Which massage table to choose for a beginner massage therapist. How to choose a massage table. More options to choose from

For effective massage, knowledge and skillful hands alone are not enough. Much depends on the right massage table. Of course, an ordinary table or a couch can be used for massage, but a specialized massage table is ideal for this. Many years of engineering work and serious clinical trials have made modern massage tables almost perfect:

in terms of ergonomics,
achieving maximum relaxation in the massaged person,
effect during the massage.

There are the following parameters that you need to pay attention to when choosing a massage table.

Table elements

A standard massage table consists of a frame, tabletop, headrest, legs and additional elements.

The frame is made from:

Become . Such models are very durable, hardy and have a long service life.
tree. These models are eco-friendly, reliable and stylish.
aluminum . Often these are portable models of massage tables due to the lightness of the frame. They are reliable, resistant to moisture and mechanical damage.

The standard worktop has a rectangular shape with a possible narrowing in the middle. Massage tables can have up to three sections. The number of sections is chosen based on the procedures and types of massage that will be performed on the table.

Single section massage table

A single-section massage table with a monolithic couch can be used for any type of massage. Additional accessories are used to increase operational capabilities. It has an increased load capacity up to 2 tons. The section is height adjustable.

The two-section table has great functionality. On it, you can massage in any position - classic on the stomach, reclining, and even add a lymphatic drainage procedure. The first section is fixed. The second section is raised manually, with the help of an air spring or an electric motor. Useful for cosmetologists, osteopaths and spa masters.

The most functional model of all. All three parts of the table can work independently of each other, rise or fall. On this massage table, you can carry out any procedures related to massage, cosmetology, reflexology, acupuncture and spinal stretching.

Headrests are stationary and removable, which are attached on one side or from any end. They can have a standard or anatomical shape, which has small cutouts that allow you to put your head in such a way that your face does not touch the upholstery. When not needed, the cutouts are closed with special plugs. Cutouts are mainly used for collar massage, allowing the person being massaged to relax completely.

The number of legs is from 4 to 8, where the first 4 are the main ones, and the rest are auxiliary and are used for greater reliability.

Additional items include:

side armrests,
hand shelves,
U-shaped pillows to adjust the position of the neck and shoulders,
roller under the back, for the neck, for the knees or feet,
shelves for towels, sheets, oils and other massage accessories.

Dimensions

For a comfortable massage of people of different builds, it is better to choose a wide table, but narrow enough for free access to any part of the massaged body. In order to choose a suitable massage table in size, you need to come very close to the table and turn around in the lumbar region. In this position, the shoulders of the massage therapist should be aligned parallel to the hips of the massaged, and the hands should be parallel to the spine.

Width

The most popular tables are 70 or 76 cm wide. Narrower models are suitable for people of small stature who are uncomfortable working at a standard-sized massage table. An interesting version of the model tapering in the middle in the shape of an hourglass. This design will allow you to approach the massaged person much closer from the side and at the same time will not cause him discomfort due to the rather wide ends of the table.

Length

The standard length of the massage table is 185 cm. Suitable for most people. Therefore, a beauty salon is recommended to take just such a table. Models with a special hole for the face lengthen the size of any table by 20 cm. Therefore, a standard massage table of this type will be 205 cm long.

What else is important to know about choosing the length of the massage table? A table that is too short will create discomfort for the person being massaged, but will save on the width of the table, which will be convenient for an energetic and mobile masseur. Too long a table will only complicate the massage process.

Adjustable height

Most modern massage tables are height adjustable. For comfortable work, it is better to choose a table with adjustment in the range of 60-80 cm. It is also important to pay attention to the time to adjust the desired height. This process should not exceed 3 minutes. There are 2 types of height adjustment mechanisms:

Telescopic leg adjustment system. It can be found in aluminum massage tables. Outwardly, this mechanism is similar to the devices used in medical crutches. Changing the height with this mechanism is very simple, just press a special button and fix the table at the desired height.
Screw-down buttons on the legs. With this mechanism, setting the desired height takes a little longer than the previous one, but no more than two minutes. The massage table, depending on the price, can have either one or 2 buttons, which must first be unscrewed to set the desired height, and then screwed to fix the height.

