and being out-of-towners, we got confused on the location and ended up at the wrong address. We called, told them what happened and said we were jumping on the "T" and would be there asap. The receptionist told us that we would not be able to do the hot tub soak and only the massage and we were kind of bummed about that because we wanted the whole experience. We called back after hanging up because we wanted to see if we could come in the next day and get both the hot tub and massage.
This is where it gets frustrating.....
The lady answers and I say that we really wanted to do both the hot tub and massage and is there any way we could still do both? She starts talking to me in a frustrated tone and tells me it is not possible. So, I start asking if there is anything available for the next day. I can tell the guy who owns the place is listening to her and jumping in on the convo in the background. Then she says "hold on" mid-sentence and I can hear the guy taking the phone from her. He gets on and says in an annoyed tone "Come on, you're telling me that you can't get here this evening and do this?". I replied that we were trying to rush there and we were really hoping to do the hot tob and massage and were trying to figure out if it was possible and if not, if there was any availability tomorrow. He then says "We can do both but you have to do the hot tub AFTER the massage not before". This seemed counter-productive to us because it seems like you would do the hot tub to relax first and there is a REASON they do it that way. He told me it doesn't matter. Umm, okay.
So then I asked about the next day and he gets MORE annoyed and tells me that this is the SECOND time we are trying to reschedule with them and that they don't trust us that we will keep our appointment for the next day. I then have to remind him that we rescheduled because of a HURRICANE and the fact that the ENTIRE public transportaion system was shut down that day...and also at THEIR recommendation. I thought that was incredibly rude and it definitely put me on the defensive. I point that out and he tells me that he "knows we aren't bad people but that other people will call tomorrow and say things like (and this part was said in a mocking tone) 'I need to change my appointment for this reason or I can't make it for that reason' and it is just not an easy situation". According to him...it seems the citizens of Boston talk in very annoying tones of voice.
Anyway, I honestly was JUST trying to figure out a solution and he was not interested in doing the same. I did take responsibility to him for us messing up the address that time but I really didn't think we or the situation were handled in a way that made us feel like our business was important to them. We ended up saying we would rush and make it there to just do the massage first and hot tub second.
I hung up...then thought..."This is ridiculous". As we boarded the train, my husband and I looked at each other and agreed that there was NO WAY we could relax for a massage after that exchange. You go to a spa to relax and we were simply angry at that way we were treated. We called back to tell them we wanted to cancel and the girl said, "Umm. That's nice." Decision justified. We were going to tell her why but she pretty much made our point. So we just hung up.
So, we went to Exhale Spa. Awesome. Separate review is up! -
Review from Nik A.
Boston, MA
10/14/2011
Went here with my best friend for birthday massages. We both had great experiences, the staff was extremely friendly the hot tub was great and the massage was am-a-zing!
-
Review from Zach B.
ALLSTON, MA
9/23/2011
So relaxing my whole body feels great! Hot tub time machine. Also awesome couples' style massage - definitely will be over there again in the future.
-
Review from Dana M.
Brighton, MA
1/9/2011
Came here after being recommended by a friend who goes regularly who recommended Kim. I was originally going to buy my girl a massage for Xmas but after reading all the great Yelp reviews about the couples massage, I decided to do that instead.
I'm really glad I did. I had never had a massage before this and it met and exceeded all my expectations. The hot tub was awesome, clean and inviting. The massage was great, I had Kim and she was excellent. Not sure who my girl had but after the massage she stated it was the best she ever had and she would be back. She's had her fair share of massages so this said alot.
If you are looking for a great way to have an awesome bonding experience with your guy or girl this is it. You will both leave relaxed and excited that you did it. I recommend going early so you can reap the relaxing benefits for the rest of the day. 5 Stars! -
Review from Brita F.
Wakefield, MA
2/1/2011
Is there a goddess of massage? If so, she has rained many blessings unto Body Mechanics.
Despite it's punny name (I walked by this place several times assuming it has something to do with cars), this place offers incredible services sans gimmicks. It's unassuming location helps to enable economically-friendly rates, and the masseurs are top-notch. Their hot tub/massage combo for $70 simply cannot be beat. If you're like me and need a hard, deep massage, Craig is your man.
