How to choose a massage table? Choosing a massage table: each according to needs Folding massage table which is better

The work of a massage therapist is often associated with home visits to the patient. In this regard, the specialist has to carry a massage table with you, which is pretty hard. In order to facilitate this task, you should give preference to a portable table and be very careful about the question of how to choose a folding massage table.

Types of tables for massage

In addition to the fact that massage tables are stationary and portable, they are also classified by the number of sections:

• single-section are a classic monolithic design;
• two-section have a device in the form of an adjustable headrest for all kinds of cosmetic and SPA procedures;
• three-section tables also have a bifurcated tabletop, which gives even more opportunities for holding various kinds massage.

What else you need to know before buying a massage table - evaluation criteria

If you are determined to buy portable table for massage, when choosing, you need to take into account a lot of parameters, especially if the purpose of the purchase is to provide professional massage services, when the equipment will be intensively used and folded and unfolded many times.

The weight. If you are thinking about how to choose a massage table, then first of all pay attention to its weight. After all, you will often have to carry it with you, and sometimes to the nth floor. Usually these tables are assembled are a suitcase, the weight of which does not exceed 20-25 kg (these are often steel tables). Try to get a table that will weigh at a minimum - no more than 15 kg. For example, duralumin devices weigh around 10 kg, and carbon fiber devices weigh even less - up to 7 kg.

height and stability. Despite the lightness, the table must be stable and reliable. Self-adjusting legs will be useful, which provide excellent stability even on uneven surfaces. Height adjustment is also required. The range of the adjustable height level should be from 65 to 90 cm. Then you will be able to correctly adjust the position of the table for your height and type of massage. The height lock is also very important point in the process, how to choose a massage table for a professional massage therapist. There are two ways to fix the table to the height of the tabletop: by telescopically extending the inside of the leg and fixing it at the desired level using a button or by means of constituent parts legs twisted together. The second type is much more stable than the first, but less convenient. It is important that the table can be folded with maximum height, otherwise you will have to change the height back each time you fold. Legs must have protective coating so as not to scratch the floor.

Tabletop width and length. The normal width of the table is from 60 to 70 cm. It can be slightly larger due to the armrests. However, too wide a tabletop will make it difficult for the master to access the patient's body, forcing him to bend over, and this will lead to more fatigue of the massage therapist's arms and back. The length of the table is normally 180-190 cm.

Accessories. Armrests, headrest, roller - all this is designed for additional patient comfort and ease of massage. However, as a rule, not many specialists use such items as a roller, armrests, or a movable part under the back. But the headrest is used more often. It should be sufficiently elastic, and the seams on it should not touch the patient's face. The angle of the head restraint must be adjustable.

Sheathing and covering. The folding table can be covered with leather or leatherette. Vinyl-leather leatherette is the least durable and soon becomes unusable. Cotton-based leather substitutes and artificial leather more preferred as a coating material. But the best massage tables are made with a covering of genuine leather, the service life of which is no less than the design of the table itself. The filling material must be resilient despite the weight of the patient. Corners should be covered very tightly and preferably with a double layer of covering material. Pay attention also to the quality of the seams - in all problem areas they must be double.

Bag for carrying the table and cover. The bag may not be included, but it is simply necessary. Her choice must be made after trying it on the table. Of course, it is best if the bag comes with a folding massage table. In addition, a cover can go to the table for storing it unfolded.

The purchase of a massage table is more often associated with professional activity massage therapist or, if there is a person in the house to whom the procedure is indicated for medical indications on a regular basis.

Tables are classified:

• on mobility - stationary and mobile ;
• by the number of sections - from one to the number of sections of the spine;
• folding and inseparable.

These are not all criteria for classifications, but they are already enough to start the analysis of existing products, when you need to choose massage table for home, work or travel to the client. It is recommended to give preference to models that meet the requirements of your work. For example, if you are working with people who have a large body mass, then it is better to take models with a maximum load capacity. For an average table - 200 kg, but there are those that are designed for 1000. Keep in mind that your impact also affects the load.

The main parameters of tables for massage

The convenience of work basically depends on the main characteristics. To understand how to choose the right massage table, decide on personal preferences based on your own height and proportions. In addition, you need to consider with whom you plan to massage - a child, a pregnant woman, an elderly person or a team of athletes.

Equipment height

The height is adjustable due to the legs and can vary between 55-85 cm. Since the selected massage table is your permanent working tool, make sure that the adjustment mechanism will be comfortable:

• telescopic legs;
• electric drive;
• hydraulic pedal.