The weight

The weight of the massage table is best chosen based on its future use. It is better for a masseur to go to a massage session with his table to focus on a weight of 10 to 20 kg. It is also desirable that the design of the table be foldable for more convenient transportation. Such models are more expensive than conventional wooden tables, because they are made of aluminum. If the table is too heavy for the user, then a special wheelchair can be used for transportation. If the table is not planned to be moved and transported, then the weight of the table does not play a special role.

Payload

The weight that the massage table can withstand on the surface and on individual parts must be selected several times with a margin. The maximum weight of the massaged summed up with the efforts of the massage therapist should not exceed 1/3 of the payload value. Otherwise, a quick breakdown of the table is guaranteed.

Filler thickness

The greater the thickness of the filler, the longer the massage table will last and does not become thinner over time. Also, this indicator affects the level of comfort massaged during the massage. Polyurethane, foam rubber or a mixed type with a thickness of 5-7 cm is used as a filler. Any option should be durable and have good cushioning properties.

massage table upholstery

Today, upholstery does not play a role when choosing a massage table. Many people prefer to use separate, removable covers that can be easily removed and washed. Usually, the upholstery for a massage table is made of artificial leather:

Vinyl upholstery.

A very popular and commonly used synthetic leatherette. According to its qualities, it is strong, durable, resistant to water and oils. Its main disadvantage is that it wears out quickly with frequent use.

Polyurethane upholstery.

In terms of characteristics and properties, it is more similar to real leather than other synthetic materials. It is soft and pleasant to the touch. The quality is very durable. Of the minuses - low resistance to water and oils, which, if they get on the upholstery, will quickly damage it.

Arpatek.

This is premium material. Used for upholstery of expensive models. Very hygienic. Just like genuine leather, it cannot accumulate pathogenic surfaces on its surface, because. the structure of the material is not porous and does not have microcracks.

The main requirements for coating materials are that they must be:

durable,
resistant to abrasion and mechanical damage,
pleasant to the touch,
beautiful,
not requiring special care.

Drive unit

The presence of a pneumatic spring or hydraulic drive will simplify the setting of the table and help you change the height of the table right during the massage, which will increase the wear of the legs. When choosing a massage table, it is important to consider that the electric motor increases the cost of the table by 50%.

cable system

It is recommended to choose portable massage tables with this system, which is also known as the tensor cable system. It is needed to give more stability and reliability to folding massage tables, fixing the legs and preventing the table from moving forward or backward.

Guarantee

When buying a massage table, make sure you get the branded guarantee term at least 1 year. Some manufacturers provide warranties up to 36 months.

It is important to know that massage tables, as a rule, are not subject to exchange and return. An exchange of a model or a refund of the money paid is possible only within 14 days from the date of purchase of the goods and only if the examination proves that the manufacturer or seller is to blame for the appearance of defects.

Features of choosing a folding portable table

The portable table is designed for visiting specialists (masseurs, cosmetologists, chiropractors, osteopaths, depilation masters), because. unprofessional surface is contraindicated for massage. Not only will the massage not be carried out effectively, but there may be problems with the spine and lower back of the person being massaged. Portable tables fold into a suitcase, conveniently carried and placed in the trunk of a car.

When choosing a folding table, you need to make sure:

that it simply unfolds into a working position;
stable, motionless and reliable in the open position;
withstands the necessary load (the weight of the person being massaged and the massage therapist);
easily adjustable in height from 65 to 90 cm;
width no less than a table 60 cm. and no more 70 cm.
height table is 180-190 cm.
easily transported.

The weight

The weight folding table should not exceed 15 kg. The weight of a folding massage table depends on the material from which it is made:

The carbon fiber table weighs approx. 7 kg.
Dural table weighs approx. 10 kg.
The steel table weighs approx. 20 kg.

Accessories

Depending on the configuration, the folding table may have additional accessories:

headrest (should be easily attached to the table and the angle of inclination should be adjusted);
armrests;
roller;
holes for the face;
protective caps on the legs (to prevent possible damage to the flooring).

Sections in folding massage tables

At portable massage tables can be no more than two sections: main and lifting. Parts folding the table and accessories are not sections.

The scope of massage tables today is really wide. In addition to the actual medical institutions, these are beauty salons, and fitness centers, and specialized massage rooms ... Therefore, the question of choosing the right table is now a key one. The relaxation and comfort of your patients, as well as the performance of your massage therapists, depend on a well-chosen couch.