Go here. You will not be disappointed. -
Review from CrAig O.
Westwood, MA
9/7/2011
What a great surprise in allston! Highly recommend jessica for deep tissue massage.
-
Review from Brianca C.
Los Angeles, CA
12/15/2010
I get a LOT of massages, and have all over the country. My frist experience there was not as great. I got a massage from Alex and she just didnt GIVE an actual massage. BUT, I returned because I loved the concept of hot tubs and massage.
Its amazing how much better a massage can be when you have had heat applied to it before hand. The whole process was so relaxing and is a nice treat for yourself.
Jessica is the BEST! I only go to her and she knows what she is doing and can accommodate to your mood. We had great girl talk one time and them silence in another. It just depends. Its a very holistic feeling when you go in there. And when I leave I feel taller, and all I want to do is go to bed. I would recommend going in in the evening so that you can just go to bed after.
While its not the cheapest massage that I have received, I feel as though the entire experience is great for $80; which includes about 20 min hot tub, and then an hour massage.
I cant wait to go there during the winter and just BE..... ahhhhh is all i can say! -
Review from Jonathan Y.
Stoneham, MA
11/9/2011
Great place for a massage. I liked the hot tub atmosphere and the massage was fantastic afterwards. would highly recommend this place. Clean and on the up and up.
-
Review from Simona S.
Manhattan, NY
9/13/2008 ROTD 1/3/2009
There is no way I can go without giving this place 5 stars because I think even Jesus above was wincing at the effort put into getting out those knots. It was a rough couple of weeks before I went. I was really getting into waitressing and working at Francesca's takes a lot of lifting power too... and in general my body tenses up like it's going defense mode at signs of stress.
Needless to say, I was hurting. Bad.
So as with essentially everything else, Yelp brought me here. It took me a while to get here, thanks to traffic on both the 39 and 66 buses, but I was able to call the place and not have them freak out at my being late. The guy on the phone was so nice and said that for reasons like that, they've established time cushions. Thank you, thank you for the cushion.
I didn't find Stephanie to be the most pleasant which caught me a bit offguard, but maybe she was peeved that I was late... I'm not sure.
Anyway, shoes off at the door, clothes off in the room, and get ready for some pain. But the good kind. There was a bit of butt touching but I was okay with it because underneath the fat there are allegedly muscles that need working out too. She got to those.
I kind of wish there was a hand massage involved but I made it pretty obvious my neck and shoulders were what were driving me mad. She got those kinks OUT. And really used her elbow on my back. I felt the knots slowly coming apart and life felt better. Definitely.
At one point she said, you doing okay? And I said, "yea, I just have a lot of knots." And all she could say was, "yea............."
Not a good sign.
I walked out of there $85 lighter but a WHOLE lot better.
PS - $70 for an hour massage AND you can leave tip on the card. Sweet. -
Review from Jessi E.
Brookline, MA
8/24/2007
Admittedly, I was a little worried about a hot tub/massage joint surrounded by auto stores and tattoo parlors on busy Cambridge Street, who wouldn't? However, I was pleasantly surprised - the place was very nice and clean with tasteful, serene decor.
My boyfriend and I had a relaxing "Treatment for Two" for just under $160 total. The pre-massage "warm up," consisted of a private hot tub to relax and unwind in for 30 minutes (bathing suits, conveniently optional). The private room was equipped with an audio system - I'm assuming you could bring your own music, towels and bath robes, even an ice-cold Brita and cups. Next time I might ask if we could bring our own wine. :-) We both received hour-long deep tissue massages, unfortunately they were in different rooms, but maybe I've misunderstood the concept of a "couples massage." As a classical musician, I could have done without the "relaxation music" consisting of synthesized strings dubbed over ocean sounds and sustained Gregorian chant echoes, but hey, I understand it's all part of the "experience."
