While a number of massage certification programs focus primarily on Swedish massage and deep tissue massage, more and more massage therapy schools have begun offering extensive training in specific bodywork techniques like Trigger point therapy, craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, chair massage, geriatric massage, Shiatsu/acupressure, Thai massage, prenatal and infant massage, as well as Lomi Lomi, among many other modalities.
In addition to core education in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology (muscle testing), some massage certification programs also provide supplementary classes and continuing education courses in energy medicine; like Reiki, chakra balancing, and other energy healing therapies. Other studies offered as electives to massage certification programs may include but are not limited to holistic healthcare, nutrition, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, and ear candling, to name a few.
For those students interested in working with animals, there are a growing number of massage certification programs designed for the animal lover in mind. Whether individuals choose to work with horses or dogs, there are animal massage certification programs with an emphasis on equine and/or canine therapies. These particular courses involve education and training in the respective anatomy and physiology, sports massage, acupressure, and craniosacral therapy.
Depending on which one of the many massage certification programs in which you enroll, courses may range from a couple hundred hours for animal massage modalities and introductory courses, to longer term programs that may go beyond 1,000 training hours. In addition to passing a National certification exam, to acquire National certification, students must complete a minimum of 500 hours training, and meet all required education in the State where s/he resides.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding massage certification programs, let professional education within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore massage certification programs near you.

















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