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Combine Multiple Massage Techniques with Yoga as a Myomassology Therapist

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

As you train for massage therapy careers, you may become interested in several different modalities. You might start with the basics of Swedish massage and learn other techniques to better help your clients manage pain. You can combine multiple massage techniques with yoga as a myomassology therapist.

What is Myomassology?

Myomassology is an integrative and comprehensive method of massage therapy developed by massage therapists who wanted to use an holistic approach to massage therapy that included bodywork, massage and even energy work. The technique involves various modalities of therapeutic massage, building on basic Swedish massage. As a myomassologist you can use reflexology, sports massage, craniosacral therapy, lymphatic massage, Thai yoga massage, reflexology, along with yoga and meditation to treat clients. The overall focus of myomassology is on the spiritual and mental aspect of the healing process. Detoxifying the body by encouraging proper nutrition may be another aspect of your work. You can also use techniques from alternative medicine, such as aromatherapy, herbology, Reiki, holistic care and Ayurvedic medicine, to supplement your practice.

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy, one of the many techniques employed in myomassology, involves minimal physical manipulation. The goal is to resolve any blocked or trapped forces in the body and mind. Using minor palpation and minimal, barely-there pressure of the fingers, the practitioner "reads" the body and then follows craniosacral techniques to heal. Craniosacral therapy is used to treat a range of ailments, including migraines, post-surgical pain, immune imbalances and periods of intense strain.

How Can I Train to Be a Myomassology Therapist?

You can work part or full-time while pursuing continued massage therapy education. By taking night and accelerated classes you could finish your training in as little as six months.

Where Would I Work as a Myomassology Therapist?

Similar to other certified massage therapists, you'd have the option of working in the environment you feel most comfortable in, be it a cruise chip, a physical therapy practice, a hospital, a spa, a salon or a sports rehabilitation clinic. Massage centers may hire professionals who can combine multiple massage techniques with yoga to help clients interested in a more comprehensive healing session. As a trainee in myomassology, you may draw on many of the yoga and stretching techniques commonly used in Thai massage therapy careers.

Traditional Chinese Massage Therapy Careers: Master Medicinal Chinese Massages

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

To enter traditional Chinese massage therapy careers, you need to learn acupressure massage therapy along with special stretching and kneading techniques.

The Basics of Traditional Chinese Massage

Tui Na, one type of traditional Chinese massage, is not simply a "massage" as the term is usually used in Western countries, but rather part of an overall healing approach drawing on principles from all of Chinese medicine. Tui Na practitioners focus on establishing a more harmonious flow of Qi (circulating life energy) throughout the body. Chinese bodywork can be split into several schools of therapeutic techniques. One is the Nei Gung method school, in which therapists work to revitalize the energy of clients through massage and energy generation exercises. The rolling method school targets muscle sprains and injuries by using soft tissue techniques. In the bone setting method school, therapists work to realign errors in the ligaments and musculoskeletal system. In acupressure massage therapy, practitioners use their hands and fingers on certain pressure points all over the body--the same used in traditional acupuncture. Acupuncture is a well-known Chinese pain treatment method, involving the insertion of needles at acupuncture points mapped all over the body. As you train in traditional Chinese massage, you may also learn how to use poultices and herbs. You may need to apply heated herbs to supplement the practice of Tui Na, in specific, established ways.

What Happens in a Traditional Chinese Massage Session

Similar to Western massage sessions, you'll be treating your patient either on a massage table or mat. The client typically wears no shoes and loose clothing which allows you to manipulate her limbs and body. As a trained practitioner, you'll make a thorough assessment of your client before deciding on a proper course of treatment. You may want to integrate traditional Chinese massage therapy with the massage therapy techniques you're already familiar with.

The Benefits of Practicing Traditional Chinese Massage Therapy

Chinese massage therapy is popular in the United States. As the treatment is focused on localized and specific types of pain, it's easily paired with other massage techniques, such as deep-tissue massage or Swedish massage. As a massage therapist, you may want to supplement and expand your techniques by offering nontraditional pressure relief treatments. Traditional Chinese massage therapy techniques can help individuals with a full range of ailments, including musculoskeletal conditions, cancer and headaches. You can expand your offerings with other alternative massage techniques, such as "four hand massage," which you can learn by training for tandem massage therapy careers.

Tandem Massage Therapy Careers: Working as a Team

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Tandem massage therapy careers offer a unique opportunity for teamwork in massage therapy. By training to work on a single person with another therapist, you can offer a unique treatment method, and experience, to your clients.

What Is Tandem Massage Therapy?

In tandem massage therapy, you work with another therapist to deliver a "four hands" massage in tandem, or together. You'll synchronize your work with your colleague to help tailor a unique massage experience, using a variety of massage techniques, including deep-tissue massage, Swedish massage and a number of other modalities. In tandem massage training, you'll learn to synchronize therapeutic modalities with another therapist. You'll use both synchronous and asynchronous stroke routines either separately or combined. If you aren't mirroring strokes with your colleague, you can work on specific muscle groups. You can also apply tandem stretching techniques.

Benefits of Tandem Massage for the Client

Many practitioners believe that tandem massage doubles the healing in one session, as two massage therapists are focused exclusively on one client. Furthermore, two trained therapists working on a single body can cover more muscle issues than a single therapist could.

Benefits of Tandem Massage Training for Therapists

If you practice tandem massage as a modality, you can spend more time with a client and expend less energy. This allows you to leave bodywork sessions more relaxed, which could help minimize the chances of burnout. It also helps you focus more intensely on a client's muscular issues. Tandem massage offers you the advantage of working with another therapist in what is typically solitary work, and can differentiate your business from other massage therapy practices. You'll learn your colleagues' preferred techniques, which could be different from your own, and you may be able to develop a collaborative working relationship. As you expand your massage therapy practice by gaining experience in tandem massage training, you might look into other modes of alternative massage therapy, such as acupressure massage therapy. This practice, targeting acupressure points, is the basis of traditional Chinese massage therapy careers.

Thai Massage Therapy Careers: Integrating Yoga Poses into Therapy

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Training for Thai massage therapy careers can help you introduce new techniques and modalities to your practice to reach more patients.

What is Thai Yoga Massage?

