Active Release Technique

[MOON WILLOW]

I have been a massage therapist for over 2 years now and feel that I have been achieving good results, however I have been thinking about getting some different training such as Active Release Technique. I have recently taken the Micheal Young Muscle Release Course and loved it. I know that the courses are very similar but I have clients who are stilll passing me by to get ART, even though I tell them it is in essence the same. Has anyone taken ART or known anyone who has, and what did you think?  I think for me it has a well known name and clients know about it, as well I hate to say it but it seems more "professional" than the MRT. Any comments or experiences would be appreciated.ThanksDH ;D

 

[mimi momo]

Active Release Technique

I personally think ART is a good technique, but the cost to take the training is ridiculous at this point.

They started promoting it to chiropractic students in the later 80's/early 90's and at that time even with the student discount it was crazy.  I think if you have basically the same training there is no need to get ART certified unless you just feel you have to have the ART traffic.

One thing to think about, if the clients are passing you by and you know you do the same work, do you really want these clients on your table anyway.  And how many are "passing you by"?  Is it really worth it for those few, when you can build up your clientele with people who aren't going to have such exact expectations?

It really all depends on the type of clients you are looking for.  At least that is what I think.  

Hope this helped in some small way.  

 

[djcrisp22]

Active Release Technique

I agree with Texas-Gal, if the clients are passing you by then do you really want them?I also have taken Micheal's class and personally think this has been the best thing for my practice. It is definately setting me apart from others. Once you get over the barrier of doing non-traditional massage and explain to your clients what is happening in their bodies and WHY then they are more than willing to have you do the MRT work. They don't care that it may be a little different or not relaxation massage. For people who are in chronic pain, they just want relief. I came away from Michael's class thinking this was "IT". I felt all the other classes I was going to take were really not needed anymore. Just start doing this work now, incorporating it, and your clients will feel the difference. As far as professionalism, that is up to you. You make your session with your client what it is. You can be as professional as you deem necessary, so the responsibility of that part if up to you. I felt Michael was very professional, I think he likes to mix up the class with a little fun too, but he is definately all about the client. Just remember why you are there, your intent, and be as professional as you need to, always take time to explain to your client what is going in their body, how you are going to treat it and why, and then give them the excersises to do so they can make the PERMANENT difference in their lives. It is all about them doing the work after they leave you if they want a long-term difference. I have also found that clients love that you take the time to give them excersises to do, it makes them feel like you care and went the extra mile. Forget the ART for now and start practising the MRT now, you will notice a difference, and so will your clients. Health to you,Julie