Massage Table Size Guide
Picking the right massage table can be a tedious task, however along with your therapy skills, a massage table is the most important component in your treatment, which is why in this massage table guide you’ll learn everything you need to know about selecting the best table for you and your practice.
Sadly, the perfect massage table is difficult to pinpoint because the ideal shape and size for one of these depends on the therapist. Although a sizeable challenge, any massage therapist needs to make sure they pick the best possible tables for their treatments, many people end up getting stuck with an inappropriate massage table but that’s exactly what this article will guide you on.
Picking the Best Length
Length is a key factor in the making of a great massage table, you need to make sure the table has enough length to give your clients a satisfying experience which is why the standard size of at least 73 inches is recommended. You could go for a shorter one but it’s advisable not to, however, you can go for a table with removable face cradles which are actually pretty common nowadays. Attaching a removable face cradle to the end of the massage table can add another 7 to 9 inches to your table’s total length, this allows your table to be pretty comfortable even for the taller clients.
Choosing the Right Width
There’s a variety of body types in this world, some people are tall while others are short, some have a wide set frame while others are much narrower. You need a massage table that is wide enough to accommodate all kinds of customers, while also being at such a size that you can deliver your treatments effectively.
Generally, if you’re on the smaller side then a table that’s 28 inches wide should be suitable while for taller massage therapists, something in the range of 30 inches to 32 inches is a better fit. In the end, it really depends on you and what you’re personally comfortable with, and what will allow you to do your work in the best manner.
If you still feel confused, then go to your local stores or therapy centers and ask to see their massage tables, chances are they will have both wide and narrow ones. This will let you experience physically what it will feel like to work on tables with different widths and help you figure out the most fitting one for you.
Selecting the most Appropriate Height
Modern technology makes it very convenient for most massage tables nowadays to have height-adjustable legs. This gives you the freedom to change the height depending on what you find comfortable and what you require. The standard height range is between 2 feet to 2.6 feet, it’s the standard as it generally caters to everyone.
There’s an easy way to check if the height is appropriate for you and it only takes a couple of minutes, stand up with your back straightened and form fists with your hands, now ask someone to measure the distance from your knuckle to the floor. This distance plus a few more inches to allow for the body of your client should be equivalent to the height of the table, however you can always adjust the height according to whatever you feel most satisfied with.
What is the Perfect Weight?
The two things to consider in regards to a massage table’s weight is the working weight and the carrying weight.
The working weight is the maximum weight a massage table can withstand during treatments, this includes the weight of the client and any other weight due to equipment or the pressure you apply during treatment.
The carrying weight is the actual weight of the table, this is extremely important for mobile therapists as they will be transporting the table around frequently. It ranges from 22 pounds to 46 pounds, largely dependent on the dimensions of the massage table and the material it’s made from.
For massage therapists whose practice is generally mobile, it’s wise to choose a massage table that weighs under 30 pounds or even lighter if you can find a good quality one in that range.
Go for Aluminum or Wood?
Most therapists tend to have a clear preference for the feel of either wood or aluminum however there is an incorrect stigma attached with aluminum tables. Old school metal massage tables were not considered to be top of the line at all, they were rusty, uncomfortable, and heavy so many therapists seem to think aluminum will be the same. But aluminum massage tables nowadays are very sleek and modern, they’re lighter than wooden tables and extremely strong, making them a great option for mobile therapists. However, many therapists prefer the look and touch of wood, which is definitely a fine aesthetic.
Overall, there is no huge difference in the quality of professional-level aluminum and wooden massage tables, so go for whatever fits best in your price range and style. The major advantage aluminum has over high quality woo is that it’s extremely lightweight
Common mistakes to Avoid
You will find cheap massage tables in the market but it would be best to avoid those as they are smaller than the standard size for a table that is 73 inches long and 28 inches wide, they’re also cheaper as they are built from low-quality materials that are not durable at all.
Have you ever laid on a massage table that’s just too narrow for comfort? Well, this is one of the most typical mistakes to avoid while selecting a massage table because you want your clients to feel comfortable and relaxed, in fact, if they lay on a table that’s too small it will likely lead to an increase in stress and tension which will hinder your treatment plan exponentially.
Choosing a cheap massage table will not only wreck your client’s experience but will also harm your business reputation in the long run. In the end, it will need replacing due to the low-quality materials used and will be more costly than if you just brought a high-quality professional-grade massage table in the first place.
Skimping and choosing low-quality foam for your table is a fatal error as your clients should feel a high level of comfort during treatment. A dense and high-quality foam will guarantee that their body weight is accurately supported and that they feel relaxed throughout the treatment.
Furthermore, scrutinize your most popular and frequently used treatments to figure out what kind of equipment they require. Many therapists end up wasting money on luxuries such as a lifting backrest when they rarely ever use it.
In Conclusion
Massage therapy is a unique treatment that heals and rejuvenates the body as well as the mind, which is why massage therapists need the best quality massage tables to create an invigorating experience for their clients.
There are many other factors one can consider such as adjustable features and whatnot, but we have covered the bulk of what needs to be thought of in this article and hope it aids you in your search of finding the best massage table out there.