How to choose a massage table: during work, you should be able to easily readjust with minimal discomfort for the client. Equipment with transformation mechanisms on the electric drive is the most comfortable and expensive.

Table top width

Table parameters from 70 to 76 cm are considered standard. If the width is less (there are models from 50 cm), then they are usually equipped with armrests. With a larger width - up to 80 cm - the massage therapist may be uncomfortable. A properly selected massage table is characterized by the absence of the need to stretch, otherwise the load on the hands and body of a specialist will increase.

Comfortable length

The length of 185 cm is considered the most optimal for work. For most clients, it is enough. You need to choose such a massage table or couch so that the person fits completely - the limbs, the head should not hang from the edge. Modern models have the ability to adjust the length of the bed, which greatly facilitates the work.

More options to choose from

What else should you pay attention to when choosing a massage table: coating, frame material, additional accessories.

Coating

How to evaluate the quality of upholstery? The client will be comfortable if he chooses natural materials- leather, eco-cotton, coated. The fact is that choosing a table with a cheap cover means that the client will be uncomfortable. The material will be cold on first contact, it will not breathe well, causing sweating and irritation. At the massage table should be easy care, and it is better to choose a coating that is pleasant to the touch and at the same time resistant to wear.

There is a seal under the cover. Since a soft massage table is uncomfortable as well as unnecessarily hard, give preference to designs such as a massage table in salons - medium hardness which is convenient for both the client and the specialist.

Base materials

If you're getting a model for the home that you'll only use occasionally, then the lightweight aluminum foldable design is fine. How to choose the right massage table for frequent use: here you will need to invest in a stable heavy frame; the frame can also be wooden or bamboo if the equipment is used for baths, saunas, pools. You need to choose a massage table in accordance with the conditions of your work and the capabilities of regular visitors. How to choose the right manufacturer is also an important part. A professional massage table must meet all safety and ergonomic criteria, including if people with limited mobility are being rehabilitated.

Additional accessories

A high-quality massage table can replace a whole office, it is additionally equipped with accessories that contribute to a more comfortable procedure: pillows, cabinets, holders. All this makes the work of a massage therapist easier, reducing the time spent.

Beware of fakes!

When choosing a massage table, there is always a temptation to save money. The leaders of the sector are Italian and Japanese models, but you can often find cheap Chinese counterparts that are sold under the guise of favorites. At the massage table without fail must be a medical product certificate. With us, you can choose a massage table only from manufacturers with a proven reputation.

Observe the rules for operating the equipment

Any table - folding, stationary, whatever you choose needs correct use and leaving. Once every 3 months, a thorough technical inspection. When working with clients, make sure that you do not put your feet on the table, do not loosen it. Last warning directly touches products with telescopic legs. Connections can weaken over time, which will directly affect the stability of the structure.

If you purchased a model with an electric drive, then make sure that the equipment is disconnected from the network after work, and the voltage is in accordance with the standard. Professional Models heated, transformation mechanisms require careful handling, despite the fact that outwardly they can look impressive and even bulky.

The table cover may also have special recommendations in the instructions that should be taken into account in the process. sanitization. The more careful the care, the longer the upholstery will last.

The online store "Heart" will tell you as part of the consultation how to choose equipment for a massage parlor or home conditions. Which option to choose when working with children, providing cosmetic procedures or your clients are elderly people. How to choose a massage table for athletes with tall, large body mass. We are also ready to suggest how to choose additional massage accessories that will increase the ergonomics of the office. A high-quality, correctly selected massage table from a trusted manufacturer will become a reliable assistant in the work or struggle for the health of loved ones.

What is the best massage table? Only a massage specialist or researchers of the rehabilitation center for exercise therapy and massage can correctly answer this question.

Elena, massage therapist at the Valery Center. Work experience 15 years.

“A professional massage table should be convenient not only for the specialist, but also for the client, so you need to understand well what types of massage will be practiced and the needs of the client: type of massage (for children, adults, etc.), diseases, duration of the procedure. The first thing to pay attention to is:

• Strength and stability of the structure (portable tables are convenient, but their weight should not be too light);
• Weight and dimensions (it is important to understand whether the table will move and move, optimal weight- 13-15 kg);
• Comfortable palm rest (the armrests must be rotated and moved forward of the table - it is the armrests that create the image and feeling of comfort)
• Unimportant parameters: table flexure (easier to use rollers, pillows)";
• In and d massage (for classical massage, 1-2 sectional massage couches with a medium hard surface).

