The Massage Table — Why It’s So Important
Ask experienced massage therapists to name the most crucial elements to developing and sustaining a successful practice and the overwhelming response will be training, attitude and equipment. Each is an essential component and while the first two might seem to be more important, the value of a good-quality massage table should not ever be under estimated.
According to the 2009 Consumer Industry Survey conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association, revenue for massage therapists is on the rise and most, if not all, rely heavily on repeat business. An uncomfortable massage therapy table or one that is awkward for the practitioner to work with won’t affect the fee for that particular visit but it will be a big consideration for the client when it comes time to reschedule.
Employees or contractors in spas and centers may not have any control over the selection of massage therapy tables or other equipment used by the facility. Most business owners, however, are receptive to suggestions that will favorably affect their bottom line. If an upgrade to more comfortable massage table equipment will increase profits, then such a recommendation will be welcome.
Perhaps the most important consideration is that for clients to receive the best service, the table must fit the massage therapist’s height and the width should be wide enough to be comfortable for the client without being so wide the therapist has difficulty effectively reaching them. Proper attention should also be placed on the practitioner having access to a massage table chair, one that is designed to be used with that table model. Then there are numerous other options and massage table accessories that can increase the quality of experience for the client.
Upgrading to tables that tilt or “flex” makes it easier to reach areas of focus and expand the modalities offered. Padding choices range from the traditional semi-firm that balances support and relaxation to newer products that employ a memory function that conforms to the body’s shape. Rounded corners allow greater freedom of movement. Reiki endplates are very popular and provide far more room for the practitioner’s knees while seated. Adjustable extensions for face rest cushions not only increase the comfort for the client but extend the length of the table which is very important for taller clients.
There is a new massage table design that incorporates an adjustable breast comfort plate which can also be used to raise the shoulders when the client is in the supine position. This allows the practitioner to focus on areas previously difficult to reach. This new technology is a marked improvement on tables with cut outs or the use of pillows or bolsters.
As design and technology advance, customers will seek out those that provide the most benefit and overall enjoyable experience. Professional massage therapists who stay abreast of and incorporate these changes will not only guarantee the loyalty of their current clients but they will also attract new customers.
The economy is expected to struggle for quite some time which means that more and more people will be searching out those professions that are continuing to do well. Competition will increase. Taking the time to do your research so that you can provide your clients with the best massage equipment that your budget will allow will more than pay for itself, now, and in years to come.
Filed Under Massage Business Tips, Massage Table Innovations | Comments Off
Tagged With American Massage Therapy Association, massage, massage table, massage therapy, Reiki