Massage Therapy: What Is It?
Many people used to think of massages as just a luxury. It was a fancy spa service for rich ladies with too much time on their hands. However, the truth is that massage therapy is an ancient art. For thousands of years, massage therapists have made people feel better and live more comfortable, active lives.
By definition, massage is the application of soft-tissue manipulation techniques to different areas of the body. Variations on these techniques can improve circulation, fight fatigue, and reduce stress. It can also be a critical part of healing after injuries, accidents, or surgeries. Because of the specialty, it’s not a job one can simply start doing. Professional accreditation protects massage therapists and massage clients.
What Do Massage Therapists Do?
Massage therapists come in many different shapes, sizes, techniques, and backgrounds. If you are capable of physical labor, then you can become a Massage therapist. With Medical Training College, you can complete the program in under a year (day classes). Massage therapists’ primary duty is to take care of their clients and provide a beneficial and relaxing experience. To accomplish this, they have several responsibilities:
- Preparing the massage therapy area, including the room, bed or mat, and any needed supplies. Ensuring its cleanliness is essential for the health of the client and the therapist.
- Setting a schedule to ensure every client is seen promptly and receives the attention they expect. Being on time is a big part of a client’s level of satisfaction.
- Making sure the client is relaxed by attending to environmental factors. It’s important to eliminate distractions, such as excess noise, smells, or movement.
The Massage Therapy Profession
As a career field, massage therapy is worth exploring. There are so many people who want—or need—massage therapy in their lives. If you want to look into becoming a massage therapist, then you should consider the following:
Massage therapy training takes less than a year.
At Medical Training College, the program can take as little as nine months. And the overwhelming majority of students complete the program within that timeline. During this time, students can learn a variety of massage modalities. These include Swedish massage, sports massage, reflexology, and spa therapies.
Massage therapists can work in a variety of settings.
The number of potential employers for massage therapists might surprise you. They include private practices, sports team facilities, chiropractic offices, wellness centers, health salons, fitness clubs, activity centers, day spas, and resorts. Additionally, massage therapists can also work for themselves as freelancers. They can even have a portable massage table to visit their clients wherever it’s convenient for them.
Massage therapy careers are expected to grow.
From 2018-2028, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the massage therapy field to grow by 22%. The average growth rate for all occupations is only 5%. Additionally, the median annual salary for massage therapists is over $40,000. So, by comparison, massage therapy could be a profitable, employable career path.
Make A Massage Therapy Career For Yourself
Are you ready to use your hands to make a career for yourself? Find out for sure with our Career Readiness Quiz! Then, contact us to learn more about becoming a Massage Therapist at MTC. You can reach Medical Training College in Baton Rouge at (225) 926-5820 or fill out our online form. We’re available for virtual or in-person admission appointments. Let’s get you started on your future!