The massage itself was great - I'm definitely sore today, which is good since I didn't want just a feel-good massage but some knot ass-kicking! I'm sure there are much more luxurious spa facilities out there, but this was by far the best deal for your money (most Newbury Street spas were the same price for only a couples 30 min. massage). I'll definitely be back ... -
Review from Christine R.
Roxbury, MA
Updated - 5/29/2010
I have been going to Body Mechanics for years (at least 8) and have had great massages there, but today was the icing on the cake! Kim worked out the tension spot in my back. The techniques she used were new to me not only at this location but also from previous massage places! I felt so great afterwards!
They are very professional, compassionate and prompt. Oh and did I say affordable? I look forward to my annual birthday discount! Keep up the great work.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
6/17/2008
I have been going to Body Mechanics for years! Stephanie and Craig are both great technicians! I… Read more »
-
-
Review from Allison T.
Allston, MA
Updated - 7/14/2008
I almost don't want to update because I want Body Mechanics to remain mine all mine!!! but, I can't, in good conscience keep this to myself.
To update quickly and concisely: Stephanie is the best. I've had her twice - she's patient, attentive, not too rough, and gives you fair warning about where/why you might be sore (if that's the case - not every person who goes to Body Mechanics is a giant taught knot like me).
She's awesome. Check her out soon. Oh - and if you like a good, deep, massage, Joe is the dude for you.Listed in: Allston Rock City
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
5/4/2008
::Siiiiiigh::
Here's a fun fact - unbeknownst to many many folks, I'm actually a pretty tense person.… Read more »
-
-
Review from Lauren B.
Boston, MA
10/15/2007
I made an appointment with Stephanie because I had intolerable tension and stiffness in my neck and shoulders. I went in knowing that the massage probably wouldn't be very relaxing but Stephanie talked me through it as she pressed (very!) firmly into my back.
Right away I felt a little more relaxed and less stressed. Stephanie warned me that I might be sore the next day and she was right-- I felt like I had lifted weights for an hour. But by that afternoon, the soreness went away.
It wasn't until a week later that I really felt the results. The soreness in my neck and shoulders has eased considerably and my back is more flexible. Stephanie also instructed me to be conscious of my posture and to stretch my shoulder muscles so now when no one is looking, I do yoga stretches at work. I would definitely go back. -
Review from Alyssa J P.
Brighton, MA
2/27/2010
I was definitely overdue for a massage, and this place was wonderful. I got the couples deal with my boyfriend, 160$ for 30 minutes in a hot tub followed by a 60 minute couples massage. Talk about relaxing!
Not quite sure what to expect, Jeff and I came prepared with bathing suits and spare clothes, but everything is set up so that you can do the entire thing butt naked, and that is awesome. You get robes to go into the hut tub room, where you are left to luxuriate in a clean, big, bubbly bath of hot water. I only wish I had seen the stereo before getting in, I would have put on some of that awesome waterfall relaxation music like they have at those Brookstone audio kiosks.
Then over to the massage room, where I wasn't sure again about whether or not to clothe myself. I went for a sports bra and shorts, but next time I will just go in my birthday suit. You get yourself settled under the sheet, and never does the masseuse take the sheet off of the delicate parts. It stays totally G rated. Afterward you get as much time as you want to pry yourself off of the massage table and reluctantly dress and go back into the outside world.
As for the massage itself, wonderful! I wanted her to focus on my legs, lower back and neck/shoulders, and that's what I got. I think she spent like 20 minutes working on my calves and thighs, and boy do I need it as a runner. The pressure was definitely close to unbearable at times, but that's how I like it so it was fine with me. She asked if the pressure was okay, and I would have felt comfortable asking for her to tone it down if I had wanted her to. Jeff had a similarly good experience on the bed next to mine.
It was quiet and relaxed, and I do like the cheesy synth-strings with Gregorian chant nonsense. (I'm a sucker for cheesy music.) I will definitely be coming back here in the future! -
Review from Hillary W.
Belmont, MA
9/19/2007
Love this place. It is like a second home. I have been seeing Craig and Stephanie for year and my boyfriend and I started going for the couples hot tub and massage combo almost two years ago every month. So worth it and a reasonable treat for your health. You aren't paying for location or image. This is truly a therapeutic, relaxing experience good for your muscles, mind and everything.