Thai yoga massage originates in Thailand and has a philosophical approach to the body and how we experience pain. Thai massage practitioners try to manipulate sen pathways, which are different channels within the body that connect and conduct sensations and substances. Thai massage can increase homeostasis, or the body's balance, of nervous, skeletal, lymphatic and respiratory systems, which are all interconnected. You can learn two styles of Thai massage: northern and southern. The southern style is centered around acupressure techniques, while northern styles are based on stretching. Both styles integrate yoga poses along with methods of stretching, rhythmic compression along energy channels and rocking. The movements are flowing and dynamic. During Thai massage, the client will either be seated on her side, lying on her back or lying on her stomach. You'll generally work on a thick and supportive cotton mat, although integrated Thai massage therapy can adapt the moves to massage table work. The client wears loose and comfortable clothing through the session.

What Would Thai Yoga Massage Training Consist Of?

You can enter a Thai massage training course at a trade school, university or massage school to master proper practice of northern and southern styles. Thai massage is intensive, and as a practitioner, you'll need to be extremely hands-on and physical with your client. You'll be kneeling, lunging, sitting and squatting. You apply pressure to limbs by palming, tapping and thumbing. You'll learn to manipulate the body of your client using your forearms, legs and feet. You can even fix or "lock" certain body parts as you massage limbs and arms with your feet.

Why Should I Learn Thai Massage?

Thai yoga massage is often integrated into traditional massage therapy practices and helps massage trainers diversify their techniques. Thai massage is comprehensive and attends to every facet of the body. A practitioner may crack the back and knuckles and pull the body into various positions, according to procedure. As a therapist, you can vary your traditional massage routine with deep-tissue massage and clinical massage techniques commonly used in neuromuscular massage therapy careers.

Hot and Cold Stone Massage Therapy Training: Expanding Your Skill Set

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

You can offer your patients a wider variety of massage techniques if you complete hot and cold stone massage therapy training. Accredited massage therapy schools offer certified courses in stone massage where you can earn your certification. With that, you can use your acquired methods for general relaxation therapy and to rehabilitate ailing bodies.

What is Stone Massage Therapy?

In stone massage therapy, you'll use heated or cold basalt stones to relax your patients' muscles, targeting key points on their bodies. The stones are never placed directly onto the skin. Instead, you'll use a sheet, cloth or towel to cover the bare skin. The basalt stones are typically placed on the back, but you can also use them on your client's palms, between his toes or on the back of his neck. You can alternate between hot and cold stones. Cold stones may also be used during trigger point work.

How Do I Prepare the Basalt Stones?

Basalt stones, generated through volcanic activity, are smooth and flat, and can retain an incredible amount of heat. This makes them ideal for stone massage. They release heat slowly into the muscles, relaxing, expanding and soothing them over the course of three to four minutes. For hot stone therapy, you'll place massage basalt stones in water and heat them between 110 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. You'll need to use a professional massage stone heater to properly heat stones. You can prepare cold stones by chilling them on ice or in the fridge.

How Will I Prepare My Client for Stone Massage Therapy?

You'll need to acquaint yourself with best preparation techniques for hot and cold stone massage. Hot stone massage is meant to be completed over a course of several weeks. Be cautious during a client's first stone massage therapy session to help acclimate him to the stones' heat and prevent injuries. Before beginning the treatment, determine if your client has any health issues, such as heart disease, epilepsy or a skin condition, that would make hot stone application unwise. You can then determine the best temperature for the basalt stones--and how long you'll leave them on the skin. Urge your clients to hydrate before, during and after their sessions to avoid dehydration accelerated by the hot stone application. During your training, you may learn other therapeutic techniques that prepare clients for intensive massage, such as anma massage therapy.

Myofascial Release Massage Therapy Careers: Working with Props

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Myofascial pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal disorder. If you're interested in helping patients with this form of chronic muscle pain, consider getting the specialized training you need to enter myofascial release massage therapy careers.

What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Mysofascial pain syndrome is caused by myofascial trigger points, which are located between the fascia tissue and muscle. This kind of pain is referred pain, meaning the trigger point causes pain in another part of the body. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects the wrist, may originate in a trigger elsewhere along the arm. Some symptoms used to diagnose myofascial pain syndrome include back, disc, head, jaw, hip, pelvic, leg, knee and foot pain, as well as frozen or stiff shoulders. These pains can persist over time and worsen without treatment. You'll need a comprehensive knowledge of trigger points to diagnose patients correctly, as myofascial pain can interact with fibromyalgia and other pain syndromes.

How Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome Treated?

Myofascial pain syndrome can be treated with medication, trigger point injections and physical therapy. Doctors may refer patients to myofascial trigger point therapists who specialize in myofascial release (deep tissue work). As a certified myofascial trigger point therapist, you can work in medical centers, rehabilitation and therapeutic clinics or hospitals. You can administer clinical massages and injections, as well as teach patients how to initiate myofascial release with foam rolls. The patient can roll their legs, thighs and back on top of a foam roll, targeting their own trigger points with self-treatment.

What Would I Learn Through Training?

In a myofascial release training program, you'll learn how to recognize symptoms of myofascial pain to become a trained and certified, myofascial trigger point therapist. You'll want to enter a recognized training program which prepares you for independent certification exams. In your training program, you'll learn: • Diagnosis of symptoms and posture analysis • Evaluation of the causes, and necessary correction of myofascial pain • Creation of a proper patient rehabilitation program. You'll need to master probing and examining a patient's muscles for any active myofascial trigger points. You will learn how to unlock a trigger point's contracted muscle with pressure using massage tools, such as "myoballs," or your fingers. You'll learn to administer trigger point injections, which involves inserting a needle in and around a trigger point to relieve pain and tension--a central technique of professionals in trigger point massage therapy careers.

Deactivate Pain-Inducing Trigger Points in Trigger Point Massage Therapy Careers

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

If you're interested in trigger point massage therapy careers, you'll need specialized training that builds on your knowledge of human anatomy and physiology gained in basic massage training courses.

What Does Trigger Point Massage Therapy Treat?

Many patients with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) turn to trigger point massage for relief. MSDs affect the nerves, tendons, muscles and joints. In 2004, more than 400,000 workers suffering from MSD took an average of 10 days away from work (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2005). Approximately 10 percent of the U.S. population (23 million people) suffers from one or more chronic MSDs (Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2002). As a therapist, you can help ease your clients' MSD-related pain so they don't have to miss work. Most chronic musculoskeletal disorders are accompanied by pain originating from trigger points (TrPs), which are areas of little neurological activity that cause pain in other areas of the body when stressed. These focal spots in the body's skeletal muscles can cause further issues with motor dysfunction and posture.

