Anyone aspiring to assist people and an interest in physical well-being might want to consider starting a massage therapy business. This type of business needs specific schooling, licenses and certifications. However, becoming a therapist does not take merely as much money or time as becoming a medical professional. A massage therapist who operates his or her own business enjoys flexibility in scheduling and control of his or her own business. They also get to assist clients to get better from injuries or to lessen pain, which can be a satisfying and worthwhile experience. With that in mind, here are the basics you need to know when learning how to start a massage therapy business.

Massage Therapy Business Overview

A massage therapy business provides therapeutic service to an array of clients and customers. Most massage therapists own and operate their own business but might also be employed by a spa. Massage is gradually more valued for the benefits it provides; therefore, many massage therapists concentrate on delivering services to complement conventional medicine and treatment. Clients often become repeat clients, and this repeat business is vital to the profits of a massage therapist.

Massage Therapy Industry Overview

This industry has undergone considerable development from 2013 to 2018 and is projected to keep on growing. In fact, the massage therapy industry experienced a 7.3% annualized development during that period, and in the year 2018 alone, the industry boomed by 2.8%. This industry brought in a total income of $18 billion in the year 2018, and as a result the number of massage centers has increased.

This increased development reflects expansion and progress in disposable income. While the medical industry gradually recognized the health advantages massage provides, massage services are still considered a luxury purchase. With more disposable income, a lot of people opt to make luxury purchases such as a massage.

Education, Experience and Skills Valuable in Creating a Massage Therapy Business

Massage therapists don’t need to hold a business degree to own their own business.  However, certain experiences and skills are necessary. This includes an education in massage therapy, which is vital to working as a massage therapist. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, all states require that a massage therapist completes between 330 and 1,000 hours of learning or training prior to becoming eligible for a certification. Students must anticipate spending up to 24 months or 2 years in a massage therapy center and finishing training requirements prior to working professionally.

In addition to this, it is important for massage therapists to have interpersonal knowledge and skills. The capability to make clients feel welcome as well as relaxed is a vital skill in this industry. A massage therapist depends on repeat business; so establishing a good relationship with customers can add to the success of a massage therapist.

It is also important for a massage therapist to be disciplined in their organization and scheduling.  A massage therapist needs to keep complete, precise schedules, particularly if they travel to diverse places or locations. Finally,  a massage therapy business owner needs to have at last some talent and skills in marketing. If a massage therapy business operator is able to handle their account on social media and create a user-friendly website that is easily discoverable on Google, they are able to bring in more clients and business.

Costs Needed to Create a Massage Therapy Business

It is very affordable for travelling massage therapists to start their own business. However, it could be more of an investment for those who wish to set up their brick-and-mortar business site. Expect to spend at least $10,000 for education and certification as well as other start-up expenses for a mobile operation.

However, if you decide to create your location, expect to spend $30,000 or more. This includes money for equipment like massage beds or tables, massage supplies like massage oils, towels, lotions, creams, robes, decoration and furniture, signage, and enough money to pay for at least the first few months of rent, internet, utilities, phone bill, and payroll.