Lying face-down on the massage table.
The prone position — lying face-down — is the most common starting position in massage therapy. The client's face rests in a face cradle (for table massage) or turns to one side (for mat-based work). This position provides optimal access to the back, shoulders, glutes, and posterior legs, which are the areas most commonly affected by tension and stress.
Knowing what prone position means makes it easier to talk with a masseur before the session starts. Mention it during the intake conversation if it matters to you — a professional male massage therapist will explain how it fits the modality you booked, adjust pressure or positioning around it, and tell you honestly when a different approach suits your body better. You will find the same vocabulary used across our massage service pages, our wellness guides, and the NYC neighborhood pages, so the terms you learn here carry over to booking a real session.