Massage table buyers guide

Massage Table
Buyers' Guide

In the U.S. and Canada, you can reach us at 773-764-6542.
For callers outside the U.S., please dial: +1-773-764-6542

WHAT IS THE BEST MASSAGE TABLE FOR MY
PRACTICE?
We sell massage tables for all purposes and types of massage. Of course,
personal preference comes into play when choosing a massage table but
there are also some basic guidelines to follow. Below, are questions we
commonly receive with regards to what massage tables are best for specific
massage techniques. Because the tables we offer change from time to time,
we will discuss what features to look for in a table and recommend specific
models as well.

WHAT MASSAGE TABLES ARE BEST FOR
ASHIATSU MASSAGE?
The main concerns with Ashiatsu are that a table is very strong, stable and
sufficiently wide. Check the working weight in the technical details of a
given table’s information to verify that it is high enough to satisfy your
needs. In the case of Ashiatsu, we recommend a table that can support the
full combined weight of you and a client, even though the bars take much of
your weight during a treatment. Many of our clients who are Ashiatsu
practitioners choose a stationary massage table for the clinic because they
can support a very large amount of weight and also because therapists who
use bars to support themselves in an Ashiatsu treatment are typically not
mobile therapists. That said, many our portable massage tables are strong
enough for the method as well. For Ashiatsu practitioners who do not use
bars, we recommend massage tables with a feature called the Shiatsu cable
release (AKA a push-lock table). This feature allows you to place the table
top directly on the ground. The firmness one looks for in a table is very
subjective but many Ashiatsu therapists prefer a firm table with two inches
or less of foam. These firm tables provide the greater resistance and
support which is useful for techniques which use great amounts of pressure.
Classico BodyChoice Table is our top pick in this category.

http://www.bestmassage.com

WHAT IS THE BEST MASSAGE TABLE FOR
AYURVEDIC THERAPY?
Massage therapist who use Ayurvedic methods typically focus on the use of
oils. All of our tables are water and oil proof. A main concern with this type
of therapy is the cleanliness of the table. To ensure the cleanliness of your
table we recommend using oil-proof covers and vinyl and leather cleaning
fluid. Ayurveda BodyChoice is our most recommended massage table for
Ayurvedic therapy.

USING CRANIAL SACRAL TECHNIQUES?
Our massage tables provide enough leg room to perform these techniques.
We also sell table extensions to elongate the working surface as necessary.
The headrests of all of our tables can be removed to give you access needed
to perform cranial techniques. Because Cranial Sacral techniques are
generally gentle, you can make client comfort a priority and get a table
which has thicker, three inch foam, preferably including memory foam like
Flattop Pro BodyChoice massage table. The soft foam will make it more
comfortable for the therapist as well if he or she needs to perform
movements with his/her hand under the client’s body. Massage Stool with
Backrest is also recommended for therapists.

OSTEOPATHIC THERAPY?
It is somewhat difficult to make specific recommendations for therapists
who use Osteopathic methods because the approach encompasses such a
wide variety of techniques, many of which overlap with other types of
massage. Many of our clients who practice Osteopathic therapy choose a


table with two inches or less of padding which provides firmness and
resistance. Many osteopathic therapists choose a stationary massage table
with an adjustable back for its versatility, similarity to a traditional
physicians table, and because it provides a sturdy surface which a patient
can alternate between sitting on the edge of and lying on, depending on the
technique being used. Versatile BodyChoice is one of our best selling
stationary massage tables for Osteopathic Therapy.

REIKI?
While several of our tables are not designed specifically for Reiki, they
provide enough legroom to work well with Reiki techniques. Several of the
tables like Transformer BodyChoice come equipped with Reiki panels for
added leg room at either end of the table so you can perform necessary
techniques on the crown, third eye, and root chakras, even when you are
sitting in a massage stool. We also sell Reiki panels which can be used with
many of our tables. Because Reiki is generally focuses on the client’s
energies and Universal Energy, you can make client comfort a priority and
get a table with three-inch foam and preferably including some memory
foam. If you use crystals when you are doing Reiki, it is a good idea to
consider a wider table of 30 inches so you have room to set the crystals
around the client. For additional comfort one can also buy KP-2 Organic
Pillows.

SHIATSU AND THAI MASSAGE?
The two main features our clients who practice Shiatsu look for are table
strength and firmness. Our tables are all very strong and can support the
added pressure of shiatsu massage. Check the working weight in the
technical details of a table to verify the working weight is high enough to
satisfy your needs. In the case of Ashiatsu, we recommend a massage table
that can support the full weight of you and a client, even if the bars take


much of your weight. Many of our clients who are Ashiatsu practitioners
choose a stationary table for the clinic but our portable table are strong
enough as well. We also offer tables designed to make Shiatsu easier. The
feature called the Shiatsu cable release (AKA a push-lock table) is ideal.
This feature allows you to place the table top directly on the ground when
you need to exert great amounts of pressure on the patient. The firmness
one looks for in a table is very subjective but many Shiatsu and Thai-style
therapists prefer a firm table with two inches or less of foam. These firm
tables provide the greater resistance and support which is useful for
techniques which use great amounts of pressure. Multi-Purpose Mattress and
Flannel Fitted Sheets can also be necessary accessories for these
techniques.

