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Las Vegas Massage Course

February 17, 2006

Learning Massage in Vegas, practicing in Australia.

My name is David Gilbert. A successful career in sales combined with the pressures of world travel left me asking do I really feel rewarded for my work. In 1999 following consultation with friends, self reflection and thorough investigation of massage schools in Las Vegas, Nevada, I decided to change careers and enrolled in a full time massage course with Dahan Institute of Massage Studies.

There are several massage schools based in Las Vegas feeding the ever growing world of resort spas. Dahan is a federally accredited school that represents the industry with high professional standards. My eight month full time (720 hours) course included 100 hours of clinical practice and exceeded the U.S. national requirements for licensing.

The course curriculum covered many styles of massage including the basics of Swedish. Described as the classical ballet of massage, once mastered, all other modalities can be integrated to suit your client�s requirements. Looking back at my training, this was the most important foundation.

While perfecting these basic skills, in depth studies of Anatomy, Physiology and Kinesiology provided a thorough understanding of how the body works and what you are aiming to achieve through massage. Other massage techniques included Trigger Point Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy, Muscle Energy Technique, Polarity, Shiatsu and Spa treatments.

The total course cost almost US$10,000 and included your choice of massage chair or table. Federal funding was available and made it possible for a variety of students to enrol in the course.

Younger students seemed to enrol for the promise of a glamorous life working in a spa and the tips available in the USA. More mature students tended towards a personal journey to helping others overcome the stress and disease associated with daily life. I personally enjoy the ability to make others feel better and improve their quality of life.

Following graduation in Las Vegas I quickly developed a loyal outcall clientele. Operating your own business was one of the options discussed at school and fortunately my previous career helped. Part time work at a local fitness centre also provided new clients and extra income for those preferring to experience the peace and quiet of a massage away from the family.

In my early days as a massage therapist, I looked for any new techniques I could integrate into my list of modalities. This searching lead to studies in Reiki, Lomi Lomi and Hot Stone Massage. During my course, I wanted to learn all there was to massage, but now I understand massage is a life long study.

Returning to Australia in 2003, I have also completed my Diploma of Remedial Massage through the Melbourne Institute of Massage located in Heidelberg, Victoria. The extra subjects of Vacuum Cupping and Mobilising Massage where not covered in my American studies and reinforce my belief in life long learning.

As a male massage therapist there is still a stigma in some circles to being gay or what services you really offer. It is important to be up front with the type of massage you offer and remain professional. Fortunately this is covered well in the subject of Professional Ethics. Sexuality is not the only area of concern as a massage therapist but it certainly is the most prominent. If you are working for someone else, choose a professional ethical establishment that will refer well in future positions.

I am now fortunate to work with the Premier team of Richmond Soccer Club in Melbourne as their therapist and enjoy respect for my profession. Life as a massage therapist with the ability to prevent injuries and aid recovery of serious athletes is extremely rewarding.

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