At first glance, the design of the table is simple, models from different manufacturers often seem similar in appearance, but in fact, to select a high-quality massage table, you need to take into account some features.

In order for the table to serve faithfully for a long time, it must be convenient to use, safe, resistant to wear and possible external influences. For example, the material of the table should not be afraid of the oils used in aroma massage sessions. The surface should be of medium softness - a hard table can give the patient discomfort, and too soft can make it difficult to massage in the right way. A large number of sections and accessories will allow you to "customize" the table to almost any wishes of the massage therapist and patients. The best option for a massage table is a three-section one with a headrest and armrests. It is best if the accessories are already included. Tables come with mechanical and electrical adjustment - the main thing is that it be smooth and stepless. Almost all models have eyelets - holes for the face. In many models, they are closed with special plugs. It is definitely more convenient.

An important issue in the choice is the factor of its reliability. After all, it must endure peak loads reaching up to 200 kg! Leading brands make their products from a durable aluminum frame.

The color of the table also matters. Many models of massage tables are available in several color options, so you can always choose a table that is in harmony with the interior.

How to choose a portable table?

Separately, you need to dwell on the features of choosing a portable massage table. Recently, this type has become increasingly popular. The masseur is no longer tied to the massage room, he can massage on the territory of the patient, at a convenient time for him. When choosing a portable table, of course, in the first place, other things being equal, the dimensions when folded and weight matter. Usually it does not exceed 15 kg. To strengthen the structure in folding tables, a cable system is used, this allows them to withstand heavy weight. The quality of the connecting fittings and fasteners is also important, so that over time there will be no backlash and squeaks during the operation of the table. A special carrying bag will also be a useful addition to the folding table - from reputable manufacturers it is included in the kit.

A massage table is a specialized couch used for massage and manual therapy. Its characteristic feature is the presence of a special hole to accommodate the face when lying on the stomach, so that the patient can breathe without having to turn his head to the side. This ensures proper fixation of the spine and cervical region, and also improves the quality of the massage effect on this area.

Types of tables according to the criterion of mobility

According to the criterion of mobility, massage tables are divided into two categories:

Stationary.
Portable.

Stationary are characterized by higher massiveness, as well as increased comfort for the patient. These are stable structures that do not respond to the movements of the patient and the massage therapist. This ensures greater safety, as tipping over is avoided. Such systems are often able to transform, changing their parameters for various procedures that can be carried out on them. In particular, couches installed in spas can usually be folded into a comfortable chair in which the client lies in a semi-sitting position while receiving a pedicure, mud masks, etc.

portable, or folding - this is a lighter design. They are chosen by massage therapists who provide services at home. They take the table with them when traveling to each patient. The weight of such a design usually does not exceed 10-12 kg, and when folded, it does not take up much space and easily fits in the trunk of a standard car. To achieve installation even on uneven surfaces, the table has a separate height adjustment for each leg. This makes it possible to compensate for the errors of the floor on which the installation is carried out.

Production material

The massage table can be made from various materials. Its body is usually made of metal, in particular, aluminum is used, which is more typical for portable devices. Stationary ones are usually made of steel or wood. It is also common to combine several materials. Usually a combination of steel and wood.

As for the upholstery material, artificial leather is mainly used, since it does not absorb various massage oils and wipes well without leaving stains. Genuine leather is practically not used, since it does not provide any advantages, it only increases the overall cost. The upholstery material is practically not rubbed, since the table is usually covered with a cloth before use to prevent the patient from slipping, as well as unpleasant sensations from contact with a cold surface.

Foam rubber or polyurethane is used as a soft filler for the couch. Foam rubber is characterized by increased softness, but with intensive use, it loses its properties over time, as a result of which cavities appear on the surface, in those places where patients usually lie. Polyurethane is less comfortable, but it is not as prone to the "memory effect", so it will last longer. It will give the same level of comfort throughout the use of the table.

It is optimal if a filler with a layer thickness of 4 cm is used. If it is less, this causes discomfort for the patient. In the case when the thickness of the filler is excessive, this reduces the quality of massage procedures, since the base must still have some rigidity.

