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How to Start a Career in Massage

Contributor
By Allen Young
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
Massage
Massage
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Massage and massage therapy are rapidly growing fields. People use massage to relax, to treat neck, back and muscle strain, or simply to treat themselves after a long hard day. Choosing a career in massage can be rewarding in many respects. It allows you to set your own schedule and cater to a specific clientele.

From Quick Guide: Body Massage Tutorial
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Decide what area of massage you wish to specialize in. There is massage for relaxation, massage as treatment for sports injuries and even massage for animals. Pick an area you think you will enjoy.

  2. Step 2

    Check out the requirements for massage therapists in the place you intend to work. Different states, and even cities, have varying rules and regulations regarding massage therapy.

  3. Step 3

    Train for your specialty at an accredited school. Most courses will include the basics--Swedish, deep tissue and trigger point massage--and you will have other classes depending on your chosen field. Make sure the school you choose is accredited and meets the local rules and regulations where you will be practicing massage therapy.

  4. Step 4

    Volunteer at a large massage clinic or ask to be taken on as an intern by a respected therapist in your area. This will give you further instruction, and the chance to earn some references before striking out on your own.

  5. Step 5

    Look for work on your own. Many beauty salons and spas offer massages in addition to their other services, and will only charge you a small fee for the use of a room in their facility. Other avenues include working in the sports industry or even freelancing on your own.

Tips & Warnings
  • Invest in your own massage table and offer freebies to family and friends. Print up coupons with a ‘special price’ and hand them out to increase your own business. Being your own boss feels great.
  • Be aware that massage therapists, as are chiropractors, are sometimes sued, so refuse to work on anyone with a major health problem that has any chance of being aggravated by massage.
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