Research

ABMP's 2021 Survey Of Massage Therapists And Bodyworkers

By Jed Heneberry
January/February 2022

In March 2021, ABMP—in conjunction with an independent firm—conducted a survey of US massage therapists and bodyworkers to better understand the attitudes and experiences of those in the profession.

Nearly 3,000 professionals were generous with their time and participation, providing a look into the experiences of massage therapists and bodyworkers in general, and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic specifically.

In addition, a smaller follow-up survey in July took a closer look at therapist job satisfaction. Following is an overview of highlights from that research.

We at ABMP sincerely appreciate the time spent by all participants in these surveys, and we are proud to support the passionate, creative, dedicated massage therapists and bodyworkers who offer so much to their clients.

the demographics of the massage profession survey show that 71% of respondents are white, and 87% are female, and 12% are male. 3% each of respondents were Black or Asian.

The top five things massage therapists and bodyworkers reported as bringing them career satisfaction were helping people, having flexible hours, being an independent business owner, following their own path for what they want in their work, and having work that allows them to be creative.

Work Status and Challenges

59% of MT respondents were independent owners, 19% were employees, and 14% were independent contractors.

Respondents are Working


28% of MT respondents work between 20-30 hours a week, and 29% work between 30-40 hours a week.

At


stats showing % of MTs who work in service rooms, home office, spa or hotel, salon, chain, or other locations. 33% of MT respondents work in service rooms, and 23% travel to their clients.

Making


a line in 5 colors showing the varying salary brackets of MTs making $10K, $20K, $30K, $40K, or $50K, or in between

With


39% of MTs said they work two or more jobs.

Career Satisfaction

  • On a scale of 1-10, the average score agreeing with the statement "I am satisfied with my choice of career" was 8.8.
  • On a scale of 1-10, the average score agreeing with the statement "My friends and family were supportive of my choice of career" was 8.5.
  • On a scale of 1-10, the average score agreeing with the statement "Compared to the careers of my friends and family, I feel that my career is better" was 7.5.
  • On a scale of 1-10, the average score of how respondents felt about their opportunities to succeed in the years ahead was 8.1.

The COVID-19 Impact

  • At the time of the first survey in March 2021, 9 percent of respondents reported they were unemployed and seeking work, 7 percent reported they had been furloughed, and 80 percent of respondents were back to work. In the July survey, 93 percent of respondents said they were back to work.


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