subject: The Importance of Hands-on Experience in Massage Therapy [print this page] The Importance of Hands-on Experience in Massage Therapy
What massage therapy majors don't learn in school could fill volumes, for there is no way to get all the necessary knowledge through books or lecturesthe most important lessons are those learned through experience. The things that massage therapist learn in school are indispensable, of course; otherwise, there would be no point to getting an education. You'd just decide to become a massage therapist, then go out and do it. The schooling provides massage therapists with a foundation of basic knowledge to build on, and without a foundation, there would be nothing. However, the additional on-the-job learning is where the bulk of the expertise comes in.
What You Will Learn in School
During your massage therapist training, the things you are required to learn will vary based on which state you live in. Your massage classes will likely include subjects such as anatomy, motion and body mechanics, organs and tissues, physiology and, of course, all of the major massage techniques. Some massage therapy schools also provide training in other types of alternative or oriental medicines, while others have more of a focus on the business side of things with classes on business management and related topics.
Hands-on Training and Learning from Your Clients
The most time-consuming part of the training is the hands-on training. On average, massage therapists are required to complete about 500 hours of practice or hands-on training before they can be professionally credentialed, but this can vary by state. Most states require massage therapists to be licensed to perform the job, although this is not required in all states.
So what about the things massage therapy majors don't learn in school? The hands-on training provides a great deal of experience, but there are some things that you just won't learn until you're out their working with the public. You will learn how to adjust your techniques for patients with certain injuries and illnesses, and you will have to be able to give your clients an impression of trustworthiness so that they will feel comfortable with you. If you aren't able to be communicative, empathetic, friendly and understanding, clients will not keep coming back. Above all else, you must learn to listen to the needs of your clients.
Institutions offering quality Massage Therapy Programs include Cortiva Institute, Apollo College, Kaplan College, Keiser University, Utah College of Massage Therapy and Western Career College.
