The demand for quality massage therapists has grown dramatically
in the last few years and is projected to increase 24% over the
next decade.No longer just a relaxation tool, recent research
proves massage therapy is effective at treating cancer-related
fatigue, post-operative pain, reducing alcohol withdrawal symptoms,
and decreasing pain and anxiety. An availability of jobs in both
medical and spa facilities has increased the number of students
applying to massage therapy programs.As a result the need for
massage instructors has never been higher.
With 8 different types of massage techniques and expanding
curricula that include business and para-medical courses, massage
schools are seeking experienced massage therapists to train
incoming students. Experienced massage therapists who understand
how to effectively perform massage therapy and are able to train
others to use massage effectively are
The nature of massage therapy requires therapists to stay on
their feet and to use repetitive motions that can become
damaging.Also, massage therapists are often at the mercy of their
clients and as a result income varies. Approximately 42% of massage
therapists work part-time and often not as a career but as a
supplement to a full-time job. A position as a massage instructor
not only gives massage therapists the security of full-time
employment with a steady salary but limits the physical demand of
performing massages.After years of providing massage therapy, many
massage therapists consider instruction a welcome change of
pace.
Massage instructors provide students with a strong background in
theory as well in basic massage practices.Upper level course
instructors train students in specialized modalities such as deep
tissue massage, neuromuscular massage, and sports massage.Using
first-hand experience, massage instructors groom students for
employment in a spa, salon, and office environments, and also
prepare them for the National Certification Examination for
Therapeutic Massage and bodywork (NCETMB). Instructors may also be
required to help students prepare a portfolio of training
experience for the NCBTMB.
Many massage therapists are able to take on part-time and even
full-time employment as an instructor without sacrificing their
massage therapy positions.