FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I wear?

The work is easiest if men wear boxer shorts or briefs, but swimming trunks are fine. Women please wear both bra and underwear. Sports bras are more difficult to work with, but are OK if that is what you are most comfortable in. A two piece swim suit is also fine.

How long does a session last?

A session last one and a half hours. This includes before and after assessment, and allows for discussion or questions. The first session is usually up to two hours, to allow for discussion of your health background and your goals.

How much does it cost?

For details of prices and offers, see Prices

Rolfing could be seen as an investment in one’s long-term health and well-being. As few as ten sessions can change poor posture and restricted movement habits that may have taken a life-time to acquire.

Does it hurt?

Some parts of the treatment may be uncomfortable or painful depending upon injuries and chronic stress as well as other factors, however the work will be at whatever level is comfortable for you.

How is it different from chiropractic work and osteopathy?

These tend to focus on alignment of adjacent bones, particularly in the spine.

Rolfing is concerned with the rehabilitation of soft tissues that support all bones throughout the whole body.

How many sessions do I need and how often?

For the relief of a particular discomfort, up to three sessions may be enough.

If your aim is a long term change, the series of 10 sessions spaced around two weeks apart is recommended, as the goals of each session create a foundation for subsequent ones.

What is the best timescale for the full “10 session” series?

It is recommended that the series of 10 sessions is completed within a reasonable timescale, often 6 months. However, you can stop treatment whenever you want, or take a break and come back later.

The time lapse between each session allows you to physically adapt to new patterns of movement and to reflect on what has been learned and accomplished so far.

Should I have follow-up sessions?

A follow-up session a few months after the series of 10 sessions is recommended in order to support and facilitate ongoing developments.

In some cases a short series of sessions focused on a particular area of development potential is recommended.

What are the long-term benefits of Rolfing?

The changes do last. However, as life changes, so our bodies change in response to our activities and environmental factors.

Occupational and emotional stress, injuries and repetitive strains can all have a detrimental effect which may benefit from further treatment.

Can I still practise my sport while having treatment?

Yes, many people experience improvements in their performance during and after the course of sessions.

You may experience some muscle soreness after exercising as the range of movement and the demands on your muscles will be different.

Previously under-used muscle groups will become available due to the realignment process.

What about contra-indications?

Of course, if you have an acute or any serious cause for concern you should initially consult your GP.

There are some specific health conditions that make Rolfing unsuitable, and these will be assessed before any treatment is arranged.