The $49 Massage

You get the most benefits from therapeutic massage when you get it on a regular basis. I would get a massage every week or two if it cost $49 -- exactly the price Massage Envy is charging at its "clinics". The Scottsdale-based franchise has 130 locations already open in 20 different states and another 270 coming across the country. There's no slipper and robes, but it's a great deal: $39 for your first visit. After that, members commit to one massage a month for $49 ($59 in California, Las Vegas and a few other markets) and can get more massages during the month for $39 each. "We're catering to people who understand that therapuetic massage is good for their health, and want to get it on a regular basis," says Stephen Cook, Regional Developer of Massage Envy in Arizona.

There are other pricing options. If you don't want to commit to one massage a month you can pay a $29 initiation fee and can come in any time you want for $55. Or you can just come in for a massage anytime for $65.

You can get a whole range of massage types, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage,reflexology and trigger point therapy. One thing I like about this model is that it encourages you to try different modalities and to address long-standing problems.

You're also encouraged to find a massage therapist you like and make a standing appointment with them. This works well because they can get to know your body and what you need.

You're also encouraged to tip on the full value of the service, not the bargain price. Ten dollars is considered a minimum, $15 typical, and $20 generous.