Making the decision to take the 1000 course-hours training to become certified as a massage therapist in the state of NY is a very big step forward in a career. Today, people in massage programs range from those thinking about changing professional careers or moving into a part-time job to those very early in their working careers.
Going to the best massage programs in the state is a commitment of your time and money, so you want to be prepared to get the most out of the training. This means having an idea of what to expect while in the training and then having the means to accomplish all that you need to do.
It is important if the school offers an orientation program or an open house, or allows you to tour the school prior to registering, that you take the time to take the tour. This is essential as part of the selection process you will use, and you will have a good idea of what you can expect when you first arrive.
Understand the Schedule
Before signing up for massage programs make sure you understand the schedule. As NY requires that students participate in 1000 course hours of training before they can be licensed, it will be essential that you arrange to attend the program every day.
For some students, particularly those still working in a current career, a part-time program where classes are held on the weekends may be a better option. This will extend the actual duration of the training, but it also provides you with more options for scheduling classes.
Focus on the Training
While you are attending massage programs, you will have full days. This will include classroom work as well as practice and even work with actual clients in supervised clinics.
This tends to be a very intensive type of training, and you will need to be able to have downtime to rest and rejuvenate. Ideally just focusing on the training without trying to do other activities or make after school commitments most nights is a big plus to be ready for the next day.
Additionally, while in massage programs, part-time work is possible but it does take good organizational and time management skills. While some students will need to work on the weekends or some evenings, if you have this time to review theory and just to re-energize after the busy day it is always the best option.