Height, width and length of the massage table

• Height. Usually they choose from 50 to 80 cm for their height. So for a height of 170-180 cm, a model with a height of 70-80 cm is suitable. Roughly speaking, subtract 100 cm from the height and get the desired height of the couch. You can immediately order from the manufacturer a model of the required dimensions and dimensions, or you can actually file the legs.

According to the research of the professor of the department of exercise therapy, massage and rehabilitation Biryukov A.A. and Savina D.N. the height of the massage table should be at the level of the phalangeal or digital point, and the inclination of the torso should not exceed 15-20 cm - this requires the correct width - 55-65 cm.

AT modern models you can change the height - this function is most likely not useful, because you can change it only before the massage. It is better to immediately pick up a table for the height of the massage therapist. Another question is, if specialists can quit, then height adjustment is a necessary parameter.

• Width. In order not to reach out to the client and not overstrain your back, it is better to choose a table no more than 70 cm wide. But if the massage table is intended for athletes, it can be a little wider - since the complexion of clients must also be taken into account. Optimal Width from 55 to 65 cm. The picture clearly shows the working position relative to the table.
• D line. From 170 to 190 cm - You can't go wrong if you choose a length of 2 meters with a headrest. In general, massage tables with a headrest are more versatile, as they are smaller when folded. It's great if you can raise the headrest higher than the table, this creates comfort for women with large breasts and large clients.

The purpose of the massage table and types

When choosing, it is better to immediately determine the purpose and type of massage couch. Basically, they are divided into stationary and portable and differ in the presence or absence of additional options and functions (headrest, armrests, height adjustment, flexibility, additional features as an electric drive and the material from which the frame and upholstery are made). By by and large correctly selected in height, width and length of the simplest solid construction will completely satisfy almost any client, another question is if you need to create an image - then you can choose models with bells and whistles. The feeling of greater comfort is created primarily by the armrests and the adjustable headrest.

• P a portable table is necessary for masseurs working with home visits. A folding massage table is convenient at home, when clients sometimes come to the house, and at other times it can be folded and removed. This is especially true for osteopaths who often conduct home visits. It is convenient when there are wheels - suddenly you want to put it in another place in the room.
• A professional massage table should be comfortable for the client and the massage therapist. In the salon and massage center, it can be stationary - but models with wheels are convenient in any case, as they facilitate rearrangement.
• M electric massage tables weigh a lot, so you need to purchase them where they can be placed permanently, although some models have wheels.

An electric massage table is better if the motor runs quietly and lowers and raises quickly.

• D a wooden massage table can last as long as with metal frame, it is important that there are no plastic parts in it.

Accessories for massage couches: which ones to choose?

• P sheets can be both disposable and creating the effect of massage - terry. It is more convenient to buy sheets in a roll.

When choosing disposable massage sheets, you need to consider what additional funds used in massage. So, there are oil-waterproof sheets made of laminated spunbond, with high requirements for cleanliness, it is better to use composite SMS fabric, it has high antibacterial performance (used in the production of diapers).

• FROM umka for a massage table. This accessory must meet two basic requirements - easy to clean and have wheels.
• The cover can be both disposable and reusable, but it is most convenient on an elastic band with fasteners.
• Wa It is better to purchase a face for a massage table immediately complete with a table.

It also threatens the occurrence of diseases of the spine and lower back at the massage therapist. Therefore, it will be convenient to have a folding massage table with you. Folding massage table easily and simply unfolds into working position, easy to transport (the size of the folded table is about 90 cm in length, but there are also smaller options), the table is stable and reliable, can withstand a large workload, its price is much less than the price of a stationary table. Folding tables have a different design (with a headrest, armrests, a hole for the client's face). A portable folding massage table is practically in no way inferior to a stationary table.

In order for a folding massage table to be comfortable, durable and at the same time light, you need to be able to choose the right massage table.

Height adjustment.

When choosing a table, pay attention to the height adjustment of the table. A portable massage table must be adjustable with a secure fastening and adjustable from 65 to 90 cm. It is necessary to measure the massage table to your height before buying. It is important to prevent overstrain in the hands and spine of the massage therapist during work. Therefore, the height of the table should be normal for right position masters.

The height of the table should be no more than the distance from the floor to the back of the hand clenched into a fist (arms down, located along the body) and not less than the distance from the fingertips to the floor (arms extended along the body).

Table stability.

