How to Choose a Portable Massage Table
Buying a portable massage table is a big investment in your business, so we have
outlined a couple of guidelines to think about when you’re buying a massage table.
You want to look for one that is sturdy, durable, and has all the features you want
for a good price.
- Type of Massage Practiced
The first thing you need to consider is what type of massage you are currently practicing
or are going to be practicing in the future. You want to make sure all the features
on your portable massage table will match the kind of work you
do. For example, you may need a massage table that can be lowered substantially
if you plan on doing any structural integration or you might want a removable top
or folding legs if you practice shiatsu. If you practice skin care or spa treatments,
you may want a massage table with a
salon top (adjustable backrest or armrests) such as the
Earthlite Calistoga Massage Table.
- Price vs. Quality = Value
A portable massage table is an investment in your practice. You
want to be certain that the portable massage table you are purchasing will be functional
for years to come, but will also fit into your budget. By investigating the price
versus the quality of the massage table, you can determine its value. You don’t
necessarily want to buy the cheapest portable massage table on the market, because
you may find that it falls apart in a matter of months under professional use, and
your investment has been wasted. There are plenty of massage tables that are easy
to repair and clean, are made of high quality materials, and are very durable, available
for a reasonable price.
- Body Mechanics and Therapist Convenience
One thing you need to consider when buying your portable massage table
is how easy it will be for you to adjust. If you are a massage therapist or massage
student that work on a diverse clientele, you may need a massage table that is easily
adjustable for height. You may also want to choose a portable massage table
that is wider or narrower depending on your height (the shorter you are, the harder
it will be to reach across a wide table) such as the
Earthlite 35” Spirit Portable Massage Table. You want to find a massage
table that will fit your body and cater to a variety of different heights for optimal
massage therapist convenience and body mechanics.
- Client Comfort
There are many different kinds of padding offered by different manufacturers to
accommodate client comfort. Be certain to consider both functionality and comfort
for you clients. Some super lightweight massage tables may only have a thin layer
of foam, while other massage tables may have multiple materials used in tandem to
pad the massage table. Some modalities require a harder surface (sports, structural
integration, etc.) while other modalities work better on a very soft surface (spa
work, Swedish, etc.). You also want to consider the longevity of the foam: thinner
foam will break down more quickly than thicker padding, and this can have an effect
on the value of your massage table over time.
- Warranty Information
Warranty information is an important, and often overlooked, aspect of choosing massage
tables. On average, warranties range from 3 years to the lifetime of the massage
table. Be certain you understand the warranty information for your portable
massage table before you buy it, and thoroughly read any information
after you receive the table. This will expedite getting any problems solved that
might arise with your massage table later. (Click here
to see our policy.)
- Accessories
You need to consider what massage table accessories you will need
for the type of massage you practice and the demographic to which you cater. For
example, will you need special massage
bolstering for pregnancy massage? Do you need massage table
extenders for larger clients? Do you want a
face rest ? Do you need a
massage table cart to facilitate transportability? Massage table packages
often offer basic massage table accessories (adjustable face
rest,
carrying case , etc.), to help the beginning massage therapist to establish
themself. You may also want
massage table linens , a table warmer, or a
fleece pad.
- Mobility
You need to assess how mobile you think you will be with your portable massage
table: where you will work and how often you think you may be moving
your practice to different locations. One good way to determine how mobile you will
be with your massage table is to imagine yourself carrying it up
a flight of stairs. For example, if you do outcall massage you may have to carry
your massage table up stairs, and might therefore want a lightweight portable
massage table, such as the Earthlite Luna Massage
Table Package. If you aren’t going to be moving your massage table often,
you might want to consider a stationary or lift table. (Click to learn about
Stationary Massage Tables and
Lift Massage Tables.)
- The Environment
You may prefer to buy a massage table that is made by an environmentally conscious
manufacturer. They may use water-based, non-toxic lacquers and responsibly managed
hardwoods, or have non-chlorofluorocarbon emitting foams. Be sure to read about
the manufacturer and their materials, if this is important to you. You may also
want to consider how humidity or moisture might damage your massage table, especially
if you practice outdoors or near water. Many companies, such as Earthlite,
are producing aluminum frames to reduce the impact of water damage.
- Average Portable Massage Table Specs:
- Length: 73 inches
- Width: 28, 30, 32 inches
- Height: 24-34 inches
- Foam: 2.5-3.5 inches thick
- Weight: 29-34 pounds
- Warranty: 3 years to lifetime
- Extras: Reiki endplate, armrests, extra padding, special colors, bolstering, face
rest, non- standard height/width/length
- Cost: $250-$999
We recommend the following manufacturers based on quality and value:
Please feel free to browse
www.bodyworkmall.com for portable massage tables and massage
accessories. If you have any questions, please call us today at
888-354-6348.
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