Mobile Massage Therapists: Take the Stress out of Outcalls
Forgetting accessories like an oil holster can make mobile massage stressful.
Here’s another stressful scenario. You arrive at the client’s home for a massage appointment and make several trips up and down a flight of steps to carry in all of your equipment. By the time you’re ready to start the massage, your muscles are aching and your energy is fading. You pour yourself into the session and leave exhausted after lugging all of your equipment back to the car.
Outcall appointments can be stressful and exhausting. Without the convenience of a permanent location, certain factors affecting the massage may be out of your control. But with a little organization and the convenience of accessories designed for the mobile therapist, you can do all that is in your power to make each appointment as successful as possible.
The Convenience of Mobile Massage Equipment
Take the strain off your back with a massage table cart.
One of the most practical and back-saving accessories for outcalls is a rolling table cart. A portable massage table, no matter how lightweight, is a heavy item to transport, and the longer you carry it, the heavier it feels. Save your energy for the massage by rolling your table with a cart. You still have to do a certain amount of lifting, but the cart will ease the overall strain on your body.
A high quality massage table bag can also reduce the strain on your body. A deluxe carry case includes a thickly padded shoulder strap for superior comfort, durable fabric and stitching, and extra padding on the bottom to protect your table from bumps and minor impacts. One of the biggest benefits of a deluxe case is that you can keep all of your main supplies in one bag, with large pockets for a massage bolster, linens, oils, and other accessories on the outside of the case.
If you’re still struggling under the weight of your table, consider purchasing a lightweight aluminum massage table. Aluminum is a lighter material than wood, which makes it perfect for an outcall table. Depending on your size and strength, you may be able to handle a heavier table, but for therapists who prefer the lightest weight possible, aluminum is the way to go.
Organizing Your Mobile Massage Equipment
Even though you can’t always control your environment, there are steps you can take to ensure a relaxing experience for both you and your client. One idea is to make a list of supplies you need for outcalls. Check off your list before each visit. You’ll be less likely to forget something important.
Another idea is to keep all of your outcall supplies together in one place. If you do both office sessions and on-site massage, consider keeping one bottle of massage oil in the office and one in your outcall bag. Store your outcall supplies in your vehicle if possible, except for lubricants, which should be stored in a temperature-controlled environment. Keep samples of lube in your vehicle, just in case you forget to pack some.
Use the following checklist as a starting point for your own list of items to remember. Add or subtract items as needed.
List of Items for Outcalls:
- Massage table
- Bolster pillows
- Linens (sheets, face cradle covers, light blanket)
- Oils, lotions, or creams
- Product holster
- Towels
- Folding massage stool
- CD or MP3 player and speakers
- Small watch or clock
- Hand sanitizer
- Bottle of water
- Intake forms
- Business cards, brochures, and gift certificates
- Appointment book
- Pen and paper
- Nail clippers and file
If you want to make your outcalls extra special, consider including a few of the items in the list below. Your clients will appreciate these luxury add-ons.
Optional Items:
- Massage table warmer pad
- Oil warmer
- Essential oils
- Hot stones
- Small crock pot for hot towels
- Scented candles and warmer
As a mobile therapist, you deal with a constantly changing work environment every day. Use these tips to reduce the stress of outcalls and ensure a relaxing home massage session for both you and your client.
