Let’s face it — violently swinging a club 70, 80 or 90 times while walking up to four miles isn’t exactly your body’s idea of a vacation. That soreness in your arms and legs that sets in around the 15th hole can last for days — but it doesn’t have to. Next time you make a tee time, treat your body afterwards to a therapeutic sports massage. Most will cost you less than your greens fees, and not only will you feel every bad lie and shanked 3-iron rubbed right out of your body, your muscles will recover more quickly before your next round. Here’s a few local spas, close to courses featured in this issue of Cascade Golfer, that will leave your body in good hands:

Harmony Massage

10125 Main Pl Ste A, Bothell | Close To: Willows Run Golf Course (5.22 miles)

There’s a reason Harmony Massage was rated Seattle’s best massage in CitySearch’s Best of 2006 issue — let each client dictate the course of their own visit. While sipping your complimentary cup of hot tea or cold water, you can choose between any one of several massage therapists, including those specializing in stress-reduction, chronic pain, injury rehabilitation, or simply relaxation. Best of all, they don’t pressure you to do anything you don’t want to — you’re in control of the experience from beginning to end. Of course, once their experts put their hands on your shoulders, you may welcome the feeling of control slowly, blissfully, slipping away.

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Eastside Oasis

14044 NE 8th Street, Bellevue | Close To: Bellevue Golf Course (1.12 miles)

If the goal of a massage is to relax the body and relieve stress, then the experts at Eastside Oasis are scoring big. This is massage at its most basic core — no frills, no fancy digs or extras. A recent renovation has upgraded the facilities, but this isn’t the place to go if you want the lace curtains, indoor waterfalls and incense of some spas. I’m guessing, though, that you don’t — all you want is a terrific, muscle-soothing massage at a great price, and that’s exactly what Eastside Oasis delivers. One note of warning: it’s a little tough to find, so be sure and call ahead for specific directions. It’s certainly worth the trip.

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Pure Indulgence

402 E Main St, Auburn | Close To: Washington National Golf Course (3.51 miles)

This review of Pure Indulgence comes with a warning — if you’re planning on doing anything active in the rest of your day, don’t schedule an appointment here. I played an early 18 at nearby Washington National and hit Pure Indulgence afterward for a Swedish relaxation massage. By the time I walked out — having slept through the last 20 minutes of my 30-minute massage — I was so relaxed I could barely lift my car keys to put them in the lock. With prices as low as $35 for a half-hour massage, and regular web specials, Pure Indulgence comes highly recommend for those on the South end.

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Dreamclinic

902 Ne 65th St, Seattle | Close To: Interbay Golf Center (3.61 miles)

Of all the spas we visited, Dreamclinic is the one most geared towards the weekend warrior. Sponsors of several cycling and boat racing teams, Dreamclinic boasts a number of therapists specially trained to relieve those muscles that you use the most when playing golf, running, cycling — whatever athletic endeavor you choose. Centrally located in the Ravenna neighborhood, Dreamclinic was voted Seattle’s Best Massage in 2007 by Seattle residents for its friendly, professional staff, welcoming atmosphere and wide range of massage options. Best of all, if you and your co-workers/golf partners get that “second day soreness” two days after hitting the links, just give them a call — they can come out to your workplace and rub those aches and pains away for as little as $65/hour.