The Rise of The Robotic Massage Machines

In an era of AI, the advent of robotic massage machines represent a somewhat tedious and even predictable encroachment on human connection.

There is a leading New York-based startup whose AI-driven massage tables promise personalized, human-free massages that adapt in real-time to the user’s body and preferences.

The name of the company is Aescape.

Their robotic massage machine is equipped with dual robotic arms capable of eight axes of motion.

Ooo. Ahhh. Eight axes of motion. Stellar.

**As many of you know, I am a certified massage therapist and practiced for 25+ years.**

You can imagine I’m not a big proponent of these AI run robotic massage things. Of course, there is no substitute for the hands and skill of a good therapist.

Additionally, I have not tried one of these robotic massage tables and don’t plan to soon.

So, this is the perspective I’m writing from….

Aescape was launched in 2024. The massage machines were initially distributed at high-end Equinox gyms across New York City.

According to The Associated Bodywork and Massage Professional (ABMP) these machines have quickly evolved from novelty to necessity.

Especially, as remote work and sedentary lifestyles exacerbate muscle tension for millions.<— this quote is part the AMBP’s article. Massage machines are not a ‘cure’ for sedentary lifestyles. Becoming active is. This is not rocket science or a secret.

I have to wonder how much of a waste of time and money these massage machines are.

Where is the REAL benefit?

But what are users truly gaining from these mechanical masseurs? And how widespread is their reach as of late 2025?

What we’re being told is this — Aescape’s massage machines deliver “a blend of precision and intuition that rivals—or surpasses—traditional massages.”

What? Since when does AI have ‘intuition’?

The AI-Powered Robotic Massage Experience…

Users lie face down on a heated, adjustable table, wearing a disposable paper gown.

They select a program — let’s say a 30-minute session for example — via a touchscreen or app.

The robotic arms, guided by 3D body scanning and AI algorithms, map out pressure points and apply strokes with customizable intensity. The robotic arms gently knead the shoulders or apply deep tissue pressure for the glutes.

Apparently, the reviewers highlight the consistency of the robotic massage machine.

There is no variability in pressure like there might be from a tired (and undisciplined) therapist.

There is just good old methodically applied pressure driven by AI that offers “meticulous” accuracy.

One Equinox member described it as “unexpectedly gentle,” feeling their “scrunched-up muscles” loosen without the usual post-massage soreness.<—- I find this somewhat strange.

The post-massage soreness is often because the body is releasing waste products from the muscle tissue or sometimes if the massage is unusually deep. It’s not uncommon to have this post massage soreness and its not necessarily because of what the massage therapist may have done.

**I you’re looking for some Real, persona,l sexy time massage with your lady discover….

Susan Bratton’s Amazing Breast Massage Master Plan…** It’s certainly NOT robotic**

The Real Benefits?

This is what the ABMP article is stating as the ‘real’ benefit…

The real payoff (for many) is psychological. The absence of human interaction eliminates any awkwardness, making it ideal for introverts or those with touch sensitivities.

And there it is. Another reason to stay isolated and away from other people.

Personally, I don’t believe its natural to be so isolated from others — unless you genuinely CHOOSE to do so as an adult.

To do that responsibly, requires that you know enough about human interaction to know you don’t want certain types of it.

Which means, that once again, another aspect f technology is not making our lives better, it’s making it more solitary.

Not Everyone Is Looking For A Robotic Experience…

Having said all that, the experience isn’t universally positive.

Some say it feels “bizarre” or “disconnected”.

The robotic arms’ gliding motions can feel clinical. A little like being “poked at aimlessly”.

Of course, there are the technical glitches. If the scan misaligns with the receiver’s body, it can and will, lead to a bumpy massage. Including the problematic robotic arms dragging themselves over bones and not muscles tissue. This is not only uncomfortable, but dangerous in this case.

There are many critics of these robotic massage machines, but in a world where humans have fast accepted tech driven devices as essential to their work and personal fulfillment, there are big proponents.

It seems that — Tom Brady — former professional football quarterback and current sports commentator, joined Aescape as Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) in September 2025.

That’s big backing, but no guarantee of long term adoption of the robot massagers.

Now, What’s The Cost?

This is one of the main things that sticks out for me… COST.

These machines are big heavy tech robots. Those don’t come cheap.

So what’s the price?

Let’s start with what individual users are paying per session...

Many locations (gyms, spas, hotels) are charging users per massage session in the range of about $60 for 30 minutes or ~$120 for an hour.

In larger cities like NYC, the range is wider.

There are even some places that offer shorter sessions. For example, $40 for 15 minutes.

These prices are individual session fees, not machine costs.

In my extensive experience offering massages in clinics and spas, as well as independently, these prices are comparable to what someone would pay for a real human massage therapist.

What does it cost for the Gyms/Operators

Companies like Aescape, that produce these robotic massage systems don’t normally sell the machines outright to gyms.

They lease/license them.

They do so for approximately $7,000 per month for the machine plus maintenance/service as part of a package deal with the manufacturer, according to Sports Business Journal.

This estimate only goes UP from there.

Other reports say upwards of $7500/month or $245/day with multi-year minimum terms and an upfront installation and training cost. This can run closer to $10,000 grand. This is according to SpaBusiness.com.

That means gyms pay recurring fees rather than a one-time purchase.

Which means they are expecting/hoping for mega repeat business — which they won’t get, in my opinion.

What About Buying A Robot Massage Machine Outright?

There seems to be no widely available public list price for outright purchase.

These robotic systems are typically offered through commercial leasing/licensing deals instead of direct sale.

Final Word From A Human Massage Therapist…

As with so many AI inventions, there seems to be limited benefits from the robotic massage machines.

The individual session cost is comparable to that of a human therapist.

Although, it’s the monthly cost alone that make these machines a really bad business deal.

So, in the end (times), I’d say sticking with as much real genuine human caring is the best and safest way to go — whether you’re getting a massage or just a regular pat on the back.