It's a long walk. But I will walk hard.

October 20, 2007 6:26 PM

How much should I tip (if at all) for a 10-minute massage after running in a race?

I saw this thread, but I was not sure if it applies.

posted by toaster to society & culture (9 answers total)

I think we need more info... did you pay for the Massage? Was it included as part of the event?
posted by HuronBob at 7:03 PM on October 20, 2007

It cost $10 and was included in the registration fee.
posted by toaster at 7:38 PM on October 20, 2007

$5 or $10 max.
posted by JohnnyGunn at 7:50 PM on October 20, 2007

$1. Maybe I am cheap.
posted by unknowncommand at 8:39 PM on October 20, 2007

You paid to register, no?
posted by unknowncommand at 8:40 PM on October 20, 2007

You're overthinking this. Just assume that you're tipping a waitperson and tip 20% (25% if you're feeling generous). What more do you want to know?
posted by special-k at 9:03 PM on October 20, 2007

The basic issue upon which I personally would make this judgement is:

Was it a good massage?

"Oh, God, YES!!!" = Whatever wouldn't embarrass you as a penitent, before your conception of God.

"Would return after next race." - $5

"Is obviously rationing effort, considering the next 200 finishers to come." - $1, the polite nod to the inoffensive effort.

"No. NO!. NOT THERE!!!" - Owes you money.
posted by paulsc at 9:07 PM on October 20, 2007 [3 favorites]

I assume that, since you are paying for it with an extra fee that was part of your registration (the $10), then the masseur/masseuse is getting paid. If so, I'd suggest $2 unless it's much better than expected or if you're feeling generous.

Exception: I've received massages in the past in similar situations that were free, but this was in part because the guy giving it was volunteering his time and was using this time as training hours prior to receiving his massage license. If your masseur/masseuse is doing it for free, I'd give them more money (which, I realize, sounds silly).
posted by MCMikeNamara at 10:51 PM on October 20, 2007

MCMike may have it right - usually these guys and gals will volunteer in exchange for either training hours OR to use it to market themselves, give out biz cards, etc.

I'd play it safe and give $5 flat fee, but thats just me.
posted by Unsomnambulist at 12:26 PM on October 21, 2007