What Will I Learn in Trigger Point Massage Training?

Your goal as a trigger point massage therapist will be to help patients diagnose the sources of their pain and identify what is causing and perpetuating it. In training, you'll learn to deactivate trigger points all over the body using vibration, injections or firm manual pressure perpendicular to the muscle, eliciting local twitch responses. You'll also learn to help create a sustained patient rehabilitation plan to address your client's future pain management, as trigger points typically give rise to recurring pain.

Where Can I Get Trigger Point Massage Training?

You can learn trigger point therapy, which is not to be confused with acupressure or pressure point massage therapy, in clinical training workshops led by massage therapists who specialize in trigger therapy. If you're a chiropractor, nurse or doctor, you may want to master trigger point therapy as an alternative to prescribing medication and muscle relaxants, which may not always be effective for certain trigger point pains. You can specialize in treating myofascial pain, which is caused by myofascial trigger points found within the muscle and fascia tissue. This pain persists and worsens over time and has been linked to arm, neck, leg and lower back pain, along with headaches. With knowledge of such treatment, you may be prepared to enter myofascial release massage therapy careers.

Neuromuscular Massage Therapy Careers: Completing Advanced Training

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Of the various specialties in the massage therapy field, neuromuscular massage therapy careers incorporates complex techniques. You'll need to complete neuromuscular therapy (NMT) training to achieve certification.

What is Neuromuscular Massage Therapy (NMT)?

Neuromuscular massage practitioners must know how the musculoskeletal and nervous systems work, and use specific techniques to help relieve pain caused by neuromuscular disorders. The main goal of NMT is to create homeostasis, or natural balance, between the musculoskeletal system and the central nervous system through manipulation of the soft tissues. By applying stimuli through pressure on certain nerve centers, NMT can alleviate pain and restore the body's natural balance.

What Types of Disorders Does NMT Target?

Neuromuscular disorders involve dysfunction of the peripheral nervous system, the system of nerves and muscles, which can impact muscle function. Individuals who seek out NMT may be experiencing pain from postural distortion, whiplash or biomechanical dysfunction. Neuromuscular massage therapists often treat ischemia, a lack of blood flow, which can occur after injury. Muscles around an injured area tighten up to guard the injury. When the muscles tighten, blood flow constricts, causing ischemia, and associated ischemic pain, which causes muscles to constrict yet again, causing more chronic pain. NMT can help relieve these areas through a light pressure massage, in which the therapist uses her fingers or knuckles atop a muscle spasm area for about 10 to 20 seconds. This pressure relaxes the muscle, releasing lactic acid buildup and allows blood to flow. Additionally, NMT helps treat nerve compression, or when soft tissues or bone and cartilage structures can cause pressure to nerves. This condition can be incredibly painful, and NMT techniques help re-align vertebrae by treating the soft tissue all around.

Completing Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Training

Neuromuscular massage therapy training includes courses in anatomy, physiology and the various sources of pain. You can specialize in treating pain in specific regions, including the lumbar and pelvic areas, the neck, hip, leg, wrists, foot and thighs. After determining the origin of your patient's pain, such as nerve entrapment, certain trigger points or ischemic pain, you'll begin treatment. By applying pressure, you prompt the tissue's natural therapeutic responses and reduce toxicity levels. You'll be trained to apply the right level of pressure to muscle fibers, trigger points and tissues for appropriate amounts of time. You can alternate such focused trigger point therapy with more comprehensive deep-tissue massage, which you can practice exclusively in deep-tissue massage therapy careers.

Deep-Tissue Massage Therapy Careers: Relieving Localized Pain

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

If you're a recently certified massage therapist with an interest in relieving the localized pain of clients, from athletes to individuals experiencing high levels of stress, deep-tissue massage therapy careers may be of interest to you.

What is Deep-Tissue Massage?

When giving a deep-tissue massage treatment, you'll use forceful, slow strokes to target both deep and shallow layers of the fascia (connective tissue) and the muscles. You'll allow your fingers, thumbs and palms to "sink into" the muscles and tissue of the patient, partially bearing down on the back with your upper body weight, or down on the arm, but only when appropriate. The therapist uses one "guiding hand" during this massage to prevent the massaging hand (which may be cupped or extended) from rolling over the spine and to help give the kneading more focus.

Providing Clients With the Right Treatment

Deep tissue massage isn't deep pressure massage. Clients having this common misconception may ask for a deep-tissue massage, assuming that they'll receive a high-pressure, full-body muscle kneading, which is actually called deep pressure massage. Deep-tissue massage doesn't emphasize high pressure, but instead, a more focused kneading of knots and strain in all levels of muscle, including the most shallow layers. As a massage therapist, being clear about your services is important. You'll want to make sure your client understands that deep-tissue massage is not deep pressure massage before beginning.

What is Deep-Tissue Massage Used For?

As a massage therapist, you can use deep-tissue massage techniques to break up the build-up of scar tissue and reduce muscle tension. This technique is generally used to help individuals who have suffered muscle damage from injuries, and can help relieve pain caused by conditions that are related to lymphatic, circulatory and muscular-skeletal disorders. This method will help increase oxygen and blood flow, realign posture and break up knots in tissue. In addition to its benefits for the tissue and muscles, deep-tissue massage can help reduce stress and blood pressure. If you're interested in helping an even wider variety of potential clients, you may consider pursuing work in Swedish massage therapy careers.

Anma Massage Therapy Careers: Practicing Massage Techniques With Ancient Origins

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Anma massage therapy is a type of massage that originated in China, and was developed in Japan. As a massage therapist, you may use this oil-free massage technique in combination with traditional massage techniques, particularly as many Western spas and massage centers are seeking to integrate alternative medicine into their offerings.

Basic Aspects of Anma Massage Therapy

Anma massage therapy, or the use of massage in the context of anma therapy, involves manual manipulation through a combination of strokes and kneading movements. "An" is Japanese for pressure and kneading application, and "ma" means stroking. As a massage professional, you can use the method to complement your traditional and clinical massage techniques. This oil-free massage technique combines shiatsu--a well-known method involving application of pressure with the thumb--with seven other techniques. These include compression, grasping and kneading, hand music, strengthening, stroking and pressing, tapotement and vibration. The application targets the deep muscles, and can typically conducted through the client's clothes. This allows for deeper strokes than if the skin was manipulated directly.

