4D massage chairs offer comfort and relaxation to users in the comfort of their own homes. Typical massage chairs usually provide presets for massages, but a 4D massage chair offers unlimited flexibility and customizability because of how they're built.
What is a 4D Massage Chair & 4D Rollers?
Many people already know what a massage chair can do, but why invest in a 4D massage chair? These massage chairs might be the massage chair that's right for you since they are remarkably good at replicating what a massage by a professional feels like.
The "4D" of these massage chairs refers to advanced massage roller capability. Users get the benefit of having massage rollers or nodes that mimic the action of human hands, allowing for massaging in directions that standard massage chairs simply can't manage themselves. These famed “4D rollers” give the chair its unique naming convention.
3D massage chairs also exist, offering added flexibility with their roller configuration, but 4D massage chairs take this one step further. These 4D chairs allow for variable speed and rhythm, which closely copies what a real-world masseuse does in a massage center. Users of a 4D chair can experience these massages without having to go to another location.
Differences Between 4D Massage Rollers vs 3D and 2D
There are numerous benefits to owning a massage chair, but not all massage chairs are the same. 3D and 2D massage chairs are the ones that most people are familiar with, but technology in the field is advancing at a rapid pace. Among the most significant differences between a 4D massage chair and its 3D and 2D counterparts include the following:
- Rollers: 2D rollers remain stationary, and 3D rollers extend from the chair. 4D rollers allow for added flexibility and customizability with their variable speed control.
- Tracks: Most 3D chairs are S-Track, meaning they only massage up to the spine's natural curvature. 4D chairs tend to be L-Track, covering the glutes and the top of the hamstrings for a better full-body massage.
- Wider Range of App Control: 2D chairs don't offer app control in most cases, while 3D chairs have a limited level of control through apps. 4D massage chairs can use various apps to control the massages and even link to an AI system for use with body scanning technology built into it.
What 4D Massage Types Are Available?
A 4D massage chair has a wide range of customizability thanks to its access to variable speed rollers. The Master Drive AI 2.0 offers all of the following massage options, with rollers allowing a user to experience six (6) different massage techniques, including:
- Rolling: Massage technique that involves continuous rolling movements along the back, imitating the hands' gentle and rhythmic motions.
- Clapping: Massage technique that uses rapid tapping or clapping movements to stimulate and invigorate the muscles.
- Shiatsu: Japanese massage technique that applies pressure to specific points on the body to relieve tension and promote relaxation.
- Tapping: Massage technique that utilizes rhythmic tapping or percussion movements to loosen muscles and increase blood flow.
- Swedish: Traditional massage technique involving long, flowing strokes, kneading, and circular motions to relax muscles and improve circulation.
- Kneading: Massage technique that involves squeezing and kneading the muscles with alternating pressure to relieve tension and promote muscle relaxation.
Features of 4D Massage Chairs
Chairs that offer 4D massage, such as the Master Drive AI 2.0, come with a wide variety of features that make it convenient for users to tap into their most powerful features. Among the features that these chairs typically include are:
Adjustable Speed & Rhythm for 4D Massage
The customizable nature of the 4D rollers makes it easy to set up a massage chair in the way a user wants. Application control through the chair’s built-in tablet offers precise control of the levels and speed of the rollers so that users can customize their massage experience to the minutest detail.
Custom 4D Massage Programming
A 4D massage chair significantly differs from a 3D or 2D chair and offers users a chance to build their own massage experience. Users can mix and match massage types and control the rollers to create their own massages, which they can then save and recall at the touch of a button.
Heated 4D Massage
4D massage chairs usually offer heated massage points, such as the knees and the calf, for added relief from pain or increased relaxation in colder months. There are several well-outlined benefits to heat therapy that these chairs can help to administer.
4D Rollers Utilize an L-Track
As mentioned above, the L-Track allows for a much more comprehensive range of massage movement, going all the way down to a user's calves. The 4D rollers extend outwards and can adjust their speed and intensity, making for a uniquely customizable experience.
How Do 4D Zero Gravity Massage Chairs Work?
Zero gravity chairs are another new innovation in in-home massage therapy, and combining a 4D massage chair with zero gravity can be a game-changer for some users.
Some of the massage chairs in the Ogawa shop have zero gravity built in, but only the Master Drive AI 2.0 offers the benefits of 4D massage to go with zero gravity - creating a 4D zero gravity massage chair experience. By combining zero gravity with 4D massages, these zero gravity chairs provide benefits like spinal decompression, increased blood circulation, decreased lower back pain, and better heart health - which aren’t available outside of the zero gravity and 4D massage chair realm.
Health Benefits of 4D Massage Chairs
Among the health benefits that these chairs offer include:
- Relaxation and Stress Relief: The massage techniques provided by a 4D massage chair can help relax tense muscles, reduce stress levels, and promote overall relaxation. This can lead to improved mental well-being and a sense of calm.
- Muscle Pain Relief: The customizable massage programs of a 4D massage chair can target specific areas of muscle discomfort, helping to alleviate pain, soreness, and stiffness. Massage techniques like kneading and rolling can help improve blood circulation and reduce muscle tension.
- Improved Blood Circulation: The movements and pressure applied by a 4D massage chair can stimulate blood flow throughout the body. Enhanced circulation can promote the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and organs while facilitating the removal of metabolic waste products.
- Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion: Regular use of a 4D massage chair can help loosen tight muscles, improve flexibility, and increase the range of motion in joints. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as arthritis or musculoskeletal issues.
- Improved Sleep Quality: The relaxation and stress-relieving effects of a 4D massage chair can contribute to better sleep quality. Promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension can help individuals unwind and achieve a night of more restful sleep.
Learn More About 4D Massage Chairs
- S-Track vs. L-Track
- The Differences Between 3D and 4D Massage Chairs
- Best Practice Guide: Keeping Your Back Healthy
What 4D Massage Chairs are Available?
For the best in 4D massage chairs, check out Ogawa’s comparison chart for more information. The Ogawa Master Drive AI 2.0 Massage Chair provides everything you need when looking for a 4D massage chair that delivers quality, health benefits, and more.