We tried Pittsburgh's only robot massage
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A Pittsburgh wellness center is introducing robot technology to the massage market.
The big picture: Longevity Lab in Bethel Park recently introduced the area's first Aescape massage robot to innovate the health and fitness space.
How it works: Book the customizable massage online. Sessions start at 15 minutes ($10) to an hour ($39).
- Longevity Lab provides a spandex top and bottom to change into so the mechanical "arms" don't snag on loose clothing.
- Once you lie face down, the table uses AI to complete a full-body 3D scan that detects your height and weight, and gives you the option to adjust the leg cushions to your liking.
- A touch screen sits below the face pad, allowing customers to adjust pressure preferences and treatment styles in real time.
What they're saying: Amanda Finizio, manager at Longevity Lab — which opened in January — said that aside from the obvious differences, like no oils or tipping, the biggest perk of using the robot is flexible scheduling.
- "Booking Aescape can fit better into your everyday life," Finizio tells Axios.
Zoom out: Longevity Lab also provides services like oxygen therapy and red light therapy.
The other side: Finizio doesn't think the tech could replace human masseuses.
- "I think they're very different experiences. It can be used as a supplement to masseuse services, but not as a replacement," she said.
💠Alexis' thought bubble: I chose the 30-minute service, which surprised me at only $19 — much more affordable than a traditional massage.
- Overall, it felt very similar to the massage chairs at a nail salon or in the mall.