ACUPUNCTURE?
For acupuncture, we recommend massage tables that are very comfortable
like Multi-Purpose Master Portable Massage Table. A wider, 30” table with
three inches of foam is preferred. It is important that your client is very at
ease during these techniques. Many times, the client will want to remain
lying in the table after a treatment is done while their body clarifies or
detoxifies. Thus, a comfortable table is essential. Sometimes, a client may
lie on their back and may or may not want to use the headrest at these
times. So a long massage table is also advisable.

WHAT MASSAGE TABLES OR CHAIRS ARE
BEST FOR ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE?
Acupressure massage typically uses pressure focused in very specific points.
Therefore, a massage table with three inches of foam is acceptable because
you will not often need the added firmness of two inches foam like you do
with many deep tissue methods. For many techniques, the patient is
required to sit. A sturdy stationary massage table or a Comfort Massage
Stool can provide an ideal bench for them to sit on. A table with the quick


release / shiatsu cable release / push-lock feature may also be appropriate
because you can set the table directly on the ground and let the client sit
on it with crossed legs, giving them comfort and you total access to the
points you need for treatment. Alternatively, have a separate place for your
client to sit during these techniques.

WHAT TYPES OF TABLES ARE GOOD FOR
BEAUTY WORK AS WELL AS MASSAGE?
Beauticians generally favor massage tables with adjustable backrests. This
feature lets the client either lie down for a massage or recline for waxing
and other beauty treatments.

WHAT MASSAGE TABLES ARE BEST FOR DEEP
TISSUE MASSAGE?
For deep tissue massage, you will generally want a massage table with two-
inch thick foam instead of three inches. The added firmness of these tables
will help you obtain the deep penetration you are looking for. However, you
can also get the same result with three-inch thick foam massage tables, but
you may have to work harder because the extra foam equates to more
pressure needed. You can also check our massage tools for deep tissue
massage.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE MASSAGE?
For Myofascial Release, therapist may use deep, penetrating motions with
their knuckles, forearm, elbow, etc when they do direct techniques. If these
methods represent a large part of your routine, a massage table with two-
inch foam may be favorable because it will be firmer and will not work


against you during such movements. For softer, indirect Myofascial Release
techniques, you do not need to worry about having a firmer table. Oval
Deluxe BodyChoice Massage Table is our top recommendation for Myofascial
Therapists.

SPORTS MASSAGE?
Sports massage encompasses a wide variety of techniques. With sports
massage, there are a few factors to consider when buying a massage table.
First, you will want a firmer table which means two inches of small cell
foam. Sports massage often involves deep tissue penetration and percussive
or tapotement techniques. Thus, a massage table with very thick foam can
make these techniques more difficult to perform. Second, with sports
massage you are, of course, working with athletes. Keep their size in mind
and get a wider massage table although this will be more or less important
depending on the sport your athletes practice). Additional table widening
like table extensions may be a smart purchase if you expect to have some
very large clients. Some sports massage therapists, however, find a massage
table with an adjustable backrest beneficial because they use this feature
to help a client elevate their legs before, during, or after a massage.
Bolsters and Hot And Cold Packs are also useful for this purpose. Also,
consider getting a few massage tools for times when your hands feel to worn
out to get really deep.

STONE MASSAGE?
Different therapists use different techniques with hot stones, and these will
influence what massage table is right for you. If you practice hot stone
massage, you may want to consider a heated top massage table. These
heated table tops do not need to be activated for every massage but


together with the hot stones they can help you leave your client feeling
extremely relaxed and tranquil. Especially in the winter time, the mild heat
they provide is a feature your client will appreciate. When it comes to using
the massage stone as a tool, therapists are very different in their
techniques. If you like to use a large stone to get very deep, a firmer table
with two inches of small cell foam may be a good idea because, like with
any deep tissue massage, it will be easier to penetrate. For many stone
therapists, however, comfort is of the utmost importance and three inches
foam is ideal. Even for deep tissue work, the added pressure and focus that
comes with using a stone can make a table with three inches suitable. One
can also check our Massage Stones Section to get the best stones and
accessories for hot and cold stone massage.