Types of tables by the number of sections

Massage tables differ among themselves and in the number of sections that make up their working surface.

They can be:

Single section.
Two-section.
Three-section.

The single section massage table is a classic. They are used in therapeutic massage practice, when it is necessary to achieve the most even placement of the patient's spine before the procedure. Two-section couches are often used not only in massage, but also in the provision of certain spa treatments. This design involves raising the part intended for the location of the head, giving a slight bend in the neck, which is appropriate when performing certain types of massage therapy. The most convenient for the location of the patient are three-section tables. They have a wide range of settings, allowing you to adjust the surface to accommodate the patient under his physiological characteristics.

Height adjustment methods

For convenience, the massage table should change its height depending on the height of the massage therapist. If the height of the couch is chosen incorrectly, arms and back will get tired during work. In this regard, you should not pay attention to unregulated models. There are two adjustment systems - screw and hydraulic.

Screw involves unscrewing the wing bolts from the legs to disconnect the inner tube of the leg and change its position. This is very reliable, but will take more time to adjust. The telescopic system is more advanced, but it is used only on metal tables. Its only drawback is its lower reliability, therefore, over time, the hydraulic elements wear out, which requires repair with the installation of special repair kits.

In most cases, the adjustment range should be between 60-80 cm. This is enough for a massage therapist of average height. For really tall specialists, a larger upper tuning range will be required. It should also be borne in mind that adjustment may be necessary for the special physiology of the patient. With a frail body structure, the table rises and falls if the patient is overweight. This is due to the different actual body height in the supine position.

What size should a massage table have?

When choosing a massage table, you need to focus on its dimensions. This is due to two reasons - the parameters of the room and the physiology of the patients. For example, if the massage will be carried out in a children's center, then there is no need for a large structure, given the height and weight of the children.

For installation in a compact room, it will not be possible to place a large wide massage table, since the massage therapist's maneuverability will be lost. The specialist should be able to walk around his workplace from all sides, which will be difficult if the empty space between the couch and the wall is a few centimeters.

The optimal table width is 60 cm. If possible, it is better to choose the 80 cm option. Narrower tables are 50 cm less comfortable, but there are exceptions if they have special palm rests on the sides. It is desirable that the table has a margin of length even for tall patients. In this regard, it is worth giving preference to couches with a length of 200-220 cm.

load capacity

It is desirable that the massage table has a load capacity of 250 kg. Of course, this is many times more than the average person weighs, but it provides a full probability that even if you have to work with a difficult patient, this will not cause any difficulties and falls. Such indicators of load capacity are not the limit, and there are tables capable of withstanding 300 or more kilograms. Naturally, they are more expensive, but most likely such a margin of safety will never come in handy.

Before you get a professional massage, you need to choose the right massage table. Dimensions, weight, height, materials - all these characteristics must be studied and correctly selected. In the article, we will consider how to choose the right massage table, which will be convenient not only for the master, but also for all clients.

The buyer should understand that an ordinary couch will not be a great substitute for a massage table. It cannot be adjusted according to the height, physique of the client. In addition, it will not be as convenient as a professional fixture. Therefore, the table must first of all be comfortable and reliable.

Height

The most convenient will be the table to which the massage therapist reaches with his fingertips. The height can be 5 cm more/less. Such a characteristic will allow not only to carry out massage without difficulty, but also reduce the load on the lower back. When choosing the size of the massage table, you need to pay attention to the height regulation mechanism. The step should not be more than 10 cm. Ideally, it should be about 4-5 cm. If the height is not chosen correctly, then it will be difficult and uncomfortable to perform the massage. Some folding tables have a fine-tuning of this value, which allows you to adjust the fixture to a specific massage therapist.

Width and length

The dimensions of the massage table also play an important role. The width should be about 60-75 cm. In 95% of cases, it is always enough. If the massage is aimed at overweight people, then a table with a width of 85 cm or more will do. Ideally, you need to purchase two tables for people of different builds.

The length should be about 190 cm with the headrest. Experts advise purchasing a model with a length of 200-210 cm in order to provide a pleasant session for tall people.

The weight

You can buy both a folding massage table and a stationary one. You should always pay attention to its weight. If the model is portable, then its weight should not exceed 20 kg. Otherwise, it will be difficult not only to carry, but also to fold. Many experts prefer devices weighing up to 11 kg.

