In the last ten years, MassageKing.com has sold thousands and thousands of massage tables. We have found that the questions people ask when deciding which massage table to purchase remain the same. Some questions are real legitimate objective concerns, and others are more of a personal preference. In this article, we will address the personal feelings, thoughts, preferences, and considerations when deciding on which massage table works best for your needs.

What color should my massage table be?

In order to determine how important the color of your massage table is, ask yourself two questions. First, will anyone actually see the color of the vinyl on my massage table? Second, will I now or in the future have any accessories, such as a massage table bolster pillow, that I should try to match the color with? Although most people end up covering their massage table with a sheet set or a fleece pad, some people do not. It is far easier to wipe the vinyl down than it is to try and wash massage oil or cremes out of a sheet set. On the other hand, some people find that the vinyl is too cold to lie on directly, or that the table becomes to slippery for comfort when massage oil is applied during a massage. You may find that a sheet set makes the table feel softer and therefore increases client satisfaction, and a fleece pad gives more padding to the foam on your massage table. So, if you tend to not cover your table then you may want to consider how the color of the vinyl will compliment the colors in the room where you will be giving massages. Finally, we do recommend that when ever you purchase an accessory for your massage table that you should try to buy the same brand of bolster pillow, arm rest, head rest or table extension. That way you can be sure that the colors of the two items will match. We all know that while different colors can match together nicely, two items that are only slightly different in color can clash. Again, this concern is irrelevant if your massage table will be covered.

I want a light weight massage table.

Of course you do, but since a light weight aluminum frame massage table has different characteristics than one made of wood, ask yourself this question first: Is a light weight massage table going to be best in filling the main needs I have? If one of your main needs in a massage table is ease of portability and most of your sessions will be at your client's location, then absolutely seriously consider a light weight aluminum frame massage table. They do cost more, and the top of the table will not be as firm or rigid for deep tissue work because true light weight tables have deck made out of nylon webbing instead of wood, but they simply cannot be beat when it comes to having to carry around a massage table on your shoulder. The difference in weight can be dramatic. Often people who come into our show room at MassageKing.com are surprised at how much lighter these tables can be. Their facial expression actually changes to one of wonder and amazement when they pick one up for the first time.

Who makes the best massage tables?

Naturally, each massage table manufacturer will tell you that they make the best table, or the best table for the price. Professional massage table manufacturers spend a lot of time, money, and effort in designing a premium, top quality product. They are very proud of their tables, and they should be. Although they are all different in some respect, after years of improvements massage tables today are very similar in most major features and design concepts, and differ only slightly in small nuances and customizations. Each manufacturer is trying to make the best table possible, and the truth is they are all good (speaking of professional tables only, see the section titled “Is a cheap massage table just as good”). Generally speaking, the decision of who makes best massage table comes down to a personal preference.

Is it safe to buy a used massage table?

Just like any other profession, many massage therapists find after a while that they are ready to do something else, or that their interests change. When this happens, they will sometimes sell their massage table. If their table is a reputable brand, has no cracks in the frame, and the vinyl does not have any tears (although small ones may be okay depending on where it is), purchasing a used massage table is perfectly fine, and a good way to save some money. Just make sure you reserve the right to inspect the table before agreeing to buy it.

Where is the best place to buy a massage table?

Contrary to what some people may believe, purchasing your massage table directly from the table manufacturer is NOT recommended. While some massage table manufacturers do sell directly to the public, they often do so at full MSRP. On the other hand, retailers, resellers and distributors such as MassageKing.com are allowed to sell, with some restrictions, massage tables at a discounted price. You might even get a better deal if you can find a massage table package that combines several items together for a discounted price, or even with free shipping. In addition, by purchasing from an independent dealer you are able to get an unbiased opinion as to which massage table will be best for your needs. Finally, we highly recommend that if at all possible that you go to a place such as MassageKing.com and visit their showroom, try out different massage tables, see the different features first hand, and if your lucky, you'll even get to try out a few samples of massage oils and cremes.

This article was written by Brian Leleux and is provided as a courtesy by MassageKing.com for informational purposes to help our customers and clients become more informed.

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