I can't encourage you enough to go. -
Review from Lauren v.
3/3/2010
After discovering that our regular "soak in a hot tub" place was booked from now until armageddon, the boyfriend opted to surprise me with a trip to Body Mechanics.
The exterior is almost suspect, wedged as it is in between nondescript businesses in Allston facing a tattoo parlor. Stepping inside (to a legitimate-looking business) should immediately put you at ease. Craig, suggested we remove shoes and coats and, despite being 15 minutes early, led us into the hot tub room.
It was huge. And immaculate. Chairs for relaxing (or keeping your stuff dry), a shower, a stereo system with relaxing CDs and, of course, the hot tub. Like the room, the hot tub was large and could easily fit 4 or 5 people if BF and I didn't get Jet ADD and subsequently spend the hour playing musical chairs. After pointing out how various things worked and shooing away any concept of time ("stay as long as you want!"), Craig left the room and we were free to soak.
After the soak, I used the available hair dryer and marveled at the clean floor, nary a dust ball or speck of mud in sight.
I will say controlling your own music and having room to move around is huge. I also like the lack of pressure as far as time goes, when applicable.
Tips:
Bring your own music if you don't want standard "relaxation" CDs.
If you are going out after, shampoo is recommended if your hair easily turns to straw at the slightest hint of chlorine. -
Review from danielle L.
Marlborough, MA
4/17/2008
I booked a Treatment for 2 after reviewing prices for myself and my boyfriend to get away for a day and have massages. The price was terrific and so was the service.
30 mins in a hot tub which was a nice relaxing first part of this treatment. We both just relaxed and sipped cold water until our time was up.
Then on to different rooms for deep tissues massages. I have had massages before and new what to expect my boyfriend was a massage virgin so I was glad he enjoyed this. The ladies took great care of us and I would definitely go back to have another massage or even just to use the hot tub which you can book with a group of friends. -
Review from Heather S.
Portland, OR
Updated - 4/8/2009
Subsequent to my previous review, I tried Body Mechanics again (3 times now), and have had really good experiences there. For one, the rooms are warmer, second, someone now answers the phone (you don't just get a recording as before), and third, all customer service has been fabulous. I've felt comfortable, relaxed, and happy every time after leaving Body Mechanics.
The massage I recently got was one of the best I've ever had; (it was a mixture of shiatsu and Swedish and she checked in with me, gently about the pressure, which was perfect).
Try the massage and hot tub for 2 -- 1/2 hour of hot tubbing (very clean tub) then 1 hour each of massages for $185. It's a grand deal!Listed in: Body, Mind, & Soul Soothers
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
2/4/2008
Though this is not the place for me, it may be right for you... for simplicity, I've described my… Read more »
-
-
Review from Allison H.
San Francisco, CA
7/17/2009
Got the couples deal - 30 mins of hot tub + 60 min massage for $185. Gotta throw in the disclaimer that the boy is the real massage connoisseur, so my interpretation of a good massage/good massage place may not be up to snuff.
In fact, this was my first professional massage - and they did a great job of making me feel comfortable and at ease. The hot tub was relaxing, like a little oasis in a backyard-less metropolis. The massage was gentle (perhaps a bit too gentle?), but indeed stress-relieving.
So my conclusion?: Thumbs up if you're a massage-lovin' kid. But as long as I can get 'em for free and on-demand from my better half, I can spend that $$ on more shoes :) -
Review from marie c.
Somerville, MA
6/5/2007
**Edit**
I wanted to update this because I was contacted by Amanda a few months ago and ended up scheduling a few more massages with her. Mad props to her for contacting a customer and taking the time to explain some things!
So, further thoughts:
1. Definitely do the hot tub thing. You will feel SO good, even if you initially feel kind of strange sitting in a hot tub in a room all by yourself.
2. Amanda was really great, she loves what she does and I recommend her without hesitation.
3. If you've never had a massage before, I think Body Mechanics is a great place to go. Just remember, your therapist knows what they're doing, but they can't know how it makes you feel unless you tell them. Which is probably why I ended up sore after my first message!