Common Techniques in Anma Therapy

In Japan and the United States, massage practitioners must be licensed to practice anma therapy. If you choose to study this technique as a profession, you must train yourself in the tactile methods of the therapy. This will help your clients reduce their chronic muscle stiffness in the back, neck and shoulder muscles. As an anma massage therapist, you'll use a combination of the seven techniques as a specific procedure. For instance, you may start a session massaging the neck and shoulders, move down along the spine, then repeat in a cycle with each arm, hand, leg and foot, on the right and left side of the body. As a therapist, you'll also learn the more abstract and emotional benefits that anma therapy is traditionally meant to promote, including increased flow of life energy ("ki"), good health and happiness.

Benefits of Traditional Japanese Massage

Researchers have found that traditional anma therapy techniques can help to: • Decrease the Visual Analogue Scale, or VAS score, which quantifies stiffness of the muscles in the neck and shoulder • Reduce anxiety • Strengthen the immune system by increased secretory immunoglobulin levels. Massage therapists can continue their education to learn alternative and complementary methods that support their traditional training. For instance, they may combine multiple massage techniques with yoga as a myomassology therapist.

Swedish Massage Therapy Careers: Pairing Long and Rhythmic Strokes

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

If you're interested in pursuing Swedish massage therapy careers, you'll need to master the techniques developed by physiologist Henri Peter Ling in the early 1800s.

The Basics of a Swedish Massage

Swedish massage can be completed by itself or as a warm-up for deeper massages. You'll use massage oil through the less intense parts of the session. Throughout the session, you'll use a technique called "draping," only uncovering the area of the client's body that you're working on directly. A traditional Swedish massage consists of five basic strokes: • Cross-fiber strokes, also called "friction" • Effleurage, or long, gliding strokes, which are the most important technique in Swedish massage • Petrissage, or kneading • Shaking and vibration • Tapotement, or tapping rhythmically. When using these strokes, apply the most pressure near the heart, and use a lighter pressure on the extremities. You'll then alternate these techniques in a continuous, rhythmic fashion. You'll use your hands to knead, tap and vibrate the muscles with circular movements. This decreases the pressure on your client's muscles.

What is Effleurage?

Effleurage, from the French word "effleurer" (meaning "to stroke lightly"), involves the application of repeated, circular, long, gliding strokes with the palm of your hands at different speeds and pressures. Depending on your client's needs, you may use these strokes on the arms, back, chest, face, hands and legs. Effleurage can be either deep or superficial. You'll use superficial strokes to help your client become used to your touch. You may use one hand over the other, alternating lighter touch with deeper strokes to let the client relax. With deep effleurage, you apply a significant amount of pressure and follow the muscle tissue's direction, working to stretch and open up the muscles.

Benefits of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is taught in nearly all massage training programs, as it's one of the most commonly used techniques. The method can: • Improve circulation • Decrease pain and muscle tension • Lower the client's stress levels. Swedish massage may also bolster the immune system. Research has shown that adults who receive 45-minute Swedish massages saw an increase in their white blood cell and lymphocyte counts, both of which have been linked to the ability to defend against disease. Studies suggests that common Swedish massage strokes may increase an individual's overall health. If you're interested in using such massage to help people improve their strength and health, you may consider work in fitness and sports massage therapy careers.

Pursuing Massage as a Self-Employed or Independent Contractor Massage Therapist

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

As a self-employed or independent contractor massage therapist, the freedoms and advantages of running your own business are as relaxing and beneficiary as the profession itself. In 2008, about 57 percent of massage therapists were self-employed (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2010). Massage therapy careers have a favorable outlook, as the employment of massage therapists was predicted to increase by 19 percent between 2008 and 2018.

What You'll Need as an Independent Contractor

If you're on the move, catering to clients in their homes, you'll need to have your own massage products and equipment, including body lotions, face rest pads, massage tables, oils and creams and sheets.

Who Hires Independent Contractors Massage Therapists?

To be a successful self-employed massage therapist, you'll want to build a loyal (and lucrative) client base by developing sustained working relationships. Identifying your base will depend on the types of massage treatment you can offer. For example, if you specialize in clinical massage techniques, your main clients may be elderly. Seniors may prefer home visits if their medical massage needs are more personal, or if they're suffering from limited mobility. Americans aged 55 years or more are quickly becoming the largest percent of the U.S. population. Catering to this demographic may be a lucrative investment.

The Benefits of Being Self-Employed

Self-employed massage therapists have the highest earnings of all massage therapy professionals (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2010), particularly if they have a large client base. Nearly 57 percent of massage therapists in 2010 were self-employed. You name your price as a self-employed therapist, but you'll want to be informed of the different earning powers of clients in different neighborhoods. A young female professional in an expensive urban area and a retired, older businessman in the suburbs are likely to be attracted to different luxury services. With research, you'll be able to offer suitable prices for varying client bases. Working independently provides you with increased flexibility. You'll be able to set your own hours, make your own schedule or choose to temporarily seek employment in at a professional parlor. Spas and fitness centers may hire certified independent contractors instead of a full-time staff member. If you're business-minded and organized, you can set up your own massage therapy business, one of the common choices of independent contractors in this field. By choosing this career path, you'll be able to tailor your business to a specific clientele, and develop your facility with different massage techniques through continued education. For instance, you could complete hot and cold stone massage therapy training to grow your business.

Fitness and Sports Massage Therapy Careers: From College Campuses to Professional Teams

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

If you're interested in fitness and sports massage therapy careers, you can work with athletes in a variety of venues including sports medicine facilities.

Fitness and Sports Massage Therapy Training

Any licensed massage therapist can specialize in fitness and sports massage therapy, which integrates massage therapy and physical therapy techniques. Studies on sports massage have found that massage can help increase focus and prevent injuries--both essential for athletes. Fitness and sports massage courses focus on kinesiology, or the study of human movement. In courses, you may: • Familiarize yourself with common movement injuries for different types of athletes • Learn to analyze and assess injuries and rehabilitation massages needed to help athletes recoup • Master the details of muscle tissues (including fibers, types, and contraction), lactate clearance and delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) • Train in manual manipulation techniques, such as myofascial spreading, and active muscle lengthening. Most sports massage therapists continue to learn new approaches and techniques throughout their careers so they can provide their clients with the best treatment for their needs.

