Massage therapy is an ancient art practised for centuries, and it continues to grow in popularity today. As the world becomes increasingly fast-paced and stressful, more and more people are turning to massage therapy as a way to relax, unwind, find relief from chronic pain and other health issues, and improve overall wellness.
If you want to become a massage therapist in Ireland, you must choose a training program that suits your needs and goals. Two popular options are neuromuscular therapy courses and holistic massage courses. What’s the difference between the two? And which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details and help you make an informed decision about your massage therapy education.
These courses are designed for individuals who want to provide neuromuscular therapy (NMT), a specialised massage therapy focusing on treating soft tissue pain and injury. NMT uses a variety of techniques to help ease tension, alleviate pain, and promote healing.
Neuromuscular therapy courses provide in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology. They teach various techniques such as trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and deep tissue massage, which treat muscle pain and soft tissue dysfunction.
A top-rated neuromuscular therapy course in Dublin, like the one offered by the National Training Centre, involves hands-on training, practical experience, and comprehensive theoretical knowledge. Students learn how to assess and treat soft tissue injuries, including chronic pain, sports-related injuries, and postural imbalances.
These courses are designed for those who want to offer holistic massage, a form of massage that primarily aims to treat the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Aside from anatomy, physiology, and pathology, holistic massage courses teach students how to use a combination of massage techniques that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall health. They also learn about the body’s energy systems and how to balance them through massage. To add, they are taught how to create a calming and healing environment for their clients using music, lighting, and aromatherapy.
While both courses train students to provide safe and effective massages to their clients, the similarities end there. Remember, Neuromuscular Therapy courses teach students how to treat soft tissue pain and injury, while Holistic Massage courses teach students how to provide relaxing massages that treat the whole person.
Furthermore, NMT courses teach students therapeutic massages that help people with chronic pain or injury. Meanwhile, holistic massage courses teach students massages meant to help people relax.
Neuromuscular therapy courses in Dublin have a longer duration. For example, the National Training Centre’s (NTC) NMT course lasts 15 months, while their holistic massage course takes 4 to 6 months.
In terms of costs, NMT courses are more expensive, with a standard price of €4,235.00 at the NTC. On the other hand, their holistic massage course costs €1,475.00.
Choosing between the two can be difficult, as both offer unique benefits and career opportunities. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your interests, career goals, and preferred work environment.
If you are interested in specialising in treating soft tissue injuries and working with athletes or clients with chronic pain, then a Neuromuscular Therapy course would be an ideal choice. Completing an NMT course can lead to lucrative career opportunities with sporting teams and multidisciplinary clinics. You can even start a private practice as a neuromuscular massage therapist.
On the other hand, a Holistic Massage course would be a better fit if you are interested in using massage therapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall health and well-being. Once you earn your qualification, you can work as a holistic massage therapist in spas, wellness centres, or resorts.
It’s important to note that both Neuromuscular Therapy and Holistic Massage courses offer valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied to various aspects of the massage therapy industry.
Whatever path you choose, pursuing a massage therapy course can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career not just in Dublin or Ireland but also abroad.
Choosing the right massage therapy course is crucial for your career success. Neuromuscular Therapy courses and Holistic Massage courses offer different benefits and drawbacks. By comparing these programmes and considering your goals and interests, you can choose the right course. Do your research, talk to professionals in the field, and make an informed decision that will lead you to a fulfilling career in the ever-growing health and wellness industry.
Do you want to learn more about holistic massage or neuromuscular therapy courses in Dublin? Call us today on 01 882 7777, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
October 2024 – 12th♦, 19th, 26th
November 2024 – 2nd, 9th, 23rd, 30th
December 2024 – 7th, 14th
January 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th♦
February 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦
ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)
October 2024 – 15th, 17th, 22nd, 29th, 31st
November 2024 – 5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
December 2024 – 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th
January 2025 – 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 28th, 30th
PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES
February 2025 – 23rd March 2025 – 1st, 2nd
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)
OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training
January 19th, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00