Load

Not only the dimensions of the massage table are important, but also its endurance. The maximum load indicator is the weight under which the table will not warp and move in different directions. It should be noted that manufacturers always overestimate this figure. Therefore, when selecting, it is necessary to take into account deviations of 10-15 kg.

Eyelets

Not only the right size of the massage table will help to make it easier and more pleasant. Be sure to choose the device that has either a headrest with a hole, or a hole in the table itself for the face.

Eyelets under the chest are not at all necessary, however, if a girl with a size of 2.5 or more comes to the session, she will experience discomfort. Women with breasts over 4.5 sizes will refuse services altogether. For pregnant women, eyelets are needed both under the belly and under the chest. In the latter case, holes are also necessary if the girl is nursing.

When buying, it is best to choose a table that has eyelets for the chest, stomach and face. It costs a little more, but the reach of customers will be greater.

Material

All massage tables are upholstered with leatherette. It must be of high quality. If you use fabric options, then after a while the device will become unusable. Leatherette should have a neutral odor. At the moment, there are a lot of options that are as similar as possible to natural leather. Often use eco-leather arpatek. This material is soft and pleasant to the touch.

Most often, vinyl upholstery is used. Such synthetic leatherette is now quite popular. This is due to the fact that it is strong, has a long service life, and is resistant to water and oils. One of the downsides is that it wipes off easily with regular use.

Polyurethane upholstery is more like leather in its properties. Pleasant and soft. Good quality. It has disadvantages: contact with water and oils is prohibited. They damage the upholstery.

Arpatek is considered premium upholstery. It is often used to create expensive models. Considered hygienic. There are no pores and microcracks.

Synthetic materials are often used as a filler. They should be tight and resilient. Ideally, the filler should perfectly remember the shape of the body of each client. This will ensure maximum comfort during the massage. The height of the filler should not be less than 4 cm.

moisture resistance

Knowing what dimensions of the massage table are the standard for this type of device, you can pay attention to other important characteristics. The table should be sheathed in a material that will be easy to clean due to the minimal influence of moisture. If you plan to do massage in a sauna, bath or near the pool, then it is best to purchase the model that is designed for this. Otherwise, the table will suffer from moisture, and not only its coating, but also other elements will be damaged.

Arm rests

Depending on the size of the massage table, the stands can be placed either under the headrest or at ground level. Due to them, you can relax the hands of the client. In the absence of coasters, nothing dangerous will happen, but it is more convenient for both the massage therapist and the client with them.

Use of oils

If the massage therapist plans to conduct a session using oils, then the device must have special sides or grooves. In this case, the dimensions of the massage table will increase by 5-8 cm. If there is a side, then the oil simply will not drip onto the floor. If there is a groove, it will drain into the desired container. The first option is considered more convenient, so such tables are more popular.

Sections

A portable massage table can be two-, three-section. The first ones are folded only for transportation. During massage, the sections are not involved. In the three-section version, the part on which the client places his feet rises.

Support

The massage table can be made of steel, bamboo, wood and aluminum. The latter option is considered more practical. This is due to the fact that such tables are durable, weigh a little and, if broken, they are the easiest to repair. Wooden and bamboo tables are not as durable, so you have to be careful with them. Steel is considered the most reliable, but such tables are quite heavy. Therefore, they fail only if the massage therapist is a man.

Manufacturers

Many advise American and Japanese firms. For example, Anatomico makes good folding massage tables. They have an extensive range, so it will not be difficult to choose the right option. If we talk about domestic options, then it is better than the above to find the best combination of price and quality nowhere.

Models from manufacturers US MEDICA and YAMAGUCHI are made in Europe and Asia, so you should not count on first-class quality. However, they are comfortable and have a good design.

Guarantee

The company warranty always lasts at least one year. Some manufacturers extend this period up to 36 months. Massage tables cannot be returned or exchanged. This is due to the fact that it is rather difficult to prove the fault of the seller or manufacturer in the existence of certain shortcomings even during the examination.

Stationary table

Stationary massage tables are purchased for installation in spa centers, clinics or beauty salons. This is due to the fact that the device is quite heavy and unsuitable for transportation. Of the benefits - stability. Some models may change. Due to this, they can be used not only for massage, but also for other cosmetic procedures.

