Choosing Your Massage Table

When looking to purchase your massage table there several things you need to keep in mind and look for before purchasing. So with this in my we have created a Massage Table Checklist for you to go through to help you with your decision.

Massage Table Checklist

Type of Massage You Do

1. What type of work do you do? Are doing mobile massage in which you are looking for something on the lighter side and easy to transport from house to house, office to office or sporting event.
2. Are you in a clinic and looking for a massage table that easily adjustable for height (hydraulic)
3. Are you working with pregnant woman and need to have breast recesses and adjustable abdominal support.
4. Perhaps you are looking for something with a thicker plywood top and inverted truss  to provide extra support for sports massage .

Thus it is important to know first and foremost the type of massage you will be doing and where you will be doing it.

Ergonomics for the Massage Therapist

Face it, you need a table that will allow to move freely and easily around it. The table needs to wide enough to accommodate clients comfortably but must be narrow enough to allow proper posture and mechanics while treating. The last thing you want to do is put you back out! Some tables have accessories for wider and taller people and this good to have in your clinic room. You may choose to have a table custom built for you as well.

Here are some guidelines for to help you with you purchase

Your Height	Table Width
5’4 or shorter	No wider than 29”
5’4’’ to 5’10’’	27” to 31” in width
5’10 or taller	27’ to 33’ in width

Tables made by Earthlite, Oakworks,  Custom Craftworks and Stronglite have tables in various sizes.

Most table tops are flat without  rounded corners.  If you perform multiple services the design of your table top may change.

Client Comfort

You must keep in my mind that your clients want to feel good on the table before you start your treatment. thus it is important to pick a good foam thickness. Generally you are looking at 2.25 to 3 inches . Now if you want more thickness keep in mind that it will add to the weight of your table if you are planning a mobile massage business.

Weight of Massage Table

You want to make sure that your table is light enough for you to carry around without feeling that you have to go to the weight room. Weight is generally dependent on the size, material and padding of the table.

The weight of your table will vary depending the on frames. Some are made of aluminum which would be lighter than wooden. Carrying weight will vary from 22 to 30 pounds.

Accessories

You may need to have extra cushions, padding and extensions for your table. Remember people come in different sizes and shapes and you may need to make adjustments to your table to accommodate them. Also things like adjustable head rest and arm rests are important too.

Stationary or Portable Massage Table

Will you be traveling with your business? mobile massage is growing in popularity as more people are willing to pay a little extra you to visit them in their home or business.

Perhaps you are setting up in the  downtown core your city. Are  you looking to participate in sporting events for either pre or post sports massage .

You may want both a portable massage table and a stationery table if you are in a clinic or at home.

Value for Price

There is difference in quality of workmanship from table packages that range from $250.00 to over $700.00.  Be aware of “big box” stores promoting massage tables . While they may have great deals on massage tables, be aware of their warranty and durability. you are looking for quality and something that should last at least 10 years.

Obviously you are on a budget so you want to make sure you get your money’s worth. The least expensive table however may give you the most headaches.

Brand Name

Generally most well known manufacturers make quality products. The most well known brands are Custom Craftworks, Earthlite, Master Massage, Oakworks and Stronglite

Durability and Resale Value

It is important that find a massage table that will last you a longtime. you come to a time in your practice that you want to a new table and will sell the one you currently use. your table should be easy to fix or repair.

A quality table should last a long as your career.

Eco – Friendly

You may prefer to purchase from an environmentally friendly company. These tables are generally made from non depleting rainforest hard woods.

Warranty and Customer Service

Regardless if you visit a store or order online you should get a good warranty from the manufacturer. Generally brand name companies stand behind their products. If you are looking to purchase from small independent or local suppliers ask for names of people who have purchased from them. find out if those customers are happy with their purchase.

Make sure you read the find print of their policies. Things you want to know include:

• costs of shipping for repair?
• how long for repair?
• do they send a temporary table for use?
• how do they treat you on the phone?
• how helpful are they?

Summary

Thank you for taking the time to read our checklist. We hope this information will make your purchasing decision easier to make. Now go out and find a massage table that works for you!

Massage Tables