Buying a Massage Table
10 Points to Consider

1. Strength and Stability
What could be worse than having a table collapse in the middle of a session? You want to be sure to choose a table that is strong and stable. Construction elements to consider include: Whether the table is reinforced to prevent swaying when a large client is on it or when deep pressure is applied; and the materials used to make the table (low-quality vs. high-quality aluminum or select-grade hardwoods). Also consider the table's weight rating: You want one that can withstand at least 500 pounds of downward applied force.

2. The Type of Massage/Bodywork You Do
There are a variety of massage tables on the market to match specialized massage/bodywork techniques: Some have breast recesses and adjustable abdominal support for pregnancy massage; others are built with a thicker plywood top and an inverted truss to provide extra support in the middle of the table for sports massage; some tables can lie flat on the floor for shiatsu or other techniques that require the client to be close to the ground; and still others feature adjustable legs for ease in performing reflexology and spa treatments. Before making your purchase, think about the type of massage you offer now—and what you might want to offer in the future.

3. Ergonomics for the Practitioner
Select a table that offers ease of movement. Ideally, the table will be wide enough to accommodate clients comfortably, yet narrow enough and at the appropriate height to ensure good body mechanics. Make sure you can step in close enough to direct your body weight through relaxed shoulders down through your hands. If your clients tend to be tall and large, you may want a wider table, side arms, or a footrest. Some table models feature, as extra accessories, end and side extensions that will lengthen the table by 10 to 12 inches and widen it by six to eight inches for large, wide clients. (Keep in mind that the larger the table, the more it will weigh.) If your session room is small, consider a table with rounded corners. Make sure the table's height is adjustable or can be custom built to fit your height. If your practice is mobile, you will set up and take down your table hundreds, if not thousands, of times over the length of time you own it, so find out what's involved in these processes.

4. Client Comfort
No client wants to return to a hard, unpadded table, so don't skimp on foam. The foam on your table will not only determine your clients' comfort level but will also affect the wear and appearance of your table. If you purchase a table with lightweight foam you may be sacrificing long-term quality, as lightweight foam does not hold up over time. Denser and/or layered foam has more substance between air pockets, meaning it will take longer to break down.

5. Weight
You don't want to expend so much energy carrying your table that you don't have enough strength and endurance left for your clients! If you have a mobile practice or travel with your table for continuing-education classes, consider purchasing a light table. Most bodyworkers feel that the weight range to work within for maximum carrying capacity is between 22 and 30 pounds. Tables with aluminum legs will be a few pounds lighter than wooden-leg tables. Using a table cart is an option, but also an extra hassle when setting up or traveling by airplane.

6. Accessories
Consider buying a table that can expand with your practice. For example, some tables have holes at both ends for adding accessories like adjustable headrests and armrests.

7. Value for Price
Value is simply the combination of the overall product quality and the retail price. Massage-table packages can range in price from under $250 to well over $700, so what you can realistically afford should be factored into your decision. Some table companies offer package deals and student discounts. The point to really consider is whether the table is worth the money you're spending. On the other hand, don't purchase the least-expensive table you can find just because it's the least expensive, because it could very well be made with flimsy material that won't hold up over time or provide you with any resale value.

8. Durability and Re-sale Value
Always purchase equipment that is well built and will last. Ask the manufacturer what design features and methodologies they employ when building their equipment to ensure that your purchase is wise and the table has lasting value. Cheaper tables usually cost less because they're made with cheaper materials, often built overseas with cheap labor. Massage tables should be durable and fairly easy to repair. The covering should be supple and easy to clean. A quality table should last as long as your career.

9. The Environment
You may prefer to buy from an environmentally conscious table manufacturer, one that uses no rainforest-depleting tropical hardwoods. The wood finishes and glues should be non-toxic, water-based lacquers and the foams should not contain chlorofluorocarbons. Some companies even recycle their wood shavings.

10. Warranty and Customer Service
If you're purchasing a good quality table, the company you buy it from should offer you a warranty. Tables that are skillfully crafted from high quality materials, and are designed and tested to withstand the rigors of professional use, most often come with a lifetime warranty. The warranty should offer to repair or replace the table for as long as you own it.

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 table back? Who pays for shipping back to the factory if your table needs repair?) The customer-service department should be able to answer your questions about all the items in this article. Pay attention to how you're treated when shopping for a table these are the same people you'll be dealing with if a problem comes up.

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