Working with Athletes

You can use your training to help a variety of athletes, including dancers, runners, baseball and basketball players, climbers and swimmers. Rehabilitating sports injuries is crucial to anyone that uses their muscles, limbs and joints instensly. You may also work with active individuals who aren't professional athletes. Depending on their athletic movements and career, you'll use different techniques and treatments, drawing on your knowledge of neuromusculature, human anatomy and kinesiology. For example, if you were to work with a dancer, you'd find that she exerts a tremendous amount of pressure on her peroneus muscles (in the foot) which can lead to injuries. To aid her, you may move her foot into inversion (turning her foot muscles inwards to correct eversion) or stretch the peroneal muscles to increase flexibility.

What to Expect in a Sports Massage Setting

Working with an athlete can raise the stakes for massage therapists, because an athlete's body is essential to his career. Maintaining his physical health through high-level conditioning is a key component of his work. You may work with your clients' coaches, athletic trainers and sports physiologists. As a massage therapist on staff at a sports medicine clinic, you'll need to utilize your critical thinking skills and be flexible in your treatment techniques. Many physical therapy practices specialize in accelerated rehabilitation through massage. You may collaborate with coworkers to refine your own assessment methods and techniques. You can also help athletes as a self-employed or independent contractor massage therapist.

Spa Massage Therapy Careers: A Career in Relaxation Massage

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Though the recession hit spas hard in 2009, the spa industry employed over 330,000 people in the spring of 2010 (International Spa Association, 2010). As aging baby-boomers find themselves with more free time and expendable income, spa massage therapy careers will continue to be in high demand.

What Does a Spa Massage Therapist Do?

Many people head to spas and spa resorts to relax and for a bit of luxury treatment. A spa treatment package can include aromatherapy, steam baths and facials, as well as massages, which are traditionally the most highly requested spa treatment. Spas usually have the equipment of massage centers, including: • Ergonomic chairs • Massage tables • Towels, lotions, oils and creams needed for any modality of massage. Some spas may have dry water massage beds and Vichy showers--which administer hydrotherapy with a pressurized shower head.

How Would I Prepare?

In the early 2000s, massage therapy schools didn't necessarily train their students for positions in spas. Now, many massage therapy schools offer courses dedicated to spa training due to the increased demand for spa treatments. To get a job as a spa massage therapist you need to: • Be open to continued education • Master the technical aspects of several massage modalities • Train in spa's "client-oriented" approach, received in on-the-job instruction. After passing the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), you could pursue work at a destination, daytime, cruise or medical spa. Many spas hire massage therapists as part of their staff, while others hire them as independent subcontractors.

What Could I Expect From the Spa Environment?

As the spa experience is typically built around relaxation and wellness, you need to balance meeting client demands with proper technique. For example, if you are trained in strict Ayurvedic massage techniques, but your spa client requests a variation on the treatment, you'll need to demonstrate flexibility. Spa massage work can be demanding. You may work in long shifts, administering 50 minute massages with only 10 minutes between sessions. You may also have to work on the weekends and evenings, when spas are busiest. Advantages include generous benefits--89 percent of spas offer some form of employee benefits, such as health insurance and vacation time (International Spa Association, 2010). As the spa massage therapy job outlook is favorable, you may want to learn about the benefits and varieties of massage and physical therapy.

Therapeutic Massage Therapy Careers: Clinical Applications of Massage

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Massage therapists can help individuals with chronic illnesses persistent pain from cancer and major surgeries in therapeutic massage therapy careers.

A Brief Overview

Therapeutic massage techniques can include several modalities of massage in addition to Swedish massage to give patients emotional and physical relaxation, including:

Clinical massage, which is generally used to relieve pain from a specific medical condition. Some therapists train specifically in lymphatic drainage massage to help patients with circulatory problems, for instance. Clinical massage is a broad category, comprised of specific techniques, including hydrotherapy, neuromuscular massage, trigger point therapy and myofascial release.
Orthopedic massage, also known as clinical orthopedic massage, is a subset of medical massage therapy. This therapeutic technique that helps treat musculoskeletal conditions. Orthopedic massage therapists are trained in proper palpation of muscles.

Widespread Benefits to Therapeutic Massages

Therapeutic massage therapy is highly specialized. Some of the major benefits for clients include circulation improvement, increased metabolism and enhancement of the function of joints and muscles. Orthopedic massage helps decrease pain and restore range of motion and use of the ligaments, tendons and muscles. Clinical massage, using soft tissue therapy, can help a range of conditions, including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, sciatica, tendonitis, trigger points and whiplash. Therapeutic and clinical massages are increasingly used in the hospital setting, as many seniors need targeted soft tissue therapy to help improve circulation.

Typical Coursework to Become a Therapeutic Massage Therapist

You can take therapeutic massage courses while training in a massage therapy program. You will learn basic massage techniques and special variations on clinical massage, such as medical massages, targeting metabolic or visceral issues in a hospital setting. As a therapist, you'll be expected to assess and treat clients' musculoskeletal issues, and will need a firm understanding of how the human body works and moves. You have to know how to apply therapeutic massage to certain bones and muscles safely. Clinical training demands a knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology, pathology and physiology. After completing your training program, you'll sit for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB), which will qualify you for a variety of hospital and nursing home massage therapy jobs. You could take advantage, moreover, of the increased intersection of professional massage and elder care or nursing home facilities.

Massage and Physical Therapy

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Anyone who suffers from chronic pain after injuries or illness can take advantage of both massage and physical therapy to improve their ability to move and reduce pain.

A Brief Overview of Physical Therapy

Fifty-four percent of Americans had massages for pain relief between 2005 and 2010--and massage and physical therapists are in high demand (American Massage Therapy Association, 2010). As a physical therapist you are a health care professional and you may: • Aid individuals with limited mobility due to illness or injury • Help the elderly and those with disabilities • Work with patients to create fitness programs and preventive plans.

