Q: How hard is it to become a massage therapist?

It is not particularly hard to become a massage therapist. The path to becoming a massage therapist typically involves completing a training program and obtaining a license, which can be accomplished in anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the program.

Q: Is being a massage therapist a good career?

Yes, being a massage therapist is a good career. There are many reasons going into massage therapy is a good career choice. A massage therapist is a professional who massages a patient's muscles and soft tissues with the goal of relaxation and stress relief. Massage therapists take a holistic approach to pain management and relief through the use of different types of body massages.

Q: Is it hard to become a massage therapist?

No, it is not hard to become a massage therapist. Becoming a massage therapist is not too hard since obtaining the necessary education, fieldwork, and license generally doesn't take too long. You can typically become a certified massage therapist within a few months to a year.

Question 1

Can you become a massage therapist online?

Accepted Answer

No, you can not become a massage therapist purely through online courses, however, online courses in massage therapy do exist, and can be used to supplement some in-person studies in this field. All massage therapists must receive some form of in-person training and education to become massage therapists due to the hands-on nature of the job.

Question 2

Does massage therapy actually work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, massage therapy actually works to help with stress, pain, and motor function. It is not a cure but can provide relief and promote wellbeing.

Also, it can provide general relaxation. It is often recommended for clients to have regular massage therapy as part of ongoing support for their health.

Question 3

How hard is it to become a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

It is not particularly hard to become a massage therapist.The path to becoming a massage therapist typically involves completing a training program and obtaining a license, which can be accomplished in anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the program.

Question 4

How long does it take to become a certified massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

It takes between three months and a year to become a certified massage therapist.

Typically, you need to complete a state-approved postsecondary education program of 500 or more hours of study and experience. After, depending on your state and whether it regulates massage therapy, you may need a license or certification.

Question 5

Is being a massage therapist a good career?

Accepted Answer

Yes, being a massage therapist is a good career. There are many reasons going into massage therapy is a good career choice.

A massage therapist is a professional who massages a patient's muscles and soft tissues with the goal of relaxation and stress relief. Massage therapists take a holistic approach to pain management and relief through the use of different types of body massages.

Question 6

Is it hard to become a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

No, it is not hard to become a massage therapist. Becoming a massage therapist is not too hard since obtaining the necessary education, fieldwork, and license generally doesn't take too long. You can typically become a certified massage therapist within a few months to a year.

Question 7

Massage Therapist vs Physical Therapist

Accepted Answer

A massage therapist is a professional who massages a patient's muscle and soft tissues with the goal of relaxation and stress relief, while a physical therapist is a professional who helps patients recover from injuries and reacclimate their bodies to normal usage after major surgeries or other medical scenarios.

Question 8

Massage therapist vs Chiropractor

Accepted Answer

Massage therapists are focused on soft tissue, such as muscle massage and other therapeutic techniques, while a chiropractor focuses their treatment on the alignment of the central system and spine.

Question 9

Masseuse vs Massage therapist

Accepted Answer

Masseuse is a French word that refers to a female who practices massage, while a massage therapist is someone of any gender identity who specializes in relaxing or healing massage therapy practices. Due to certain gender connotations with the term, most professionals prefer to call themselves massage therapists.

Question 10

What is the career path for a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

The career path for a massage therapist includes jobs in a variety of settings, such as a physical therapy clinic, a luxury spa, or their own private practice. To begin working as a massage therapist, you first need to complete coursework to become a certified massage therapist. From there, there are many opportunities for massage therapists.

Question 11

What is a good starting salary for a Massage Therapist?

Accepted Answer

A good starting salary for a massage therapist is $21,000 in the United States. That puts you in the 10th percentile of annual income for a massage therapist in the U.S., which is about what you would expect if you were new to the field. The average salary for massage therapists is $47,245, but that normally requires some level of experience to achieve. Furthermore, a good starting salary for a massage therapist can vary by state.

Question 12

Do massage therapists get paid hourly?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapists can get paid hourly or on a percentage.

Getting paid hourly is considered the more stable option. In one 8-hour workday, it is unlikely that a massage therapist will be working with a client every hour as it can be physically exhausting. So, getting paid hourly will allow you to get paid during the non-massage time. This means you're generally considered an employee.

Question 13

What is the highest-paid massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

The salary of a massage therapist varies greatly, depending on many different factors. On average, a massage therapist will make around $49,000 per year. This figure can greatly be affected based on location, experience, and self-marketing.

Question 14

Can a massage therapist make 100k?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can make $100,000 per year as a massage therapist. The chances of earning over $100k for a massage therapist are actually pretty good because the highest-paid massage therapist positions typically pay at least $102,000 per year. The average annual salary is $47,245 for massage therapist jobs. For example, massage therapists in Alaska whose salaries are in the 90th percentile earn an average salary of $135,000.

Question 15

Can you make good money as a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can make good money as a massage therapist. Factors like location, industry, and whether you have your own private practice will determine how much you're able to earn.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top-paying industry is Individual and Family Services, with an annual mean wage of $63,220 in 2020. The second and third paying industries are Speciality Hospitals ($62,630) and Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals ($58,450).

Question 16

Is massage therapy a good career?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapy is a good career if you like a stable job, working with people, and the potential flexibility.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job is projected to grow 32 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations at eight percent. Additionally, more people and healthcare providers are recognizing massage therapy to treat pain and improve overall wellness. So, it is expected that job openings for massage therapists will increase.

Question 17

How long does it take to get a massage license?

Accepted Answer

It typically takes between several months and two to three years to get a massage license. The length of time it takes to obtain a massage license can vary and depends on the state you are in. This is because each state has its own individual set of requirements. This might also come down to the county you live in as well.