Before buying a table, pay attention to the stability of the portable table. During the massage, the table must be absolutely motionless. To check, you can sit on the table and try to loosen it. The table should not move too much. Ideally, it will be immobile.

Table weight.

Gone are the days of heavy portable tables. To date, the lightest carbon fiber tables weigh about 7 kg. Duralumin tables weigh about 10-11 kg. Steel tables weigh 15-25 kg. We recommend buying a table weighing up to 15 kg. Transporting a folding massage table weighing over 15 kg is already difficult. Carbon fiber tables, although light, can withstand Weight Limit client up to 120 kg. Optimal allowable weight folding massage table 15 kg.

Material.

Portable massage tables are made of carbon fiber or carbon fiber, metal, wood.

The difference between wood and metal is only in weight and price. In terms of strength, they are not inferior to each other. The legs must have additional protective caps. They serve as protection against damage to the floor covering.

Table dimensions.

The normal width of the table is 60-70 cm. If necessary, in some models, the table can be extended with additional armrests. If the table is too wide, it will make it difficult for the massage therapist to access the patient's body and create an additional load on the spine and lower back of the massage therapist.

The optimal length of a folding massage table is 180-190 cm. You should also pay attention to the fact that the massage table folds in the working position. That is, when installing the table, it did not need to be adjusted additionally in height.

Additional accessories.

Additionally, a massage table may include a headrest, armrests, and a roller.

The headrest must be securely attached to the table and the tilt of the headrest adjusted. The presence of seams on the side adjacent to the client's face will cause discomfort. The seams should not look up.

Table cover.

The cover of a portable massage table can be either leather or a substitute.

Also keep in mind that the table cover must be of high quality, namely, the cover material must be elastic, and the table corners must be tightly covered. Leather is more expensive, but such a table will serve you much more. An additional plus will be if the corners of the massage table have an additional double coating.

The least durable leatherette is vinyl artificial leather. Such a coating is short-lived and wears out quickly. More durable is cotton-based leatherette. The most wear-resistant is artificial leather.

At the moment, models of firms are presented on the domestic market:

Oxygen (Taiwan)

FysioTech (Finland)

Oakworks (USA)

Vision (China)

Life Gear (Taiwan)

Saniga (Russia)

Helioks (Russia)

To transport the foldable portable massage table, we recommend purchasing an additional carrying bag.

Additional material:

Folding couches for massage have become unusually in demand recently. After all, the folding design is convenient for massage therapists due to the ease of carrying the table during field service and simple assembly. In terms of reliability and functionality, many folding models of massage tables are not much different from stationary ones. So, permissible load usually is 200-240 kg. The folding design, in addition to the presence of a grommet (holes for the face) in the bed, fully allows the placement of an adjustable headrest and armrests installed both in front of and on the sides of the bed, expanding it. For the convenience of specialists in folding models, it is possible to manually adjust the table in height, and for cosmetologists - an additional adjustable section for the back.

Portable couches are also convenient for patients: there are models on the market designed for patients with different physiques. And after the procedures, the table simply folds up in the form of a suitcase and stows away in a closet or under the bed, without taking up much space at home.

However, the most important advantage of portable massage tables is their price, which usually ranges from 7 to 29 thousand rubles. (tables domestic production mostly up to 10-12 thousand rubles). This is significantly lower than the price of even simple two-section models of stationary tables, not to mention models with electric or hydraulic height adjustment.

What parameters are most important when choosing a folding massage table?

First of all, do not forget about the main purpose of the massage couch - to stand securely, and not swaying, on the floor. The patient should completely relax, and the massage therapist should not adjust the movement to the rocking of the table and not worry about whether the table will turn over or fold when the movement is wrong. Neglecting this main criterion for the reliability of the couch, massage sessions will be practically useless due to the tense state of the client and the high fatigue of the specialist. Period useful operation such a table is likely to be minimal. In the worst case scenario, the client can be seriously injured by falling from an overturned or broken table.

