Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1439667
10 m a s s a g e & b o d y wo r k j a n u a r y/ fe b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 In March 2021, ABMP—in conjunction with an independent firm—conducted a survey of US massage therapists and bodyworkers to better understand the attitudes and experiences of those in the profession. Nearly 3,000 professionals were generous with their time and participation, providing a look into the experiences of massage therapists and bodyworkers in general, and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic specifically. In addition, a smaller follow-up survey in July took a closer look at therapist job satisfaction. Following is an overview of highlights from that research. We at ABMP sincerely appreciate the time spent by all participants in these surveys, and we are proud to support the passionate, creative, dedicated massage therapists and bodyworkers who offer so much to their clients. ABMP's 2021 Survey of Massage Therapists and Bodyworkers By Jed Heneberry, ABMP Senior Director of Marketing THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 • At the time of the first survey in March 2021, 9 percent of respondents reported they were unemployed and seeking work, 7 percent reported they had been furloughed, and 80 percent of respondents were back to work. In the July survey, 93 percent of respondents said they were back to work. • 41 percent of respondents reported earning $12,500 or less in 2020. MASSAGE PROFESSION SURVEY The Demographics of the Massage Profession Respondents younger than 50 were more likely to report being a person of color. Other Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander American Indian/ Alaska Native Asian Black Latino White 87% Female 12% Male / 1% Non-Binary Third Gender The top five things massage therapists and bodyworkers reported as bringing them career satisfaction were helping people, having flexible hours, being an independent business owner, following their own path for what they want in their work, and having work that allows them to be creative. CHELSEA FERN/UNSPL ASH 71% 5% 3% 3% 2% 1% 2%