Could you retrain as a massage therapist? 10 great reasons to start a career in massage therapy

Considering a career change? Discover 10 great reasons to retrain and start a career in massage therapy.

Millions of professionals think about changing their careers every single day. If you’re one of these people, you might like to know that it’s possible to start a new life as a massage therapist, no matter your current industry or profession.

In fact, it’s easier than you think to get certified right away.

10 reasons why you should become a massage therapist

Learning the ins and outs of holistic massage therapy means going to a beauty school in your area. But before you take the plunge, here’s why you should become a massage therapist.

1) Immediate job opportunities 

You don’t have to spend three to four years getting a degree to become a massage therapist. All it takes is a 600-hour training program, which can be completed in less than a year. As soon as you’re done, you can start applying for jobs, and your college can usually help you out there.

2) Access to an affordable license

The average cost to go to a public in-state college for one year is $10,423, and it only goes up from there. However, you can become a licensed massage therapist for a little over $11,000, saving you at least $31,000 on school. Plus, you get to work in a paid job much sooner.

3) The opportunity to work at exotic and exciting locations

If you love to travel or experience new things, you could become a massage therapist in a foreign country. Tropical beach resorts and snow-covered lodges are always looking for someone with your skill set. If you can speak the country’s language, you’ll be a shoo-in.

4) Flexible schedule and the option to work-from-home

Massage therapists can work in a spa with a flexible schedule or be self-employed and market to customers around their city or town. With that said, freelance massage therapists have to know how to network effectively if they want to build a successful business from home.

5) The opportunity to be your own boss

If you decide to work from home, then you get to be your own boss. Being self-employed comes with its positives and negatives, but being able to do what you want when you want is a major win in our books. If you’re popular, you have the opportunity to make a lot of money.

6) Massage therapists help people

If you’ve ever had a bad back, sore muscles, or a stressful job, then you know just how vital a massage therapist’s work can be. A massage therapist’s whole job is to help people recover from injuries, mitigate pain, and alleviate anxiety, which makes for a rather fulfilling role.

7) Work in a relaxing environment

A massage therapist is constantly around a peaceful and beautiful environment filled with soft towels, essential oils, soothing music, and scented candles. The ambiance alone could relax your spirits. A relaxed massage therapist is better equipped to care for their customers. 

8) Work that benefits your cardiovascular health

Any job where you’re on your feet all day does wonders for your cardiovascular health, and massage therapists spend a lot of time moving around. They also have to use their entire body when giving a massage, meaning they’re working out their arms, core, shoulders, and back.

9) Ample job security

A recent Gallup poll revealed that 53% of workers want greater stability and job security. If you feel the same, then you’ll be happy you know that massage therapy is a secure industry with lots of potential. What’s more, massage therapists are in high demand all over the world. 

10) Opportunities for advancement

Once you become a trusted massage therapist, you’ll find there are many opportunities for advancement in your field. You could enter the corporate world, healthcare sphere, or become a spa manager. You could even pursue a degree in kinesiology if you want to enter medicine. 

Photo by Katherine Hanlon