Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What will I learn in Couples Massage 101 coaching?

The Couples Massage 101 coaching will teach you many different angles of the multi-faceted act of giving a massage.  In our time together, we are sure to discuss the following subjects:

  • Setting up a comfortable massage space
  • Addressing & assessing the “problem areas” for your partner
  • Common Swedish massage techniques
  • Proper body mechanics for pain-free massaging
  • Real-time feedback and sequencing
  • Skeletal & muscular anatomy

How will this benefit my partner?

How will this not!?  Nevertheless, having a compassionate partner interested in addressing their myofascial needs is a gift worth their weight in gold.  Scientific studies consistently point to the healing qualities of touch between family, friends, and lovers.  To have a partner with a developed massage touch learned through Couples Massage 101 can help address aches and pains, relaxation needs, or a fun change of pace for date night.

Can I sell massages after taking your Couples Massage 101 course?

NO!  No, you may not sell massages.  To become a massage therapist takes hundreds of school hours (starting at 500+) and certification through a state board.  My Couples Massage 101 coaching classes are for educational-entertainment purposes and intended to help you become a better massage partner to your friends, family, and loves; not to become a licensed massage therapist.

Can I give anyone a massage after the Couples Massage 101 course?

Assuming you have their consent, I don’t see why not.

What are contraindications?  How do I know if I can work with pre-existing conditions?

Contraindications are health and medical issues that would cause massage to be not recommended for an acute area, or throughout the body.  Sometimes it’s a massage modality that’s contraindicated; sometimes the amount of pressure; the area or quadrant of the body; the list goes on.  If you have any questions about pre-existing conditions (like blood pressure, diabetes, etc.), I recommend consulting your medical physician in regards to massage.

Should I stretch a muscle or joint?

I don’t recommend it.  Without proper education, I do not recommend any stretches besides those I personally demonstrate and teach partners during a class.  Some stretches are too dangerous for the receiver without proper understanding (anatomy, kinesiology, forces).

Can I hurt my partner giving them a massage?

No, it’s not likely to happen, but not impossible.  Honestly, in all my years as a massage therapist, I’ve never heard of someone hurting a client with Swedish massage.  But sure, if you dig into a muscle hard and long enough, yeah, you could easily hurt someone.  Now, that’s not how I teach my couples how to massage, but some people think “no pain, no gain” when it comes to massage and relaxation.  Long answer short- No, you likely won’t hurt your partner.

Are these sexual massage classes?

No. These are classes to teach you how to effectively massage your partner and have fun doing so. If these classes are a functional foreplay, so be it. While massage is often seen as an intimate experience, Couples Massage 101 classes are non-sexual in nature.