Question 18

What percentage of Massage Therapists are female?

Accepted Answer

75.2% of massage therapists are female in the United States. This is 0.6 percentage points higher than last year. Additionally, the percentage of female massage therapists has increased by 1.2 percentage points since 2010. That means there are a total of 79,476 female massage therapists in the U.S. and 26,211 male massage therapists in the United States. Note that Zippia's estimate accounts only for the 105,687 people with the specific job title of massage therapist and doesn't include grouping similar job titles, or people with potentially similar credentialing.

Question 19

What is the job description of a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

The job description of a massage therapist involves performing therapeutic massages on clients to improve circulation, promoting relaxation, and relieving stress, pain, and injuries.

Massage therapist job descriptions usually seek out a person who can maintain a high level of professionalism while also listening and understanding the client's needs. A massage therapist consults with guests to screen them for underlying conditions and assists them with selecting appropriate services.

Question 20

What should a massage therapist put on a resume?

Accepted Answer

A massage therapist should put all education and experience relating to massage therapy roles on their resume. Additionally, it will be important to note any certifications you have earned and the relevant hard and soft skills you have developed in the health and wellness services field.

Question 21

Do massage therapists make good money?

Accepted Answer

Yes, massage therapists make good money. The average salary of a massage therapist is $43,620, while the top 25% make an average salary of $59,790 per year.

These are decent salaries considering what it costs to become a massage therapist. Certificate programs can be as low as $4,000 or $6,000, while associate degrees can range anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000.

Question 22

What are the best gifts for a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

The best gifts for a massage therapist are a thermotherapy paraffin bath, an insulated water bottle, and a large candle. Massage therapists are often working with their hands throughout the day, and they are on their feet, so anything to help them relax and unwind can be great.

Thermotherapy paraffin baths are wonderful gifts for massage therapists. They are used to help with medical issues such as arthritis pain and sore joints. They can also be especially beneficial for treating sore hand muscles. For massage therapists working all day, this can be extremely helpful.

As therapists are also moving around and going from client to client, they may not have a ton of time to be grabbing water between clients. Purchasing a large, insulated water bottle that will keep their water cold throughout the day is a great idea. Try to buy one that is at least 40 oz, so they will not need to refill it as often.

Another practical gift for a massage therapist is a candle. In many instances, massage therapists will burn candles during their appointments. Buying them a candle they love will help them with something they would already buy, but you get the option to choose one perfect for them.

Question 23

What are the pros and cons of being a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

The pros of being a massage therapist are flexibility and a growing job market, while the cons are that it is physically demanding and has limited hours. Here is a more detailed look at the pros and cons of being a massage therapist:

Pros:

Flexibility. As a massage therapist, you will often be able to make your own schedule and choose your own hours. In fact, most massage therapists work part-time. This flexibility is great, as you get to make your schedule work with whatever you need.
Growing Job Market. Employment of massage therapists was projected to grow 26% from 2016-2026, and it is on track to do that. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is projected that over 200,000 people will be employed as massage therapists in the next decade.
Various Opportunities. There are many opportunities for massage therapists. You can choose to work in a luxurious spa or within a physical therapy clinic. You can focus on women's health or car crash victims. This flexibility allows you to do what interests you.
Helping Others. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a massage therapist is the opportunity to help others. Whether it's relieving chronic pain, helping someone recover from an injury, or simply providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, many massage therapists find great satisfaction in their work.
Skill Specialization. The field of massage therapy is vast and offers the opportunity to specialize in many different types of massage techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and reflexology. This diversity can ensure that your work remains interesting and challenging.
Income Potential. While the hours may be limited due to the physical demands of the job, there is potential for a good income, especially if you are self-employed or work in high-end spas and resorts. Tips can also significantly boost earnings.

Cons:

Physically Demanding. Massage therapists are on their feet during the entirety of the massages, which will be the majority of any shift. You are also working with your hands the entire time, and that can be exhausting.
Limited Hour Potential. Because of the physical nature of massage therapy, it is almost impossible for massage therapists to work 8-hour shifts, 5 days a week. Your hands need time to rest between massages, which means that if you are seeking a 40-hour work week, this may not work for you.
Dealing with Clients. Massage therapy is a service-based occupation, which means you will be working with clients and trying to please them. There will be difficult clients, and their happiness is sometimes difficult to achieve. This can be extremely stressful for massage therapists.
Licensing and Continuing Education. Most states require massage therapists to be licensed, which often involves completing a certain number of hours of training and passing an exam. Furthermore, in order to maintain licensure, continuing education is often required, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Inconsistent Income. Many massage therapists are paid per session rather than receiving a regular salary. This can lead to inconsistent income, particularly during times when fewer clients are booking appointments. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, full-time hours are often not feasible due to the physical nature of the job.
Potential for Injury. Given the physically demanding nature of massage therapy, there is a risk of injury. Common issues include back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis. Taking care of personal health and well-being is crucial in this profession.

Question 24

What degree do you need to be a massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

You do not need a two or four-year degree to be a massage therapist. Most massage therapy programs award a diploma or certification after 500 to 1,000 hours of training. Nearly all states require massage therapists to be licensed before practicing.

Question 25

What does a massage therapist do on a daily basis?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapists consult with clients, perform massages, keep documentation, and maintain a professional and clean work environment. Some massage therapists may specialize in specific modalities, such as prenatal massage, hot stone massage, or aromatherapy massage. Common activities that a massage therapist does on a daily basis include:

Frequently asked questions about massage therapists

Questions about becoming a massage therapist