Massage and Rehabilitation

As a physical therapist, a doctor will assess your clients to decide if massage treatment is appropriate. Using massage, you can help: • Boost clients' immune systems • Ease the side effects of major surgeries, chemotherapy and cancer • Lower blood pressure • Reduce anxiety • Relieve back pain • Treat migraines. You may be called upon for post-surgery massage, which can be vital. For instance, after cancer surgery, patients often have lymph nodes removed. This puts them at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) because clots begin to form in the blood stream where they shouldn't. Massage therapy helps increase circulation through their limbs and can prevent any further health complications.

Massage Techniques Used by Physical Therapists

Your clients may begin a rehabilitation program to help restore parts of their bodies to normal functioning after injuries and surgery. As part of their treatment, you may administer the following types of massage:

Deep tissue massage is used by physical therapists to relieve the muscle tension and chronic pain that originates in thickened connective tissue. Therapists apply firm pressure to both shallow and deep layers of tissue and muscles, breaking up scar tissue and lengthening contracted muscle fibers. The technique helps oxygen and blood circulate properly through the muscles.
Neuromuscular therapy addresses imbalances between the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system. Muscle pain patterns may be caused by the following: trigger points, nerve entrapment, distortions of posture or a block in blood supply (ischemia).
Sports massages can draw from trigger-point therapy, deep-tissue massage and Swedish massage. Anyone who uses their body rigorously can receive sports massage to target their injuries, chronic pain and limited motility.

Review the registered, licensed and certified massage therapist qualifications that you'll need to enter the physical therapy field.

Massage and Elder Care or Nursing Home Facilities

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

You can combine your interest in massage and elder care or nursing home facilities by pursuing therapeutic massage careers. Nursing homes and retirement centers routinely hire massage therapists with therapeutic massage training to help geriatric patients.

The Work of a Geriatric Massage Therapist

Massage therapy can greatly improve the physical and emotional well-being of the elderly. Seniors have special physical needs. Their physical activity is typically low, and they may, as a result, experience low or poor blood circulation. Preventive massage therapy can minimize this and have an energizing effect. A geriatric massage therapist can provide seniors relief from chronic pain and a variety of diseases that limit circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid, including arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and Parkinson's. As a geriatric massage therapist, you can work in spas or assisted living and nursing care facilities, and may also visit seniors in their homes for private sessions.

Using Massage to Reduce Stress

Geriatric massage therapists can improve the emotional health of seniors. Studies have shown that regular massage has marked psychological benefits for the elderly because human contact and touch can reduce feelings of stress and isolation. In particular, massage therapy can greatly improve the mental agitation and anxiety of patients with dementia, who respond well to tender touch massages and close human contact.

Types of Massage Used

In a typical therapy session, you may work with a senior for a half hour or more, stretching his legs, shoulders and arms, and gently kneading the muscles of the back and feet. Such "soft massages" can be applied anywhere over the body, reducing the patient's stiffness and improving his overall blood circulation and mobility. Geriatric therapists typically administer two types of massage: medical, (or clinical massage) and therapeutic massage. Therapeutic message is a general practice, covering the physical kneading of muscles to improve relaxation, pain management and relaxation. Geriatric therapists typically administer clinical massage, which focuses on specific areas of concern. For instance, a senior may receive lymphatic drainage and deep tissue massage to improve her circulation. She could receive other therapeutic massages that target specific medical conditions, or to rehabilitate injuries and severe muscle trauma. If you're interested in helping more active adults, you may want to consider spa massage therapy careers.

Registered, Licensed and Certified Massage Therapist Qualifications

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Laws regulating massage therapy vary greatly from state to state. If you're considering a career as a massage therapist, familiarize yourself with the basic guidelines to get the registered, licensed and certified massage therapist qualifications you'll need to fulfill to practice.

Necessary Licensing and Certification Examinations

In many states, you must take a specific licensing or certification exam before practicing as a massage therapist. You may need to take a state exam, or one of the following: • The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) • The National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB). Nationwide, massage therapy licensure boards determine which tests and certifications are acceptable in each state. You should closely examine the regulations in the state you wish to practice in before choosing a proper training program. In states that do no regulate the field, your municipality or town may require a business license.

Formal Training and Education

You can prepare for these examinations by pursuing a massage therapy degree through a formal education or training program. More than 1,500 schools in the U.S. offer certification, diploma and degree programs in massage therapy (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2010). In addition to certification, in some states you'll need to graduate from an approved training program to practice. You can enroll in physical therapy school or a vocational institute that offers an accredited massage therapy degree program. Accreditation indicates that a state board or accrediting agency, such as the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), has approved the training course.

An Overview of Massage Therapy Programs

In most massage therapy programs, you'll complete training in which you may: • Develop a facility with common massage therapies, including sports, deep tissue, Swedish, spa and therapeutic massages • Learn to master therapeutic techniques to reduce stress and tension in the muscles • Take courses to more fully understand relevant aspects of human physiology and anatomy. You will need to know how the body moves (kinesiology). Supervised training sessions are a key component of many degree, certificate and licensing programs. You'll learn how to manipulate muscles that are strained, stressed, injured or stiff from arthritis and ill-use. With a massage therapy certificate or degree, you may be eligible to work as a massage trainer, physical therapist assistant or even as a therapeutic instructor training other therapists. You could also pursue specializations, including Swedish, spa and therapeutic massage therapy careers.

Job Outlook: The Future Of the Hospitality Industry

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

The hospitality industry is booming. Despite fluctuations in the economy, Americans will always be looking for exciting new ways to enjoy their free time, whether it be with a vacation or by dining out, meaning that there will always been a need for professionals to provide these services in the future of the hospitality industry.

The Future Is Bright For the Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry is expected to add 17 percent more hospitality jobs in from 2004 to 2014 (U.S. Department of Labor, 2010). In all industries, job growth is expected at a rate of 14 percent nationwide. Both full-time careers in hospitality and part-time jobs are available, allowing for great flexibility for workers looking to join the field. The accommodation and food services sector of the hospitality industry is always a solid career choice as it makes up approximately 8 percent of all employment in the US. It is also an excellent opportunity for a second job, as two out of five workers in these positions are part-time (DOL, 2010).

Issues Affecting the Hospitality Industry Job Outlook

The industry must battle a stereotype that these careers are entirely low-wage and entry level with little chance of advancement.

