Massage Therapy Online

Massage therapy programs vary state by state, but most programs require a unit of study plus hands-on experience to become licensed or certified. Although you can take classes for massage therapy online, many distance learning massage therapy programs also require hands on classes at least once a week. Some of the training you'll receive to become proficient as an LMT will include classes in:

• Diet and nutrition
• Muscle knowledge
• Stress reduction
• Breath work
• Physical therapy

Online Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) Certification

To become a licensed massage therapist, you can enroll in a post-secondary certification program online. You will need a high school diploma or GED to apply for admission into the program. It can also be helpful (but not required) if you have previously completed some science or business classes. You can complete many of the essential classes online, but keep in mind that hands-on experience will also be required. Students can enter a full or part-time program and may choose to focus on a specific massage specialty.

Although programs for massage therapy will vary widely by state, most programs require around 500 hours of study and experience. Massage therapy programs include subjects such as physiology, kinesiology, business management and ethics. Students must also complete a required number of hours of hands-on practice offline.

Many states require aspiring massage therapists to obtain certifications, licenses and pass exams. That's why the certificate or degree is usually received from a two year accredited massage therapist program. There may be a fee for the exam as well as a fee and requirements for license renewal. Check the legal requirements for the state in which you intend to practice for detailed information. A list of states that regulate massage therapy is available at American Massage Therapy Association