Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/70551
TELL ME … How can I find a massage table that's right for me? ABMP Social Media Coordinator | abram@abmp.com "Width, thickness, length, padding life, wooden legs, warranty, load capacity, weight, padding, comfort." Patty Duckett-Moore, from Facebook, on what she considers when buying a massage table. By Abram Herman Finding a Balance The perfect table meets the needs of practitioner and client alike. Consider what your practice will look like. "Where are you using the table, and what type of bodywork are you doing?" asks Karla Linden from New Mexico. Then, decide on what type of table fits, keeping in mind the client's comfort and your ease of use, including body mechanics, setup and breakdown, and the weight of the table. If you're just starting massage school and are looking at a first table, you want something that's versatile enough to let you follow different interests. Once you've identified the type of bodywork that you want to pursue, you can purchase a new table with the features that best suit your style. An outcall practice will require a durable, lightweight, and versatile table, whereas a home or spa-based practice is the place for a large, sturdy, more stationery table, maybe even with a lift system if it fits your budget. Did You Know? COLLAPSING TABLES ARE A FREQUENT CAUSE OF INJURY TO CLIENTS, AND CAN EVEN LEAD TO THE PRACTITIONER GETTING SUED. YOUR TABLE SHOULD HAVE A LISTED LOAD CAPACITY—BE CAREFUL TO NEVER EXCEED THE MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATION. ALSO, CHECK ALL YOUR TABLE'S NUTS AND BOLTS BEFORE EVERY SESSION, MAKE SURE EVERYTHING'S TIGHTENED, AND INSPECT THE ENTIRE TABLE FOR ANYTHING THAT COULD BECOME A PROBLEM. 20 massage & bodywork july/august 2012