Emerging Markets Offer Hospitality Careers Abroad

Economies are on the rise in Brazil, Russia, India and China, and the middle classes in these nations are looking to spend their growing disposable incomes. The countries, known collectively in the global economic landscape as the BRIC nations, boast 2.8 billion people, or 42 percent of the world's population (Ofcom, 2011). As a result, global travel, tourism and hospitality are growing and so are career opportunities. As these markets develop hospitality facilities, they will need experienced personnel to staff them. Some of this growth is spurred by sporting events that will soon put emerging markets on the global stage. For example, Brazil and Russia are slated to host soccer's World Cup and the Olympics in the next decade. These countries need to build the necessary athletic facilities, and they will need hospitality professionals to support the millions of people who plan to attend, such as hoteliers, restaurant workers and entertainment professional. If these markets continue to invest in airports, roads and supporting infrastructure, travel and tourism will continue to grow, leading to opportunities for careers in hotel management and other hospitality jobs abroad.

Running the Show: Jobs in Restaurant Management

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Jobs in restaurant management offer professionals a chance to oversee a variety of different working parts of food service, such as the kitchen, dining room, inventory and administrative functions. This career is ideal for people who love multitasking and hate working a traditional 9-to-5 office job. Restaurant management positions are expected to grow 5 percent through 2018. In 2008, food service managers held over 338,000 jobs (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2009).

Jobs in Restaurant Management: What Does the Career Entail?

A restaurant manager is in charge of the daily operations of an establishment, from the food service to staff members and administrative tasks. One main duty of the restaurant manager is to field and resolve complaints from customers regarding the service or the quality of their food. The other major duty of a restaurant manager is to tally cash and charge receipts, ensuring that they match the sales record. Administrative and employee management duties also fall on the restaurant manager. You must interview, hire, train and fire employees, as well as motivate staff members and retain top talent. A restaurant manager is also responsible for scheduling workers to make sure each shift is adequately covered. When things get crazy at the restaurant, a manager will often step in. Restaurant managers should be prepared for long work hours, often 12 to 15 per day. Most managers work 50 or more hours per week (BLS, 2009).

Education for Management: How Do I Become a Restaurant Manager?

It is not necessary for you to hold a bachelor's degree to be a restaurant manager, although most establishments prefer managers to have some post-secondary education. More than 1,000 colleges and universities offer four-year programs in restaurant and hospitality management (BLS, 2009). Most companies have their own training programs for potential managers that combine classroom instruction and on-the-job experience. Managers in training will learn about food preparation, nutrition, proper sanitation, company policies, record-keeping, personnel management and other essential skills.

Management Careers: How Much Money Will I Make?

The median annual salary for restaurant managers was $46,320 in May 2008, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $76,940. Food service managers who worked in traveler accommodation earned the highest median salaries at $54,710 (BLS, 2009). Restaurant managers often receive health and retirement benefits. Some people may enjoy working in a restaurant but don't want the added responsibility of a management position. They may be interested in pursuing the life of a mixologist, creating delicious cocktails and serving drinks to customers.

The Challenges of the Hospitality Industry: The Pros and Cons of Working in Customer Relations

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Careers in customer relations are not easy, but they can be personally, professionally and financially rewarding. Weigh the pros and the cons of the industry for yourself before you get involved. At many levels of customer relations, you will be on your feet for long shifts, required to do multiple things at once and keep a good attitude throughout.

Necessary Education for Customer Relations Careers

Careers in customer relations vary in the level of education needed to perform job duties. Many service industry jobs, like hostessing or housekeeping are entry-level careers that require little or no previous training. Careers such as waiting tables or bartending often require on-the-job experience to be considered for positions, while jobs in visitor information or hotel and restaurant management usually demand a more extensive level of education. The skills you obtain from working in the hospitality industry can be applicable to almost any other job and every facet of your daily life. You learn to think quickly, make decisions at the drop of a hat and balance a very demanding workload.

When Customers and Clients Are Demanding, or Worse

No matter how friendly and professional you are, you are going to encounter difficult, angry or rude customers, often on a daily basis in customer relations. It is important that you don't let their negativity get to you because it may affect the service that you provide other guests. When you encounter a demanding or angry customer, make sure that you remain calm and confident. Many people in the service industry have a few responses that they have memorized to help them in these predicaments. Remember, you can't control a situation if you don't have control over yourself. If you're really in a bind, suggest to the guest that they speak to your manager or someone directly above you. Employees at all levels of the chain of command are trained to deal with these situations.

How Do I Know If I Have What It Takes?

The hospitality industry is a demanding field, but many people thrive in these careers. In order to be successful in these positions, you must like people and be a hard worker. You must also be willing to sacrifice. Many hospitality jobs, like working as a waiter and waitress, require that you work nights, weekends and holidays. While many other jobs slow down during these times, the hospitality industry is booming.

Bringing the Hospitality Home: Careers In Catering

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Not all culinary careers keep you confined to the kitchen. Careers in catering allow you to take your cooking, planning and serving skills to a variety of different venues and events.

Catering Careers: Getting Started

For aspiring catering chefs and cooks, a degree or certificate from a culinary program is highly recommended. In addition to chefs and cooks, there are other positions available within a catering company. Catering companies often employ catering sales managers, marketing managers, event planners, catering coordinators, delivery drivers and banquet servers. For the entry-level positions, a high school diploma and some experience is usually sufficient. For manager and coordinator positions, college degrees in public relations, marketing, business and hotel management or a related field are helpful. Many businesses offer catering services, so your career could take you to a number of different places. In addition to independent catering companies, hotels and restaurants often hire caterers for casual and corporate events. Two-thirds of full-service restaurants and 80 percent of fine dining establishments offer catering or banquet services (HCareers, 2009). Some universities even have entire catering programs.

A Day in the Life: Typical Duties of Catering Professionals

The responsibilities of a caterer vary depending on the event, position and other factors from job to job. You may not be a part of each operation directly, but a catering event usually starts with the set up. If your company caters events outside of its location, you must transport the food, dishware, serving plates and dishes, glassware and other necessities. Once the event has been set up and the guests arrive, food service will begin. If the event is a buffet-style affair, catering staff is responsible for keeping food stocked and cleaning off tables. Other events feature banquet servers. When the event is over, the catering company must clean up the venue. As a caterer, be prepared to work nights, weekends, mornings or whatever schedule your customers and company demand.

