You know the client. The one who always asks for more pressure, pushing you to the physical limit of what your hands and elbows can do. Delivering that deep work can be exhausting for you and uncomfortable for them. Ashiatsu offers a better way. By using the broad surface of the foot, you can provide a deep, gliding compression that feels both powerful and incredibly soothing. It allows you to sink into muscle tissue without the poky, painful sensation of a thumb or elbow. A DeepFeet Bar Therapy certification will equip you with the skills to get better, longer-lasting results for your clients with chronic pain.
Key Takeaways
- Learn a Deeper, Smarter Way to Massage: Ashiatsu uses your feet and gravity to deliver deep, flowing pressure that clients love, all while saving your hands, wrists, and back from the strain of traditional deep tissue work.
- Prepare for a Professional Leap: This is an advanced certification for licensed massage therapists. You’ll need to be physically ready for the hands-on training and prepared to invest in the essential overhead bar system for your practice.
- Build a Niche and Extend Your Career: By adding this specialized skill, you can attract new clients, command higher rates, and create a more sustainable, long-term career path by reducing the physical toll on your body.
What is DeepFeet Bar Therapy?
If you’ve ever wished you could deliver deeper, more consistent pressure without straining your hands and wrists, then you’re in the right place. Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy is a unique and powerful massage modality where the therapist uses their feet to perform the massage. Don’t worry, you’re not just walking on a client’s back! This highly-skilled technique uses overhead bars for balance and support, allowing you to apply your body weight with precision and control.
The name itself gives you a clue: “Ashi” means foot and “Atsu” means pressure in Japanese. By using gravity and your own body weight, you can deliver long, flowing, and deeply compressive strokes that are impossible to replicate with your hands alone. It’s a game-changer for both the client and the therapist. For clients, it offers a “deeper than deep tissue” experience without the discomfort of pointed elbows or thumbs. For therapists, it’s a career-saving technique that reduces the wear and tear on your body. At NOLA Bliss, we specialize in Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy and have seen firsthand how it transforms a massage practice.
How Does the Technique Work?
The magic of Ashiatsu lies in its mechanics. As a therapist, you’ll work on a standard massage table while holding onto a set of parallel bars installed in the ceiling above you. These bars are your key to balance, leverage, and safety. They allow you to carefully control the amount of pressure you apply, from light and flowing to deep and specific. You’ll learn to use the soft, padded surfaces of your feet to glide over the body, using clean, sanitized feet and a non-oily lotion or cream. The strokes are often long and continuous, covering the entire length of a muscle group in one smooth movement. This creates a unique sensation of deep, consistent pressure that helps to release tension and elongate tight muscles.
Why Clients Love It
Clients often describe their first Ashiatsu massage as a revelation. The broad surface of the foot provides a deep, compressive pressure that feels both powerful and incredibly soothing. Unlike the sharp pressure from a thumb or elbow, the foot distributes pressure evenly, which can feel more comfortable and less invasive, even when working deep into the muscle tissue. This makes it a fantastic option for clients with chronic back pain, sciatica, or general muscle tightness. Many become instant converts, seeking out therapists who offer this specialized service. Adding Ashiatsu to your list of massage services can attract a new clientele and keep your regulars coming back for a truly unique and effective treatment.
Busting Common Myths
Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions about Ashiatsu. First, the “ick” factor. Some therapists worry clients won’t be open to being massaged with feet. In reality, professionalism and proper sanitation make all the difference. Feet are meticulously cleaned before every session, and clients quickly forget they’re feet once they feel the amazing pressure. Another myth is that Ashiatsu replaces hand-based massage entirely. Think of it as another powerful tool in your toolkit. You’ll still use your hands for more detailed work on smaller areas, but you’ll have a fantastic, body-saving method for treating large muscle groups. It complements your existing skills, it doesn’t erase them.
DeepFeet vs. Traditional Massage
So, how does Ashiatsu really stack up against a traditional Deep Tissue or Swedish Massage? The primary difference is the application of pressure. While hands, thumbs, and elbows are great for targeted, specific work, they can also cause discomfort and fatigue for both the client and therapist. The foot, with its larger surface area, can sink deeper into the muscle tissue with less pointed pressure, providing a more profound and less painful release. This makes it especially effective for large muscle groups like the glutes, hamstrings, and the entire back. For therapists, the contrast is even more stark. Using your body weight and gravity instead of muscular force saves your hands, joints, and back, helping you build a longer, healthier career.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before you jump into training, it’s smart to make sure you have the right foundation in place. DeepFeet certification is an incredible step for your career, and preparing properly will set you up for success from day one. This isn’t just about learning a new routine; it’s about adopting a new way of working that requires a specific skill set, physical readiness, and the right professional credentials. Let’s walk through the key things you’ll need to get started on this exciting path so you can feel confident and prepared when you arrive for your first day of class.
Your Massage Therapy Background
Think of DeepFeet as a postgraduate course for your massage career. Ashiatsu training is designed for professionals who are already licensed massage therapists, not for beginners. You’ll need a strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, and traditional massage techniques to build upon. This foundational knowledge is what allows you to safely and effectively apply the deep, gliding pressure that makes Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy so powerful. Your prior experience is the launchpad for mastering this new modality, ensuring you can adapt your skills to this unique, barefoot technique.
Physical Strength and Adaptability
Let’s be direct: Ashiatsu is a physical practice. But it’s less about raw strength and more about body mechanics, balance, and endurance. Learning to apply fluid, deep pressure with your feet can be physically and mentally challenging at first as you retrain your body. You’ll be using your core and leg strength in entirely new ways. The good news is that our training focuses heavily on proper form to protect your body and maximize your effectiveness. It’s an adaptable skill that, once mastered, can be less taxing on your hands and wrists than many traditional deep tissue massages.