Folding table

A folding massage table is most often purchased by specialists who go to massage at home. Often, such a device is also bought by customers inviting masters to their place. When the procedure is over, the table can be folded and put away in the closet. Such models are also often purchased by small salons.

In addition, due to the size of the folding massage table, it can be folded and unfolded quite quickly, there will be no problems. Such models allow you to easily adjust the height of each individual leg, which allows you to install the table even on uneven surfaces.

Table types: which one to choose

Before buying a particular model, you should understand some of the nuances. The main question is where and what the table will be used for. If we are talking about home use or visiting clients at home, then a folding massage table is ideal. This option will be the most convenient. To work in the salon you will need a stationary version. If you plan to use it only for massage, then it is best to choose a single-section table. Such a device allows only to lie on the table. This option will be much cheaper than multi-section options. But if there is a desire to use the table also for other cosmetic procedures, then it is best to prefer a two-, three-section option. Such models can easily turn into a chair. Often, such options are created with an electric drive. This allows you to change the configuration of the chair in just a few seconds.

Prices

The cheapest, but high-quality portable tables for massage are sold for 15 thousand rubles. For example, lightweight options from US Medica Samurai, in which the headrest is adjustable in height and the armrests are removed, will cost just that price. More expensive models can cost from 40 thousand rubles. The premium version of Anatomico Verona is sold for 50 thousand rubles. However, for such a cost, the buyer receives a three-section table that can withstand up to 350 kg.

Stationary options cost from 60 thousand rubles and more. The most affordable model is US Medica Atlant. This table has additional cushions, multi-layer filler. The covering is carried out from arpatek. More expensive models can cost 180 thousand rubles. But for that kind of money, this is not a table, but a chair that can transform with the help of an electric drive.

Table with your own hands. What tools are needed

Below is a drawing with the dimensions of the massage table. Using it, you can easily make a fixture with your own hands. What tools will be needed?

A hacksaw that allows you to work with metal, make small cuts.
Hacksaw for wood. It can grind the ends, cut grooves. The model should have fine teeth.
A circular saw. It is desirable that it be with an inclined disk. Thanks to it, you can cut the bars. You can use it in any room, unlike a stationary machine.
Drill. She needs to make holes in the details.
Drill. They must be suitable for woodworking. Such drills have a special sharpening, which makes it easier to work with the material.
Screwdriver. In the process of work, you will need to work with self-tapping screws.
Mallet. This tool will allow you to work with wood.
Chisel. It creates a black selection of grooves.
Jigsaw. It must have a guide element. Allows you to cut parts from solid wood.
Construction stapler. Needed for leather upholstery.
Stationery knife.
Roulette (ruler).
Construction pencil.
Building corner.

DIY table: materials

To create a stationary or folding massage table, you will need certain materials. Consider those that are necessary for work:

Plywood. Must be sanded. You need to take two sheets with dimensions of 60 x 90 x 0.9 cm.
Bars, which are necessary for the manufacture of legs. Length 18 m, dimensions 2 x 5 cm.
Foam rubber. You need to take two sheets measuring 60 x 90 x 0.5 cm.
Leatherette (real leather or other material). The sheet should measure 110 x 210 cm.
Piano hinges. You need 14 pieces (1.8 x 5 cm).
Screws furniture type 1.5 cm long.
Self-tapping screws (2, 3.5 and 4.5 cm).
Glue. PVA will do. Requires 0.5 liters.
Sandpaper with a grit value of 600.

Do-it-yourself table assembly

Stage 1. First you need to make the layout of the countertop. On each plywood it is necessary to mark a piece of 60 x 90 cm and cut out the details. You need to use a jigsaw. The ends must be treated with sandpaper. This will get rid of burrs and make the surface smooth. On the sheet of plywood that will be the front, you need to mark the cutout for the face. Its dimensions are 18 by 11 cm. It can also be cut with a jigsaw. The edges need to be sanded. Below is a drawing with dimensions.

