Training to be a massage therapist isn’t difficult and in most cases takes 12 months or less. Massage therapists are eligible for national certification based on the hours of coursework they’ve completed, so the amount of instruction you receive is very important. You should expect to undertake at least 500 hours of coursework to prepare yourself to sit for the national exam. Participating in an externship, essential real-world practice as a massage therapist, can bring the total up to 1,000.
Massage therapy students study include everything from the basics of the human body to specialized massage techniques. A good program will prepare you to work as a professional massage therapist in a number of working environments, while also equipping you with the number of course hours needed for national certification.
Basic Coursework
As a massage therapy student, the foundation of your coursework will be in anatomy, physiology, and pathology. These three subjects are essential to understanding the structure, function, and care of the human body. You might also take classes in pharmacology to recognize how prescribed medications affect body and learn to adjust your massage technique accordingly. Some programs include a class in kinesiology, the study of physical movement, along with the basic course load.
You will learn about the history and theory of massage as a way to fully understand the scope of the practice, which stretches back over 2,000 years. As a massage therapist, you will be expected to understand both the benefits and limitations of your craft, which is a blend of art and science. Classes in contraindications – existing conditions that can limit the effects of massage on an injury and even prove harmful – will equip you to make appropriate judgment calls when working as a massage therapist.
It is important that massage therapists – like all therapists – learn how to establish boundaries with clientele. Massage therapy is an intimate practice and requires close monitoring of client relations. Certain programs might offer classes in professional ethics, which will teach you the legal and moral boundaries of massage.
Some massage therapy schools have classes in career management and business development required for all students. Topics covered may be interview preparation and presentation, resume enhancement, advertising, marketing, and self-management. The skills you learn will benefit you after graduation when you are looking for employment or starting your own business.
Specialized Coursework
Along with the scientific and professional aspects of their training, massage therapy students learn about the many different types of massage currently performed. Massage therapists may choose to specialize in one particular area or practice a wide array of massage techniques. You will master the multitude of massage modalities through a combination of demonstration and hands-on experience. Your specialized class work may include:
- Swedish Massage – Uses several different stroke patterns to stimulate circulation.
- Deep Tissue Massage – Type of massage that penetrates deep into the muscual structure
- Shiatsu – Applies pressure with fingers and palms to release tension.
- Sports Massage – Focusing on healing repetitive stress and athletic injuries.
- Acupressure – Applies pressure to points on human body to unblock “chi” or positive energy.
Other courses may train you to practice massage for specific populations, such as the elderly or pregnant. Your final skill set will determine the type of employment you can seek after graduation. Investigate massage therapy programs for the types of classes they offer before making a final decision as to enrollment. Also explore the classroom where training takes place. Many programs have student clinics and community centers where you can practice your techniques as you learn and gain more class hours towards national certification.
Other Holistic Practices and Spa Technologies
Massage therapy students often have other courses available to them outside. Training in holistic practices such as aromatherapy, reflexology, and hydrotherapy are marketable techniques that massage therapists can use to enhance their visibility in a competitive job market. Some therapists also practice acupuncture, which, like some types of massage, involves releasing positive energy through the application of pressure in key parts of the body. Diversifying your skill set will set you apart from your peers and hep you find a position in a large variety of work environments.
Certification
After completing training, massage therapists who have completed the minimum of 500 hours of coursework can elect to become certified. There are two ways to become certified by The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCTMB) . Therapists may choose to take National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB) or the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM). Both exams qualify the candidate for work as a professional massage therapists.
State law varies in regards to practicing massage therapists. Some States require national certification for all massage therapists and ask that candidates graduate from a State-approved institution or submit a log of training experience for review. In States where certification is not compulsory, this may not be necessary. Always check with the local State board to find out what the legal requirements are for a massage therapist in the area you wish to practice in and what certification, if any, is preferable.
Certification must be renewed every 4 years through continuing education. Therapists must also perform at least 200 hours of therapeutic massage to remain eligible.