Choosing Your Massage Table
Choosing just the right massage table to suit you doesn't have to be as hard as you think! Sometimes it comes down to having too many choices. If you know what you want in a massage table before you purchase one, it makes the final decision much easier.
When it came time to buy my "massage table", I was happy with the final result, because I put a little time in to research products first.
Massage Tables: What Are My Choices?
Massage Tables, So Many Choices!
You can order extensions, cradles that are adjustable, or cradles that are fixed, and you can choose from portable massage tables or stationary ones.
You first have to ask yourself what modality you'll be practicing, and also how much padding you'll need!
Massage Table Basics
Massage Table Options
The standard table length size is 73".
You can also custom order tables if you want a shorter or longer table. Some tables can be as short as 65" or as long as 85".
Standard table width ranges between 25 to 32 inches. You can also custom order width as well through some companies.
What about the cradle?
A cradle is simply a headrest. The cradle can be movable or fixed. Fixed means you slide it in and out to use it, adjustable means you can drop it down. I loved having an adjustable headrest personally.
What about the foam padding?
This is an area that you don't want to scrimp on. Get foam that is average to slightly thicker than average.
You will also need to decide between high and medium density foam.
If you can't afford to add extra padding at this time, you can add a pad later. If you'll be doing a lot of deep work, you don't want it to be as padded.
Massage Tables
Massage Table Package Karma Lightweight Massage Table
Amazon Price: (as of 07/14/2009) 
Massage Table: EarthGear DreamLite
Amazon Price: (as of 07/14/2009)
Oakworks Portable Massage Tables - Advanta - Terra Touch - Plush Padding
Amazon Price: (as of 07/14/2009)
Oakworks Table Cart
Amazon Price: $79.95 (as of 07/14/2009)
Massage Therapist Basics
Master Massage Adjustable Rolling Stool
Amazon Price: $59.99 (as of 07/14/2009)
Master Massage Fleece Pad
Amazon Price: $44.95 (as of 07/14/2009)
Flannel Face Cradle Covers 5 PACK
Amazon Price: (as of 07/14/2009)
Biotone Dual Purpose Massage Creme 14oz - #DPC14Z
Amazon Price: $24.95 (as of 07/14/2009)
Oakworks on eBay
Oakworks Massage Tables and More
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Earthlite on eBay
Earthlite Massage Tables
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byEarthgear on eBay
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byMassage Tables: What Else Should I Know?
Massage Table Details
If you are using your table to practice something such as Reiki, you may prefer to have an open end plate, which allows you to place your legs under the table while seated.
What is a shiatsu release?
A shiatsu release allows you to fold the legs under the table and place it flat on the ground.
What does UL mean?
UL means that the product has been independently tested and has passed certain criteria, such as weight bearing. Remember that a table may say it can hold a certain weight, but its working weight may be different.
Massage Therapist Stuff on CafePress
Happy Massage Table Shopping
If you're a student, you may be interested in this book.
========================================================
Technorati Tags:
massage, massage therapy, massage therapist, massage tables