Stage 2. After the cover is made, you need to make a frame. To do this, take a beam measuring 2 by 5 cm. You need to make 4 different segments from it. They should be 90 cm long. You will need 4 more pieces of timber, but their length should be 55 cm. Using self-tapping screws (4.5 cm), you need to connect the bars to make a frame. Its dimensions are 90 by 60 cm. Measurements must be taken along the outer ends. Before connecting the segments, you need to make holes with a depth of 3 mm. Thanks to this, the wood will not crack. The front part of the countertop made at the first stage must be attached to the frames. To do this, use self-tapping screws 2 cm long.

Stage 3. You need to finish the top cover. It is treated with glue, and foam rubber is carefully laid on top. After the PVA dries, you need to put a second sheet of material. When the glue is completely dry, you need to cut out an oval for the face and remove the remnants of the material around the edges. Now you can stretch the leatherette. It needs to be fixed on the tabletop. In this case, the foam rubber should not be strongly compressed. The edge of the material needs to be bent and led behind the resulting frame. Using a stapler, you need to stitch it with it to secure it. Line pitch - 0 mm. For convenience, it is better to fix the material first along the length and then along the width. At the corners, you need to fix the leatherette so that there are no wrinkles.

Stage 4. Below is a diagram according to which you need to assemble the first two blanks of the legs. The most difficult thing when making a table yourself is to achieve the most even cut and, accordingly, stability. The table must never wobble. The cut must be neat and precise.

Below is a diagram according to which the following supports are assembled. After their manufacture, you need to connect the first and second pair of legs with self-tapping screws. The result is two identical sets of supports. There shouldn't be any twists.

Stage 5 You need to connect all the details. The hinges should be located on the inner frames right in the corner of the structure. After that, you need to fix them and install the supports. To check the design, you can first fix the loop on only one self-tapping screw. All joints should fold easily and not jam.

Stage 6 It is necessary to create spacers that will improve the stability of the table. Below is a diagram. You need to take a loop and connect two bars of 530 mm each. The ends must be connected to the short part of the table legs.

This completes the table assembly.

DIY table: time and money

Leatherette will cost 400 rubles. (one sheet). Two sheets of plywood can be purchased for 700 rubles, 18 m of timber will cost 300 rubles. Two sheets of foam rubber can be bought for 2400 rubles. Piano loops are sold for 700 rubles. (all 14 pieces).

Creating the entire table will take no more than four hours. Such a table is ideal for massage, given that the financial and time costs for it are minimal.

A folding massage table is in demand not only among massage therapists and cosmetologists. Permanent make-up artists, depilators, art tattoo artists and even doctors also often purchase massage tables for carrying. As soon as the need arises for a purchase, a person is faced with a choice from a huge range of massage tables and couches on the market today. In order to make things easier for our customers, today we have organized a special meeting with people whose occupation is directly related to a variety of massage tables. So, the participants of the meeting today: Svet Andrey Vladimirovich - masseur-rehabilitologist, teacher of massage courses and founder of his school (he broke 20 tables in his life); Zhakovka Mikhail Sergeevich - head of the hypermarket of massage tables ALFAMARKET (over the years of leadership in the field, he has become a real guru in massage equipment); Markov Sergey Nikolaevich - consultant of ALFAMARKET company (every day he answers the most tricky questions of clients about massage tables).

Journalist: - Michael, good afternoon! The first question that the buyer has to decide when choosing a table is addressed to you. Which material of manufacture is most often chosen by your customers. There is a lot of conflicting information and advice on this topic on the Internet. So, is it wood or metal?

Michael:- Hello! To date, this question is not entirely correct. The fact is that with such a selection criterion, not the entire table will be wooden or metal, but only the support. The working surface in any case will be made of beech plywood. But whether this work surface will be in a metal frame, as they often began to do in models with metal legs - this is already a weighty argument! The table, framed around the entire perimeter with a steel or aluminum frame, is insured against any kind of deformation.

Another important point when using a metal frame is the fastening of each leg to a metal fork, and not to a wooden cube. The cube, as a rule, is fastened with an adhesive or finger method, and a metal fork is welded together with the table frame.

Journalist: - Andrey, in your opinion, is it the best option?

Andrew:- In terms of strength - yes. There are, of course, folding tables with a wooden support, which in all respects are not inferior to such tables, but they are very large and massive. It is already difficult to carry such a table due to the large weight, except perhaps only around the room or office. In fact, it already is.

