Effleurage is best described as which kind of stroke used at the start and end of a massage?

• A. Long gliding strokes
• B. Short tapping strokes
• C. Deep friction
• D. Circular motions

Answer: (A)

Effleurage uses long, smooth, gliding strokes performed with the hands or forearms. These strokes are applied in a rhythmic, continuous way to cover broad areas of the body, usually moving toward the heart to support circulation. They’re used at the start to warm tissue, relax the client, and prepare muscles for deeper work, and again at the end to soothe and finish the session. This makes the description of long gliding strokes the best fit for effleurage.

Short tapping strokes describe percussion and are used for stimulation, not the gentle, flow-driven pattern of effleurage. Deep friction targets adhesions with concentrated pressure, not the broad, flowing touch of effleurage. Circular motions align more with petrissage or other techniques, whereas effleurage is defined by these long, continuous gliding strokes.