Here's what I initially wrote: **
ok, i waited a few days to write this review cuz i just wasn't sure what to say.
on the one hand--the experience of the massage was very good. i felt relaxed and comfortable with stephanie. i was a little apprehensive and couldn't manage to tell her if the pressure was too much, i figured it would feel good later. i know better for next time tho...gotta speak up.
the downside was, when i left, the pain in my back was still there. in fact, still is. i gave them 4 stars because i can't seriously expect them to undo a week's worth of damage in an hour, but it was a little disappointing to still be in pain.
it's totally affordable, and a great idea if you live in the allston area. i'd say treat yourself to a little bit of luxury every now and then. -
Review from Anna B.
Boston, MA
8/26/2006
I am a big fan of this place. It's cheaper than the downtown places and the quality of therapists is comparable or better.
11/27/08 update: I have had dozens of massages at other places in Boston since I wrote my 2006 review (I abuse my body regularly and have a chronically sore back) - I went elsewhere due to proximity to my office, Spa Week and other reasons to try new places. Body Mechanics remains my first choice! Good prices, great therapists and OPEN SUNDAYS! -
Review from sam g.
Brookline, MA
7/14/2008
What a deal! I checked in after I strained my back remodeling our kitchen on a Sat afternoon... and Stephanie was a life saver! They took me right in w/o an appointment, and the massage completely set my back straight... it was a Goldilocks massage - not too rough, not too soft - just right :)
The extra $10 for the hot tub was so worth it... relaxes your body for the massage to follow. Sign up for their mailing list and get a surprise for your birthday! -
Review from Kat S.
Seaside, FL
11/12/2009
I really really love this place. A hot tub and a massage for $80. Thats amazing. Most massages are at least $100 anyway.
The facility is very clean, and ridiculously quiet despite its location.
Remember to take your shoes off when you come in, and no monkey business. This is a very professional establishment and they will not tolerate any hint of sexual harassment. There are enough of those places all over Boston- Body Mechanics is top notch service, quality, and performance at rock bottom prices.
My only qualm is parking. I can easily find parking across the street, but after a really relaxing massage, its very agonizing for me to try to cross the street to get to my car. I feel like I'm playing FROGGER through allston. Not fun.
There's nowhere else in Boston I would go for a massage. These people are the best. I've had the girl, and the guy, and they are equally as talented. They really listen to your needs, aches, and wants. -
Review from Francesca R.
1/6/2009
I'd walked by this place 1,000 times back and forth to work, and am embarrassed to admit that I definitely found it guilty by association. That is - I assumed, due to it's dingy locale and shady neighbors, that it was a "massage parlor" specializing in happy endings
But recently, I saw the little "People Love Us On Yelp!" sticker as I was walking by and realized that Body Mechanics was as advertised--muscular and hydro therapy. I had already decided long ago that as a little post-holiday treat to myself I was going to get a massage. My in-laws are brilliant and fun but extremely full on and by the time I got home from Glasgow, my body was a mess.
Alicia was my therapist and she sorted me right out. I got the hot tub and massage deal, and it was heaven. When you walk in, the place is chill and welcoming with lots of plants and persian rugs. Service was, as noted, a bit distant but not unfriendly. There was complimentary water to the right of the desk, across from the hot tub room.
The 10 minute soak was very relaxing in a great big room with fluffy towels, a shower and a CD player all out in the open. It was fun to cavort around in my birthday suit and then chill in the tub while reading my book. The massage room was spare but also relaxed, and Alicia took good care of me. I'm also not a fan of talking, and after she ascertained what was going on with my shoulder and how she was doing with pressure, she was quiet for the rest of the hour. She paid a good amount of attention to my wonky shoulder. In fact I'm definitely going to go back, because for the first time in ages I could actually move the dern thing to full capacity. She also managed to time the massage so that every other muscle got some work.
Overall, it was a very pleasant experience and a fabulous deal. -
Review from Evelyn C.