Journalist: - Isn't metal heavier than wood?

Andrew:- If steel is used in the table, then naturally such a table will be much heavier than a wooden table of the same size. But the leg-plus-frame combination of aircraft-grade aluminum is light in weight and has a high margin of safety.
It should also be noted that not everyone uses folding tables to work on the road to the client at home. If the table is rarely moved or used only in one room, and its folding design is needed only to save space, then the large weight of the table will only be a plus. More weight means more material is invested more or they are better in terms of technical characteristics or there are additional devices in it. And from here its strength and, of course, stability follow - these are the Laws of Physics. So it is not always necessary to chase the low weight of the table. Everything is very individual.

Journalist: - The next question is for Sergey. Tell us, what additional devices do modern manufacturers of massage tables use to increase their strength?

Sergey:- In any table between two supports there is a reinforcing structure. At wooden tables it is a fastening plywood in the form of an arch at the top or figured in the middle. For metal tables, as a rule, this is either a crossbar at the bottom or an arch in a welded joint with a crossbar.

Now let's look at each type separately. It all depends on the thickness of the arch and the area of fastening with screws on the support. The thicker the plywood, the larger the joint area, the stronger the structure. An immediate losing option is the fastening in the form of a single hollow aluminum bar, which is attached to the legs with plastic clamps. This massage table is definitely not suitable. If this crossbar is made of steel and welded with legs, then it’s a completely different matter!

The best option would be an arched system together with a crossbar. It is made of lightweight aluminum and securely fastens the supports in 4 places with welded seams.

Another criterion is the presence of a solid frame loop between the two sections of the table. It is attached in the center of the structure, where the main loads from the weight of the client and the efforts applied to the table fall. A solid loop is much more reliable than a three-loop connection.

Journalist: - Andrey, I have heard about your practices and methods. Sometimes you expose the table to incredible loads. Is it true that you've broken several tables in your career?

Andrew: - Yes, and not a little! But I must say right away that these were inexpensive and, accordingly, low-quality tables. Previously, as now, there was no choice and you had to buy tables in Poland or directly in China. Such models are still on sale, but I strongly do not recommend considering them for massage. For light loads only, so that it can withstand a small weight of the client, it is quite suitable, but no more. Cosmetologists, pedicure and permanent make-up masters - please, and serious masseurs - we pass by!

Journalist: Sergey, besides table materials, what else should be considered when choosing a table?

Sergey:- Portable massage tables are two- and three-section. If there are two sections, then the table folds in half into a convenient suitcase, and when unfolded it is a flat surface. If there is a third section, then it also has a folding design and the shape of a suitcase, but when unfolded, you can set the additional section at any angle using a special step mechanism. This is true for those who work with the face area or in order to lift the leg area without. There are also four-section tables, but, unfortunately, there are no options for carrying normal quality. If you need, then turn your attention to stationary massage tables, only there you will find the right option.

Besides tables have various dimensions on length and width. Here, everyone chooses the appropriate option for themselves, since not always the large size of the table means that it will suit you best. As well as the thickness of the filler, not every technique requires the softest possible coating, in some cases it will even be a minus.
That is why, when a client contacts us for help in choosing a table, we do not recommend a specific manufacturer or model. First of all, we ask the question: For what purposes will the table be used? What techniques and massage practices will be used? How often will the table be moved long distances? Who are your clients? And other questions that help us give professional advice based on specific conditions.

There are many nuances, such as the quality of the seams, the density of the coating material, the reliability of the fasteners, and the rounding of the corners of the table. We always draw the attention of our customers to all these little things, because often they choose a table based on a picture on the Internet and it seems to them that this is what they want, it remains only to choose a color!

Michael: - I, perhaps, will supplement Sergey. That is why a test drive of a table in a store is a very important step when buying a table. Seeing the photo and description on the site is one thing, but touching the table with your hands, lying down and even jumping on it will allow you to make a really informed choice, and the personal consultation of our specialists will not allow you to make a mistake!

For those who find it more convenient to pay the full amount in installments, we offer a favorable installment plan for the purchase of a massage table in our store. To do this, you only need a passport to conclude a contract.

We invite all customers to visit our showroom of massage tables in the center of Minsk and learn everything you need about tables from different manufacturers!