Réal Veilleux explains that the idea for Physotech was born in 1983, while he was living in Florida with his partner. He became sole owner of the gay men’s care business in 2022.
Both men frequented a centre in Miami that offered muscle electrostimulation services. After discussing with the owner, they had a revelation and, upon returning to Montréal, began the process of opening a similar centre in the Village. Physotech was born in September 1983.
They then began adding new services to their offering and quickly became the only full-service men’s salon in Montréal. "We wanted to create an environment for men who want to look after their appearance, where they would feel comfortable," says Réal. Physotech is a health, wellness and aesthetic centre that has primarily served gay male clients for several decades now.
Electrostimulation (manscaping) remains one of Physotech’s most popular services, offering muscle toning without gruelling workout sessions. Electrostimulation is also a method of choice for those who cannot train because of an injury. In a 30-minute session, this sophisticated yet delicate machine replicates the brain’s signal to the muscles as a mild electrical current, causing the muscle to contract. "Thirty minutes of electrostimulation equals two hours of traditional intensive training," explains Réal Veilleux.
More recently, in the mid-2010s, electrostimulation entered "ultra" mode with XBody workouts, the perfect combination of EMS and a workout of just 20 minutes. "It’s the new wave in fitness: electrostimulation in motion rather than at rest," he says, and Physotech has firmly become the Manscaping specialist.
Over the years, the clientele has changed and needs have become more refined. Younger clients are now keener on hair removal than on electrostimulation. "In the weeks leading up to major Pride events or big gay parties during the year, we see a significant demand for our services," says the owner. "Even today, the culture of fitness and looking good persists among many men of all ages," he adds.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the business, now with a permanent home not far from its previous locations, around rue Atateken (formerly Amherst). While the address is on boul. René-Lévesque, the premises are on the ground floor of a recent condo tower and offer a view of the barber section through a large bay window at the corner of rue Atateken.
The owner of Physotech is delighted with the 2018 move. The premises are better suited to the various services and better match the type of clientele received there. Its location at the heart of major real estate and development projects currently underway helps sustain interest in Physotech and its appeal. "For 40 years, we've instilled in Montréal's gay men the art of taking care of their bodies, and that makes us proud," concludes Réal Veilleux.
A team of five experts, regularly trained to stay at the forefront of their various disciplines, provides the services. Electrostimulation, laser hair removal, tanning, massage therapy and barber/hairdressing services undergo continuous refinement.
Physotech is open five days a week (closed Sunday and Monday). Appointments are made whenever possible.
PHYSOTECH
physotech.com
1070, Boul. René-Lévesque Est
Montréal (Qc) H2L 0E1
514 527.7587