SWEDISH OR CLASSIC MASSAGE?
Swedish or Classic massage is known for several specific techniques, each of
which should affect the table you choose. If you are going to rock, vibrate,
or oscillate your client you might want to use a stationary table because
they are the steadiest. A wider 30” table is often a good idea if you will be
rocking your client because you want them to feel secure on the bed’s
surface. A steady massage table is also important for techniques such a long
effleurage or sliding techniques and for techniques which use friction. A
stationary massage table is ideal for these techniques if you have the option
of using one. That said, our portable tables like Eco BodyChoice table are
very sturdy and, unlike many on the market, they do not creek. If you use a
portable table for and do a lot of oscillation, make sure to regularly tighten
the various screws and bolts of your table. Many Swedish massage therapists
choose a massage table with only two inches of upholstery because some
techniques involve using a good deal of pressure and the firmness of two
inches of small cell foam is useful for these methods. Since there is a
variety in Swedish massage, a massage table with three-inch foam table
may be suitable for some therapists as well like Masterpiece Deluxe
BodyChoice Table.


TRIGGER POINT?
Trigger point therapy can use a variety of tables. Typically, a massage
therapist will not use trigger point techniques exclusively, but will integrate
them into their repertoire of healing methods for clients with strained of
painful trigger points. Some therapists prefer firmer two-inch thick foam
because they feel it is easier to maintain extended, even pressure on the
trigger points, necessary in certain techniques. If you are using your open
palm to apply pressure for extended period of time, a firmer table will be
useful. If you are applying pressure to a very specific area and, especially, if
you are just using your thumb or a similarly sized tool, thicker foam may be
perfectly acceptable because the technique will not shift the client’s body
as much. If you do extensive trigger point therapy, you may also want to
consider some massage tools like Trigger Pointer to help you get the
pressure you need to apply without straining your own body in the process.

WHAT MASSAGE TABLE SIZE IS BEST FOR
ME?
The standard size of a table is 28 inches wide by 72-73 inches long (83
inches including the headrest). This standard table matches the needs of
the client who has an average body size and is ideal for the body worker
who is less than 5 foot 9 inches. Most body workers prefer to work with a 29
or 30-inch table, especially if they are over 5 foot 9 inches or work with
large clients such as athletes, or people who are overweight. The 30-inch
table is 2 to 3 pounds heavier than the standard table so some mobile
therapists sacrifice some width for portability or buy either a massage table
cart or wheeled carrying case (for those that tables that do not already
include a wheeled case) to transport their larger table.


WHICH THICKNESS OF FOAM SHOULD I LOOK
FOR IN A MASSAGE TABLE?
Some massage therapists prefer a table with 2-inch thick padding because it
provides more resistance, and thus they can administer a more intense
massage. On the other hand, some body workers are more concerned with
the client's comfort and thus choose a table with 3-inch thick padding. In
either case, it is critical that you choose a table with dense, small-cell
foam, so the table will retain its form after many years of use.

WHAT IS THE ADVANTAGE OF THE DOUBLE
LOCK SYSTEM?
Double locks provide more stability for the table -- and thus for clients that
feel uneasy on massage tables -- than just one lock. A single-lock table may
sway slightly, taking away from your client's ease and relaxation.

WHAT IS THE PATENTED AUTO LOCK FRAME
AND LEG SYSTEM?
This system enables you to effortlessly set up your table in 5 to 10 seconds.
There is no assembly required, and you can get to work right away. It does
this without comprising the integrity or stability of the table.


HOW MUCH WEIGHT DOES A MASTER
MASSAGE™ TABLE SUPPORT?
All of our tables generally support at least 2,000 pounds of static weight
(weight evenly distributed across the table) and 500 pounds of working
weight. Please see the individual table descriptions for more details.

WHAT IS A UL LISTING?
"UL listing" means that the massage table has been tested by Underwriters
Laboratory, an independent product quality verification organization in the
U.S. Only the best massage tables have this certificate of excellence. By
selecting a UL-listed table, you demonstrate to your clients your
commitment to their safety. You may find that having a UL-listed table is an
advantage, should a question of liability arise.

WHAT SHOULD I DO TO KEEP MY MASSAGE
TABLE IN GOOD CONDITION?
After you first receive your massage table, it is a good idea to check all
screws and knobs to verify that they are still tight. During transit,
temperature changes and varying humidity levels may loosen them. This
process will take only a couple of minutes.

To help maintain the table's stability in the future, follow this simple
maintenance schedule: Every 1 to 6 months (depending on how frequently
the table is used), or if you notice any looseness in the table, check and
tighten:

•the 8 knobs for the height adjustment (by hand)
•the 8 screws on both wooden leg panels (use a screwdriver)
•all joints of the leg and frame system (use an Allen wrench AKA hex key)


Of course, maintenance also includes cleaning the table after each use. We
supply a variety of massage covers to aid in maintaining a clean table. To
clean the table you can use a mild soap and water. We also sell a vinyl and
leather cleaning solution for this purpose.

Feel free to send regular postal mail or Express Mail to our
mailing address:

BestMassage.com –
TAO Trading Corporation
1419 W. Howard St.
Chicago, IL 60626


Massage table buyers guide

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Massage table buyers guide