How to become a massage therapist

Becoming a massage therapist is an incredibly rewarding career choice, whether you're looking to help people relax, ease stress, or heal physical injuries. If you're thinking about a career in massage therapy, you're probably wondering how to become a massage therapist and what the journey looks like.

This guide will explain all the necessary steps, qualifications, and frequently asked questions so you can start planning your career today.

What does a massage therapist do?

A massage therapist manipulates clients' muscles and soft tissues, helping them manage pain, relieve stress, and improve general wellness. Massage therapy can be used for various reasons, including improving circulation, reducing muscle tension, relieving headaches, and helping recovery from injuries.

A massage therapist might specialise in various types of massage, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and aromatherapy. A massage therapist typically works in spas, wellness centres, private practices, or alongside other healthcare professionals in rehabilitation clinics.

Apart from the physical, hands-on aspect, massage therapists also understand clients' needs, discuss their medical history, and create personalised treatment plans. It's not just about manipulating the body physically but about helping people feel their best overall.

How to become a massage therapist: Step-by-step

1. Understand the role and the benefits

Before you jump into the training process, it's important to understand the full background of what a massage therapist does. As mentioned earlier, this career revolves around using your hands to relieve muscle tension, stress, and pain while enhancing overall well-being. If you enjoy helping people feel better, have a passion for anatomy, and are comfortable working physically, this might be the career for you.

2. Research massage therapy courses

The next step in becoming a massage therapist is finding the right training. To become qualified in the UK, you’ll need to complete a recognised course that provides the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Courses can range from beginner to advanced levels, depending on the type of massage you want to specialise in. Here’s a breakdown of potential course options:

• Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy: This is the entry-level qualification that allows you to become a massage therapist in the UK. It covers key subjects like anatomy, physiology, and practical massage techniques.
• Advanced Diploma in Massage: An advanced diploma may be necessary if you want to specialise in areas like sports massage or deep tissue.
• Specialist courses: Once you’ve completed the basic qualification, you can also opt for further certifications in niche areas such as reflexology, aromatherapy, or hot stone massage.

3. Complete your practical training

Massage therapy is hands-on, so your training will involve practical lessons. You will need to practice with fellow students and even volunteer clients under the supervision of your instructors. Make sure the course you choose offers plenty of time for practical experience, as this is essential for building your skills and confidence.

4. Get a license (if required)

Depending on where you work in the UK, you may need to register with a professional body or obtain a license. For example, some local councils require massage therapists to register before offering services. While this isn't always the case for individual practitioners, it’s a good idea to check with your local authority to understand any specific regulations in your area.

5. Consider further specialisations

Massage therapy is a broad field with many different specialities. As you grow more experienced, you may choose to focus on a specific type of massage, like sports massage or therapeutic massage. Specialisation can increase your job opportunities and allow you to earn more. Continuing education will be important throughout your career.

6. Build your clientele and practice

Once you're certified and have the necessary qualifications, it's time to build your client base. You can start by offering massage services at spas, wellness centres, or private practices. You might also consider setting up your own massage therapy business or offering mobile massage services. Marketing and word-of-mouth referrals are important to attract clients, so build a solid online presence.

Additionally, consider how you'll set up your business and what insurance you may want to get. You can find useful blogs online with tips on topics such as how to start your own spa business.

7. Ongoing professional development

Like other professionals, massage therapists should maintain ongoing education and training. This could mean attending workshops, achieving advanced certifications, or even attending industry conferences to stay updated on the latest techniques.

Qualifications you may need to become a massage therapist

Now that you know the steps to becoming a massage therapist, let's look at the qualifications you may need for this career:

• Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy: This is the essential qualification for becoming a massage therapist.
• First aid certificate: While not always needed, it's highly recommended for safety and to show potential clients you can handle emergencies.
• Membership in a professional body: Some massage therapists choose to join organisations like the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) or the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), which can help boost your credibility and client trust.

Becoming a massage therapist: FAQs

How long does it take to become a qualified massage therapist?

Becoming a qualified massage therapist typically takes around 6-12 months of full-time study, depending on the course and your personal life. If you're studying part-time, it might take longer.

What qualifications do you need to become a massage therapist?

To become a massage therapist in the UK, you need at least a Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy. Further qualifications in specialisation areas may also be needed if you choose to specialise in specific types of massage, such as sports massage.

Do you need a licence to be a massage therapist in the UK?

In most cases, you do not need a national licence to become a massage therapist in the UK. However, local councils may require you to register your business or practice. It's best to check with your local authority to ensure you meet regulations.

How can I become a massage therapist if I'm self-employed?

If you're self-employed, you'll need to register your business and promote your services to build a client base. You may also need to keep up with taxes, so familiarise yourself with self-employment tax requirements.

How much do massage therapists make?

The salary for a massage therapist varies depending on where you work, your level of experience, and whether you're self-employed. The average salary for a massage therapist in the UK is between £18,000 and £25,000 per year. Self-employed therapists can earn more based on the number of clients they serve.

Final thoughts: Becoming a massage therapist

Now that you've got a step-by-step guide on how to become a massage therapist, you can see that it's not a quick path but a rewarding one. You can enjoy a fulfilling career as a massage therapist with the right qualifications, practical training, and a passion for helping people feel their best.

Specialist massage therapist insurance through Ripe

Once you’ve qualified as a massage therapist, you may want to consider insuring your business through Ripe to help provide financial protection and peace of mind should the worst happen.

Specialist massage therapist insurance arranged by Ripe includes Public and Products Liability cover and treatment risk cover. You can build your own policy so you’re never paying for more than you need.

Find out more about specialist massage therapist insurance, or get an instant online quote today.