Readville, MA
4/1/2011
It really is a hidden a GEM. Very professional and clean. Great service.
-
Review from mandi m.
Boston, MA
8/26/2007
I went here on Yelp recommendations, got a same day appointment and was very pleased. You leave grungy Allston St. and enter a lovely oasis that's clean and serene without being over the top. They do make you take off your shoes so you might want to wear sox.
The rooms are comfortably warm and large with an empty hot tub. However on my last trip my calm was disturbed by construction I think that was next door. Whining electrical saws, music blaring and guys loudly gabbing didn't help but the massage was great as usual. I'm guessing they couldn't control that factor but docked a star for it.
The prices are very reasonable even though they are raising all by $5 in September. -
Review from Alex S.
Brooklyn, NY
Updated - 3/29/2009
I gave this place four stars? My god I'm hard to please.
Long story short: my muscles can get crunchy, lumpy, and, if you press hard enough, "feel like they're full of uncooked spaghetti" (direct quote from a massage therapist in New York). The last time I went to Body Mechanics was back in September, and it was high time for another visit, both mentally and physically-so when I got a coupon in the mail for an hour long massage for just $40 during the month of my birthday (!), I had only one response: hell yes.
I don't know what made this experience so much more gratifying than the first--I just felt more welcomed and comfortable this time around. All you need to know is this: Stephanie gives a damn good, nice and firm, highly skilled massage. And not only was the massage fantastic, but Stephanie was also incredibly helpful in answering my questions about my muscles, and even showed me a few things I can do at home to help ease my back pain. A delightful experience; your body and mind will feel amazing.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/9/2008
Body Mechanics is definitely offers some great deals; they provide spa-quality services at… Read more »
-
-
Review from Meg M.
New York, NY
11/3/2009
PURE HEAVEN!
My massage here was FANTASTIC! The massage therapist asked me what areas to focus on and I told her I hold a lot of stress in my shoulders and neck. She made sure to get all of those knots out! I felt rejuvenated after I left, like I was walking on air!
I just got a card since my birthday is at the end of the month for a $40 1 hour massage! I'm so excited and can't wait to make the appointment! -
Review from Caitlin M.
Boston, MA
3/11/2011
This is a great, laid back massage studio and a wonderful part of the Allston neighborhood. I came here on a Yelp recommendation and I am glad I was not put off by the fact that it is located on a kind of grungy part of Cambridge Street. The interior is sparse, clean, and
peaceful. The service is unfailingly polite and relaxed.
I have had at least four massages here and had excellent service each time. I had one body worker willing to stay late to fit me in for the day.
The rates are about market around here, I believe low $70s for an hour. Get on the email list, though, and the mailing list, because you'll be eligible for the $40-something birthday massage promotion. -
Review from Melissa M.
Medford, MA
Updated - 9/12/2009 1 Check-in Here
I've been here over 50 times now. I can't say enough good things about Body Mechanics. I'm totally indebted to Craig and cannot thank him enough for the wonderful massages. I wish I could give a million dollars to Craig to thank him for all of his hard work over the years. But, I'm not wealthy and do not have one million dollars to donate. But, I do have my words and the power of Yelp. I hope you all will try out Craig at Body Mechanics the next time you want a massage. Your body, soul, and mind will thank you!
Listed in: Waiting to Exhale
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/1/2007
So inexpensive for a massage and very nice decor. Craig is the ONLY person I'll ever see. I am… Read more »
-
-
Review from Layla P.
Cambridge, MA
1/24/2008
Decent prices for the Boston area and pretty good massages. I may need to go again to get a real feel for it - I wish that the massage oil used was more of a peppermint or aromatherapy smell instead of the bengay smell (which I actually don't mind at all) and I wish I didn't hear the phone ring. I couldn't really zone out and feel like a puddle when I woke up at this place...but I would recommend a try!
-
Review from Lori E.
Jacksonville, FL
3/29/2006
I just got a massage there last week and was very satisfied. They were friendly when making an appointment and were very attentive to meeting my needs. The place is very clean and comforting. The massage therapist did a nice job. I would have liked more communication but overall it was great!
