14 What to Expect When Starting National Holistic Institute Massage ... Massage training involves both extensive classroom study, covering anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and ethics, and significant hands-on practice, including performing massages on peers and in supervised clinical settings. You can expect to be comfortable with giving and receiving massages, as well as develop communication skills, learn business practices, and explore self-care strategies to prevent burnout. The training is fast-paced and aims to equip you with both the technical skills and professional knowledge needed to become a licensed massage therapist. Classroom Learning & Core Subjects Anatomy and Physiology: You will learn about the structure and function of the human body, including bones, muscles, and how different systems interact. Kinesiology: This focuses on the mechanics of body movement. Pathology and Kinesiology: You'll study the causes of diseases and disorders. Ethics and Business: Essential courses cover ethical guidelines for working with clients, confidentiality, and the basics of starting and managing a business. Client Interaction and Communication: You'll learn how to interview clients, understand their health histories, build trust, and create a safe therapeutic environment. Hands-On Training & Practice Daily Practice: Expect to give and receive massages on classmates to practice techniques and develop your skills. Supervised Clinical Hours: Many programs require a certain number of supervised clinical hours, where you massage real clients under instructor guidance. Technique Development: You will learn foundational massage strokes, pressure points, and techniques for various styles like sports or prenatal massage. Professional & Practical Aspects Self-Care: Identifying and implementing self-care strategies is a key component of training to prevent injury and burnout. Licensing: Upon graduation, you'll typically need to pass a licensing exam to practice professionally. Career Development: You'll gain knowledge about different work settings, such as spas, wellness centers, or private practice, and how to build a successful career.