Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/434495
If you do Asian bodywork, you will want a face hole in the table rather than a face cradle that can't support as well. —DANIEL COHEN A consideration is the quality of the equipment. It's tempting to buy inexpensive equipment when you are just starting out, but remember that clients will notice—especially how it feels when they are on the table or in the chair. It's possible for clients to create an opinion of your professionalism based on your equipment. —THERESE SCHWARTZ For the fi rst-time buyer, the most important facts are your services [that you'll be offering] and available space! —ALANI ANTHONY Try This Yourself Massage equipment is best understood through direct experience. For example, those who try different bolster sizes understand that some situations require a larger bolster while others require a smaller one. Try This with a Friend Place the massage table in a position that is too high and give massage for 30 minutes. Where does your body feel stressed? Which techniques worked well? Which techniques were diffi cult? Now, work with the table in a too-low position and ask yourself the same questions. This can cause client injuries. It can even lead to practitioners getting sued. Each table has a listed load capacity. NEVER EXCEED THE MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATION. And while you're at it, check your table's nuts and bolts before every session to ensure everything's in tip-top shape. BEWARE OF COLLAPSING TABLES! 28–32 inches The width of most massage tables. 22–36 inches The height of most massage tables. 70–73 inches The length of most massage tables. 32 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k j a n u a r y / f e b r u a r y 2 0 1 5 Therapists Speak! FROM MASSAGEPROFESSIONALS.COM Now Try This Lie on the massage table in the supine position using small bolsters. Feel the position of your joints and low back. Now lie on the massage table in the supine position using large bolsters. Try the same exercise in the prone position.