There’s no shortage of massage home-study courses online. A quick Internet search of massage home-study courses returns a host of results for you to choose from in your educational endeavors.
But how do you know which one is the best? Not all home-study courses are created equal.
Technology in recent years has advanced the offerings of home-study courses. One of the biggest advantages of massage home-study courses is that they are offered from a variety of top experts in their respective fields, giving the student the advantage in deciding which is best for you.
When it comes to making the right choice, do your research and don’t fall for just fancy packaging. You want to get the most of your experience.
In some cases, choosing the big name experts aren’t always the way to go. And by doing a little research into the instructor’s background and the nature of the programs, you can make an informed decision in your continuing education needs.
This article is the second of two articles that provides you with helpful questions to ask about home-tudy instructors and their courses before you purchase continuing education products. Read Part 1 here.
Scientifically supported?
When selecting a home-study course to purchase, make sure the curriculum is based on the latest scientific research available.
The best massage therapy experts and instructors will be well-versed in the latest studies and techniques, which should be included in their courses. This way, students receive the most comprehensive educational experience.
Checking up on any evidence of an instructor’s research knowledge is simple and can be found by reading through published articles by the instructor in massage trade journals and industry-related publications. Within those articles, the instructor should include references to scientific studies on which they base their own techniques.
Peer respect?
Massage therapy may be a competitive field, but industry leaders and innovators in massage will praise their peers for their talented work. Often, experts in the massage field will also work together on special projects.
Keep and eye out for positive references by a massage therapist or other bodywork experts. It is usually an indication that they have the respect of their peers.
Good work and innovative ideas also don’t go unnoticed by professional massage organizations, such as the American Massage Therapy Association, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals and the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. These organizations give awards and will often use these experts as speakers at trade shows and conventions.
Course range: basic to advanced?
There are many courses out there to choose from, but the most valuable offer a variety of courses that range from basic to advance.
It’s not hard to find a basic course through online searching. Companies galore offer these. But to become more advanced in your techniques, a massage therapist will need continuing education past the basic level to gain that knowledge.
The more intensive programs cover more details into bodywork techniques and more complex aspects of treatment, which only benefits the student.