What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Massage Therapist?

Are you interested in massage therapy as a career? Are you wondering what are the pros and cons of working in this industry daily?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of body tissues [1] using the hands, fingers, elbows, forearms, and feet. Depending on your interest, the pros of massage therapist careers could easily outweigh the cons.

Read “What Is Massage Therapy?” to learn more about the field.

Pros of Massage Therapist Careers

There are many positive aspects that come along with a career in massage therapy.

Massage therapists may have the possibility to earn tips and upsell different packages to clients. Because it is customary to provide tips for stellar service in this industry, massage therapists can earn tips through superior service and care.

Massage therapists may be able to have a flexible work schedule [2], depending on their place of employment. Approximately half of massage therapists work part-time. Hours may vary due to appointment scheduling and some massage therapists may also work evenings and weekends.

Professional massage therapists work in a growing job market. [3] Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 26% from 2016 to 2026. 160,300 individuals were employed as massage therapists two years ago, but by 2026, that number is expected to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, [3] 202,400 individuals are expected to be employed as massage therapists in the next decade.

Some massage therapists work in a spa environment, which can be appealing. According to the Bureau Labor of Statistics, one of the most popular workplaces for massage therapists is a personal care service, like a spa. [2]

Cons of Massage Therapist Careers

Massage therapist duties can be rewarding but also physically demanding.

As a massage therapist, you may be on your feet all day. Being a massage therapists promotes an active lifestyle, which can have positive effects on overall health.

Your work can put stress on your hands. Because massage therapists are required to have such strength and endurance, many work part-time and cannot perform massages 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. [2]

Certain clients may be hard to please, but during training, massage therapists will learn customer service so they are prepared for all types of clients. Each time a massage therapists satisfies a client, they learn more about aiding different individuals and hone both their service and communication skills.

Massage Therapy as a Career Has More Pros than Cons

The profession of massage therapy aids in others’ health while helping the massage therapist become healthier, too. Because massage therapists are constantly on their feet and using their hands, this career path promotes an active lifestyle. Plus, massage therapists will be working in a growing job market and may have the opportunity to benefit from flexible work schedules. To learn more about becoming a massage therapist, read “How Long Does It Take to Become a Massage Therapist?”

If you’re interested in learning more about MTI’s Massage Therapy Program, fill out the form below. Please note, the Massage Therapy Program is only available at MTI’s Springfield, IL and East Peoria, IL campus locations.