Buying a Massage Chair
10 Points to Consider

1. Do You Really Need a Chair?
Seated massage is growing in popularity, but that doesn't mean you have to get swept up in its wake. Before purchasing a massage chair, make sure you're willing to market yourself to corporations and other businesses; that there is a market in your community for seated massage; and that you're willing and able to sometimes perform massage for several hours without a break.

2. Construction and Durability
Choose a chair suited to the clientele you expect to be serving. If you are working on athletes, look for a chair that’s big enough to support their weight. Always demand the best-quality materials. Ask what the frame is made of. Plastic frames are lightweight, but tend to break more easily. Wood frames are strong and look good, but are heavier. Aluminum frames are the most lightweight and as strong as wood, but are more expensive.

3. Portability
Envision yourself climbing stairs, walking across parking lots the size of football fields, going through revolving doors—all with your massage chair. Wheels make transport easier. You might want wheels that can be in use even when the rest of the chair is protected by a case during transport. Carry straps also add to a chair’s portability.

4. Weight
Theoretically, all massage chairs are portable—but some are definitely lighter than others. Manufacturers make massage chairs in wood, aluminum and steel, ranging in weight from 14 to 30 pounds. The weight of the chair you purchase will be determined by how much you're willing and able to carry or pull.

5. Ergonomics for the Practitioner
Some chairs have a very steep vertical position that makes it difficult to work on the lower back without getting on your knees, so that might be a consideration for you. Height adjustments to accommodate the practitioner will also add to your comfort. Ask colleagues who have used various chairs which is most comfortable for them to work at, and why.

6. Client Comfort
Look for good-quality foam and vinyl that will withstand heavy use and add to clients' comfort. Your chair should feel stable and secure, and be squeak-free.

7. Adjustability
Make sure the chair has adequate adjustments for your clientele's height and arm length. You should find out how quickly and easily you can adjust the chair to fit the client.

8. Ease of Set-up
Look for a chair that opens quickly. If you’re moving around from office to health fair to office, you want to be able to set up the chair rapidly with little effort.

9. Special Features and Accessories
Some chairs have a built-in pocket to hold client jewelry and/or glasses. Depending on your clientele (elderly people, for example), you can consider options like removable leg rests. Some chairs come with a sternum pad, instructional video and/or carrying case. If such things are important to you, ask about them.

10. Warranty and Customer Service
Most massage chairs come with a five-year warranty. Check out the customer-service policies from the vendors you are considering (Will you need to cancel all of your clients for a week or two until you get your chair back? Who pays for shipping back to the factory if your chair needs repair?) The customer-service department should be able to answers your questions about all the items in this article. Pay attention to how you're treated when shopping for a chair, as these are the same people you'll be dealing with if a problem comes up in the future.

— Sources: Custom Craftworks, EarthGear, Earthlite, Golden Radio, Living Earth Crafts, Oakworks, Pisces Productions, Stronglite