Worries Men Actually Have About the Spa

Almost every guy has the same handful of worries before his first spa day. Here they are, with straight answers.

Will people stare?

In practice, almost everyone is minding his own business. Guys are reading, dozing and soaking. Staring is bad manners, and a spa can ask someone to leave for it. If anyone makes you uncomfortable, tell the staff.

I’m self-conscious about my body.

So is nearly everybody, at least a little. The room is full of ordinary bodies, every shape and every age. Start with the towel on and take it off when you’re ready. A towel is always fine. Here’s how to ease in.

What if I get an erection?

It can happen. Heat, warm water and deep relaxation affect the body, and it doesn’t mean anything. Don’t make it a thing. Keep your towel handy, sit it out, and cool off with a cold shower or a dip in the plunge. It usually passes quickly. Nobody expects a performance, and nobody is watching.

On a massage table it’s the same story. Therapists are used to it, they’ll keep the drape in place and carry on, and you can pause the session if you need to. Art of Manliness has a plain-spoken rundown of massage etiquette for men. And if you’re wondering what to wear to a massage, that’s covered too.

What if I run into someone I know?

It happens. Nod, say hi and carry on. Respect their quiet, and don’t make a thing of it later.

What if I don’t know what I’m doing?

Nobody does the first time. Read Start here, arrive early, and ask the staff for a quick tour. They’d rather answer a question than watch you guess.

What if my friends think it’s weird?

Let them think so. Then invite them anyway, be straight about what it is, and let them say yes on their own terms. Here’s how.

Most of these worries shrink the minute you’re in the hot tub.