15 Reasons You Should Consider a Career in Massage Therapy

Have you been thinking about a new career lately? Would you like to feel valued, like you are contributing to something bigger than yourself?  Becoming a massage therapist is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling decisions you can make! Massage Therapist is one of the top 100 jobs in the United States according to US News. According to the US Department of Labor, the massage industry is expected to grow by 26% through 2026. In a recent survey massage therapy ranked #12 in best jobs without a college degree being required and #22 in highest paying jobs without a degree.

If you like the idea of having a work life balance, being your own boss, and having a great work environment all while being able to give something back then keep reading. There are a ton or reasons that a career in massage may be right for you. We listed some of the most popular reasons below to give you more insight into why many of us have decided to make this rewarding career change.

15 Reasons You Should Consider a Career in Massage Therapy

Can graduate in as little as 6 months or study at your own pace – No need to spend years and tens of thousands of dollars in order to start a career in a rewarding industry. You can graduate in as little as 6 months or in a couple of years with our full time and part time programs. Our programs are designed with the benefit of being able to take classes at your own pace determined by your schedule. We understand many of our students are making a career change so we offer convenient classes that fit within anyone’s schedule. The instructors and staff at The Academy of Massage Therapy and Bodyworks will make sure that you are more than prepared to take and pass your MBLEx upon graduation.

Licensed professional – There’s a special pride that comes with being a licensed professional, regardless of industry. Through ongoing education and training you will experience constant professional growth while expanding upon your skill set. 

Likely to get a job immediately due to growth in industry – Due to the rapid growth in the industry, massage therapists are in high demand. Medical offices, day spas, professional organizations, athletic teams, and resorts are just some of the types of businesses looking to add massage therapists to their growing teams. The average graduate begins their new career within two months from graduation and passing their MBLEx, with some lining up their new career even sooner.

Reward of helping others – Massage makes a difference in people’s lives, that means as a massage therapist you are helping people every single day. Whether your client is seeking pain relief, stress relief, or they use massage as a preventive measure you can be sure that you are making a difference in someone’s life.

Stay fit and active – Many prospective massage therapists can see this as a benefit or a deal breaker. Massage therapists spend a good amount of time on their feet while using their entire body. This means you must be in good physical shape! The good thing is that through proper training you will be shown proper techniques and helpful advice on how to alleviate some of the stress the job can cause on the body. Many massage therapists know the key to their long term success is to stay fit, which is why they enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle themselves.

Set your own schedule – Whether you start out as an individual provider or you work in an office you will probably have a major say in your scheduled days and hours. This is a benefit that is often overlooked by potential students. Flexibility is great for parents, those who may take care of an elderly parent or relative, and anybody who likes to take an adventure or two on a moments notice. You don’t have to be tied down to a set schedule that makes you miserable or interferes with your other interests and/or responsibilities.

Work life balance – Along with the flexibility of making your own schedule, you can actually have a life outside of work as a massage therapist. Work as many hours as you want, where you want, and when you want. 

Be your own boss – Being a licensed massage therapist gives you the option of being your own boss and taking control of the things that are important to you. 

Job security – Being a licensed professional in a high growth industry means you’ll have a sense of security most others can only dream about. 

Massage therapists are in demand, meaning numerous growth opportunities – With demand comes opportunities. Medical offices, day spas, and others are always on the lookout to expand and grow their business. This means that upward mobility is attainable by anyone who puts the time and effort into growing their skills as they look to advance within the massage industry.

Large professional network – The Academy of Massage Therapy and Bodyworks has been training new and existing massage therapists for 15 years. We stay in touch with our students and encourage them to network both locally and nationally with events like Bodyworkers Conferences, training seminars, and the annual World Massage Hall of Fame celebration. 

Work in a relaxing environment – When you think massage the first thing that probably comes to mind is relaxation. This also counts for the therapist providing the massage. Calm dimly lit rooms, soft soothing music, and clients who appreciate what you do create not only a relaxing environment but a work environment you can be excited to go to everyday.

Work in exotic and exciting locations – An unbelievable benefit in the massage industry is the need for therapists at high end spas, resorts, and hotels around the world. You can travel the world and experience everything it has to offer while doing what you love. Not many other careers can offer the same opportunities that a career in massage therapy can.

Develop relationships with your clients –  As a massage therapist it is nearly impossible to not make a connection with your client. This relationship makes a career in massage one of the most rewarding career choices you can make. By developing these relationships you can become a better therapist and provide unbelievable health benefits to your clients.

Can be a very lucrative career – Massage therapists make a great living, in fact the median salary nationwide is over $41,000 with top earners making over $75,000. You truly can get what you put into this career, having a work life balance doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice making a great living in order to spend time enjoying your personal life.

As you can see there are many great reasons to consider a career in massage therapy. If you’re still undecided or have some questions you can register for one of our upcoming FREE massage classes – Introduction to Massage. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the industry, what to expect, the process for becoming a licensed therapist, and the day to day life of a massage therapist. You’ll also learn more information regarding the programs at The Academy of Massage Therapy and Bodyworks, tour our facility, and get answers to any of your questions from our instructors and staff. To register for an upcoming class please click here.