10 Alternative Careers for Massage Therapists to Consider!

It’s no secret that being a massage therapist is both physically and mentally demanding.

A lot of massage therapists burn out, and as a career, it has a fairly short lifespan on average.

The good news, however, is that you have an awesome skill set that can transfer over to many other jobs.

If you’re at the point where you’re considering changing careers, here are alternative careers for massage therapists:

10 Alternative Careers for Massage Therapists

1. Sports Physiotherapist

If you’re interested in working with athletes, then a career as a sports physiotherapist could be a good fit for you.

You’ll need to complete a degree in physiotherapy, but once you’re qualified, you can work with all sorts of athletes, helping them to prevent injuries and recover from accidents.

Working as a sports physiotherapist is a rewarding career and a lot of the skills learned as a massage therapist transfer over nicely.

Related – 10 benefits of being a massage therapist explained!

2. Reflexologist

Reflexology is a therapy that involves massaging the feet and hands to promote relaxation and healing in other parts of the body.

It’s a popular therapy that is said to have many health benefits, and it’s a great career for those who want to help others feel better.

To become a reflexologist, you’ll need to complete a short course, but the skills you learned as a massage therapist will definitely come in handy.

3. Beauty Therapist

If you’re interested in working in the beauty industry, then becoming a beauty therapist could be a great option.

As a beauty therapist, you’ll be responsible for providing treatments like facials, massages, and manicures/pedicures.

You might not use all of your massage skills in this career, but it’s a great way to use your knowledge of the human body and how to relax people.

Plus, it’s a career that is always in demand!

4. Aromatherapist

Aromatherapy is a therapy that uses essential oils to promote relaxation and healing.

It’s a popular treatment that can be used to help with all sorts of conditions, both physical and mental.

If you’re interested in working as an aromatherapist, you’ll need to complete a short course to learn about the different oils and how to use them safely.

But, once you’re qualified, you can start your own business or work in a spa or clinic either complimenting your massage therapy or as a stand-alone career.

5. Esthetician

An esthetician is a skin care specialist who provides treatments like facials, waxing, and makeup application.

If you’re interested in working in the beauty industry but don’t want to do massage, then becoming an esthetician could be a good option for you.

You’ll need to complete a short course to learn about the different treatments and how to do them properly.

But, once you’re qualified, you can start your own business or work in a salon or spa just as you would have as a massage therapist.

It’s a great way to stay involved in a shoulder industry, and it’s also a skill set that is always in demand.

6. Massage Therapist Instructor

If you love being a massage therapist but are looking for a less demanding career, then teaching could be a great option.

You can work as an instructor at a massage therapy school, teaching future students the skills and knowledge that you’ve learned over the years.

It’s a great way to stay involved in the industry and share your passion with others.

To become an instructor, you’ll need to have several years of experience as a massage therapist and complete a teaching course.

7. Yoga Instructor

Yoga is a popular exercise that also has many health benefits, and it’s a great way to relax the mind and body.

If you’re interested in teaching yoga, then you’ll need to complete a yoga teacher training course.

But, once you’re qualified, you can start your own business or work in a gym or studio.

Yoga instructors usually have a background in fitness or another exercise discipline, so your massage therapy training will definitely come in handy.

8. Pilates Instructor

Pilates is another popular exercise that has many health benefits, and it’s a great way to tone the body and improve flexibility.

If you’re interested in teaching Pilates, then you’ll need to complete a Pilates teacher training course.

But, once you’re qualified, you can start your own business or work for a company and get back to helping people improve their fitness and wellbeing.

9. Veterinary Technician

If you love working with animals, then becoming a veterinary technician could be a great option for you.

As a veterinary technician, you’ll be responsible for assisting veterinarians with animal care and treatment.

You won’t directly use your massage skills in this job, but your knowledge of anatomy and physiology will definitely come in handy.

Related – How demanding is it being a massage therapist physically?

10. Nurse

Nurses are responsible for providing medical care to patients in hospitals and clinics.

If you’re interested in working as a nurse, you’ll need to complete a nursing program.

Nurses often have a background in health science or another medical field, so your massage therapy training will be an asset.

However, becoming a nurse requires a lot of dedication and hard work. It’s not a decision to be made lightly.

These are just a few of the many alternative careers for massage therapists.

So, if you’re looking for a change or are just starting out in the field, don’t limit yourself to working as a massage therapist.

There are plenty of other options out there. Just do your research and find the one that’s right for you and never, ever be afraid to embark on a new career and learn new skills.

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Header Photo by Zen Bear Yoga on Unsplash