Catering Event Management: Owning Your Own Catering Company

Running a catering company is much like running a restaurant or any other type of venture. To better prepare yourself, business education classes are helpful. The stronger your business skills, the better chance you catering company has to succeed. As a business owner, you have the option to tailor your catering company to a certain cuisine or type of event. You can also keep your options open, offering services for a variety of events. Much like the career path of a chef, your career in catering could take many possible turns.

The Face of the Restaurant: Working as a Waiter and Waitress

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

Working as a waiter and waitress can sometimes be a stressful and challenging experience, but the job can be both financially and professionally rewarding. Hospitality jobs are not for everyone, but if you can multi-task, react quickly and love working with people, a restaurant career may be for you.

Service Industry Education: How Do I Become a Waiter?

Much of the career training necessary to become a waiter happens on the job, so to pursue your serving career, you often must start at the bottom. Restaurants with lower priced menus and more casual fare will often hire waiters and waitresses with no experience. After you gain serving experience, you can levy that into a job with a better restaurant, higher price tags and, hopefully, better tips. Another way into a waiter or waitress position is to start a job as a host, hostess, busser or food runner. These careers assist the servers in the restaurant and work closely with the kitchen. You can learn a great deal about the service industry in these jobs, which can lead to a chance to be a waiter.

The Financial Perks and Pitfalls Of Working as a Waiter and Waitress

Nationwide, the average hourly wage of waiters and waitresses was $8.06, but this number will vary immensely among businesses (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2009). Many people who work as servers rely mainly on tips for their income. Some enjoy that their pay is directly tied to their job performance. Instead of making a set salary, you are often rewarded for providing exceptional service. At the same time, this source of income comes with risks, like when customers tip poorly, run out on their bill or simply forget to pay. Some shifts might be incredibly profitable, while others are dismal for whatever reason.

Working as a Waiter and Waitress: Other Details of the Job

Working in food service means you will likely have many interactions with customers. Whether you are a host, server, bartender, manager or another member of an establishment's staff, your job centers around pleasing guests. Sometimes, customers are a joy to work with. Other times, you may encounter demanding, difficult or downright rude guests. The key to success in all service industry jobs, like waiting tables or working in visitor information, is to be able to serve every guest to the best of your ability, regardless of their attitude. You must learn to take the good with the bad and not let negative energy affect your job performance.

Service Industry Chemistry: The Life of a Mixologist

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

The life of a mixologist is filled with challenges and perks. A career as a bartender can be financially rewarding, but a job behind a bar comes with great responsibility. You must know how to make hundreds to thousands of different drinks, and serve customers quickly in a high-volume environment. Bartenders made up 3.9 percent of food service employees in 2008, boasting over 373,000 workers nationwide. The occupation is expected to grow 6.2 percent from 2008 to 2018 (U.S. Department of Labor, 2009).

How Do I Begin Bartending?

Without bartending experience, it is unlikely that you will land a job as a bartender. You can start by getting into the business as a server, bar-back or cocktail server. Restaurant and cocktail servers learn to sell alcoholic beverages to customers, while bar-backs assist bartenders behind the bar. Both experiences offer a stepping stone to a career as a mixologist. The other possible route is to attend bartending school. These training sessions can cost close to $1,000 and provide you with essential knowledge, but this training doesn't guarantee you a job in the industry. Many bars and restaurants require that you become certified by Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS) before tending bar. This program teaches bartenders about the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol to help prevent drunk driving, underage drinking and excessive intoxication.

The Life of a Mixologist: A Typical Day on the Job

You job as a bartender is part social and part sales. You must keep guests at your bar happy, engage them in conversation and treat your regular customers exceptionally well, but you are also selling a product. The more you sell, the more tips you are likely to make. If you are working at a bar in a restaurant, you must also fill drink orders for waiters and waitresses in a timely fashion. Bartending can also be a physically demanding job. You will be moving quickly in an environment where wet, slippery floors are common. You will also be on your feet for most of your shift.

Alternative Mixologist Careers: Where Can My Bartending Experience Take Me?

Some bartenders end up working for liquor companies or restaurants, conjuring up innovative new cocktail mixes and other alcoholic creations. Bartenders have also been known to transition to the sales or management side of the business, and others are intrigued by the science of beer, becoming master brewers. Your experience behind the bar could eventually lead you to many profitable and interesting careers in the hospitality industry.

Working Behind the Scenes: The Career Path of a Chef

Education Editor — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:23:00 GMT

The career path of a chef often begins at a culinary arts school and leads up through the ranks of the kitchen. Eventually, after many years of on-the-job training, you could earn a spot as an executive chef.

Starting Your Career With Culinary Arts School

Although many basic cooking skills can be taught on the job, consider pursuing a higher education to improve your potential rank and salary. Following your completion of high school, look for colleges that offer culinary degrees or schools that specialize solely in the culinary arts. These programs will teach you how to prepare food through baking, broiling and other means. You will learn how to make pastries, care for kitchen equipment, adhere to health and sanitation standards, manage costs, purchase food and plan menus. Culinary arts schools may also instruct students in general management skills, such as accounting, budgeting and employee management. With a degree or certificate in culinary arts, you may be able to start a career in a kitchen without spending time in a less-skilled job. You will also have a better chance of landing a job with a high-end hotel or a fine-dining restaurant.

The Career Path of a Chef: Work Your Way Up to Executive Chef in a Professional Kitchen

As you pursue a career as a professional cook, remember that you will not become an executive chef overnight. You may begin in a commis chef position, which is a junior, or apprentice chef. The next step up is to chef de partie, or line cook. Line cooks are responsible for one aspect of the kitchen, such as fried foods or desserts. After the line cook comes the sous chef, or the chief assistant to the executive chef. After you have proven yourself as a sous chef, opportunities may arise to become an executive chef.

What Are the Average Salaries Of Chefs?

The average salary for executive chefs nationwide in April 2011 was $53,000, while the average executive sous chef salary was $49,000 and the average sous chef salary was $43,000 (Indeed, 2011). These figures vary depending on the restaurant you are affiliated with and the state or city in which you work. Salaries are expected to grow for executive chefs and other members of the restaurant business, as the future of the hospitality industry will experience an 8 percent job growth rate from 2008 to 2018 (U.S. Department of Labor, 2009).