A headrest, armrests, an adjustable back section, covers are far from the most necessary accessories for a massage table. Few professionals actually use them in their work. In this regard, be careful, when choosing, look, first of all, at the reliability of the table design, and not at the presence of "pleasant little things". Moreover, there are many actively promoted, but frankly low-quality tables on the market that do not meet the requirements for strength and reliability, but are often supplied in a “rich package”. Buying a table with weak strength elements and loose fixtures due to few people really need a rising back or headrest, hygienic covers, which, by the way, cost a penny, armrests, sometimes fixed on two pencil-thick wooden sticks (Fig. 1), akin to buying a used car in disrepair, but with powerful speakers, including which you can’t hear the rattling and noise of “dying” units. At the same time, many similar, usually Chinese, models, actively promoted in Russia and sometimes passed off by unscrupulous sellers as Japanese or Italian, are much more expensive than well-made and high-quality products of some worthy domestic manufacturers. And sometimes their price is comparable to the cost of Finnish-made models that have proven themselves, such as Lojer or Fysioline, the strength and durability of which are evident (Fig. 2) and time-tested.

The second parameter that you need to pay attention to is the weight of the table. This parameter is especially important if you plan to often transport the couch with you. After all, the meaning of the name "portable" is lost if it is impossible to walk with a table in hand, not to mention climbing stairs. Agree, even a physically strong man will find it difficult to carry or lift a 25-kilogram suitcase with impressive dimensions up the stairs. And then what can we say about the beautiful half of humanity, because masseurs are not only men. Therefore, we advise you not to consider models weighing more than twenty kilograms. Moreover, unreasonably large weight is not at all associated with increased strength, but, on the contrary, speaks of the irresponsible outdated attitude of manufacturers (unfortunately, mostly Russian) and to appearance, and to reliability, since among such models there is a lot of marriage.

But do not go to extremes. It must be understood that durable and reliable table cannot weigh very little. Therefore, do not think that a table weighing less than 12-13 kg will be reliable and durable.

All portable massage tables sold on the domestic market are divided into models with and without height changes. Models with a stationary height are developed for specialists with a height of 175-180 cm and are usually 70 or 75 cm high. If the couch is intended for a specialist whose height differs significantly from the average, then it is better to consider models with adjustable height. In order for the massage therapist to work without increased fatigue, the surface of the bed of the massage table should be lower than the end of the hand clenched into a fist with the arms lowered along the body, but not lower than the end of the fingers of the open palm.

Changing the height in folding couches is implemented in two ways: by telescopic extension of the inner part from the outer one with fixation with a button on the spring (Fig. 3) or by moving one section of the leg relative to the other, followed by screwing (Fig. 4). Telescopic height adjustment, at first glance, is more convenient: press the lock button and push the inside to the next locking position. However, such a design has a significant drawback: there is always a small gap between the inside and outside of the leg, a portable massage table with such a mechanism is less stable. The instability of couches of this design is especially noticeable at maximum height.

When buying models with legs screwed to each other with special nuts, the main thing to consider is whether the suitcase will close freely at maximum height. Otherwise, the adjustment of the height of the couch will need to be made constantly when unfolding the couch.

Table size is also important. Many experiences suggest that the most suitable width of the massage table is 60-65 centimeters. Despite this, portable massage couches with a width of 70 cm are the most in demand. However, it must be understood that the wider the table, the more difficult it will be to move it when folded, since the width of the table is the height of the suitcase when folded, and even for a person tall 180-185 cm, the base of the suitcase can cling to the floor or steps, wearing out the upholstery.

If you analyze the length of the couch, then usually 180-190 cm is quite enough. Keep in mind that it is much more profitable to have a special massage roller and, if necessary, put it under the client’s knees or feet than to take a longer portable couch “just in case”. Otherwise, as mentioned above, the word "portable" will not fit your table, because. its transportation becomes difficult.

As already mentioned in the article, the presence of a headrest, armrests and an adjustable backrest is not at all necessary condition performing effective massage treatments.

So, the rising section for the back is used mainly by cosmetologists. Sometimes it is used by massage therapists during lymphatic drainage, however, in our opinion, a multifunctional massage roller is quite applicable for this.

The head restraint, if it is really needed, should be firmly attached to the frame and be able to adjust the inclination, firmly fixing in each position. It is highly undesirable to have seams in the coverage areas in contact with the face (Fig. 5), so as not to leave marks after the massage and not cause discomfort.

Armrests make it possible to use folding tables with a narrow bed for "oversized" clients, but then they should be solid foundation and fasten tightly to the table frame.

Some give enough great importance the color of the upholstery of the massage table. Because we are still doing a review of portable couches, it is assumed that they are not always in the unfolded position and are not a piece of furniture. In addition, the couch bed for massage during sessions is often covered with a disposable sheet, under which the color of the table does not matter. In this regard, we do not recommend paying much attention to this parameter, but only for reasons of practicality: darker colors are likely to be less easily soiled, especially in conditions of frequent transportation.

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