The Right Equipment and Setup
You can’t perform Ashiatsu without the right tools, and the most important piece of equipment is a set of sturdy, ceiling-mounted overhead bars. These bars are non-negotiable. They are what you’ll use to maintain your balance, control your body weight, and apply precise pressure safely for both you and your client. During your training with us, you’ll work with a professional setup. Afterward, you will need to install a similar system in your own practice space to offer this service. We can guide you on what to look for when setting up your own room for Ashiatsu.
State Licensing and Regulations
This is a big one: you must be a licensed massage therapist to legally practice Ashiatsu. DeepFeet Bar Therapy is considered an advanced modality that falls under the scope of a massage therapy license—it’s not a separate certification that allows you to bypass state requirements. Think of it as a specialty, just like prenatal or sports massage. Upholding these professional standards is crucial for client safety and your own credibility. Our team of highly experienced therapists at NOLA Bliss are all fully licensed, and we require all our students to be as well.
Your Path to Certification
Understanding the Course Structure
Getting certified starts with understanding the foundation of this incredible modality. The curriculum is developed by DeepFeet, the leading company in Ashiatsu barefoot massage training. Their courses are designed to help licensed massage therapists add a powerful and career-extending skill to their practice. The training focuses on using your body weight and feet to deliver deep, consistent pressure, all while maintaining proper body mechanics to protect your own body. Think of it as the next step in your professional development, allowing you to offer a unique and highly effective treatment that clients will love. It’s a structured path to mastering a new technique that can truly set your services apart.
How Long Does Training Take?
You can get started with the fundamentals in a single weekend. The initial course, DeepFeet 1 Basics®, is an intensive 3-day program, typically running from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the essential one-footed strokes that form the core of an Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy session. Upon completion, you’ll earn 25 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), which helps you stay current with your licensing requirements. This initial investment of time equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to begin confidently incorporating Ashiatsu into your practice and offering it to your clients.
How You’ll Be Assessed
Your certification journey is built on a foundation of professionalism and safety. From day one, you’ll be asked to sign a code of ethics agreement and a liability disclaimer, which sets the standard for the high level of integrity expected from practitioners. The assessment isn’t about a stressful final exam; it’s a continuous process. Your instructor will observe your technique, body mechanics, and interaction with fellow students throughout the course. The goal is to ensure you can safely and effectively perform the strokes while protecting both your client and yourself. This approach reflects the commitment to excellence you’ll find among our own dedicated team of highly trained therapists.
Hands-On Practice Hours
This is not a lecture-based course. The vast majority of your time will be spent on the massage table—both giving and receiving the work. To succeed, you’ll need to be comfortable standing on the table and supporting your weight with the overhead bars. This hands-on approach is essential for developing the balance, sensitivity, and muscle memory required for Ashiatsu. You’ll practice every stroke repeatedly under the watchful eye of your instructor, who will provide immediate feedback and adjustments. This practical experience ensures you leave the class not just knowing the theory, but feeling confident in your ability to apply the techniques in a real-world setting.
Choosing In-Person vs. Online Training
You have options when it comes to how you want to learn. DeepFeet offers both in-person and online courses to fit different learning styles and schedules. Online training provides flexibility with weekly video calls and a virtual exam, which is great if you can’t travel. However, for a technique as physical as Ashiatsu, nothing beats in-person instruction. In a live class, you get real-time, hands-on corrections from an expert instructor who can physically guide your movements. This direct feedback is invaluable for mastering the subtle nuances of pressure and flow. As a certified training center, we believe this hands-on environment is the best way to build a strong and confident practice from the start.
Investing in Your Career
Deciding to get certified in DeepFeet Bar Therapy is a significant step forward in your professional journey. Think of it as more than just adding another service to your menu; it’s an investment in your longevity as a therapist, your clients’ well-being, and your business’s bottom line. This path requires a commitment of time, energy, and finances, but the returns can be transformative. By mastering this unique modality, you can differentiate your practice, attract new clients, and reduce the physical strain on your own body. Let’s break down what this investment looks like so you can plan your next move with confidence.
Breaking Down the Costs
The primary cost is the tuition for your training course. These fees cover your instruction, training materials, and the expertise of certified instructors who will guide you through every step. It’s important to remember that to earn your certification and qualify for advanced courses, you must attend all scheduled class hours. This means you’ll also need to budget for your time away from your practice. If you’re traveling for the course, factor in accommodation and transportation. As the only certified DeepFeet training center on the Gulf Coast, we offer local therapists a great opportunity to gain these skills without the added expense of travel.
Budgeting for Equipment
To perform Ashiatsu safely and effectively, you’ll need a specific setup. The most crucial piece of equipment is the overhead bar system, which is installed on the ceiling above your massage table. These bars are essential for balance and support, allowing you to apply deep, gravity-assisted pressure with your feet. The cost for bars can vary, depending on whether you purchase a pre-fabricated set or have them custom-built for your space. You’ll also need to budget for a comfortable, height-adjustable stool and any necessary lotions or oils. Think of this as a one-time investment that creates the foundation for your new service.
Advancing Your Massage Career
Adding Ashiatsu to your skillset is a powerful way to stand out in a competitive field. This isn’t just another massage technique; it’s a specialized modality that many clients actively seek out for its deep, consistent pressure. By becoming a certified practitioner, you join a global network of therapists dedicated to this unique form of healing. This certification signals to clients that you have invested in advanced training and are committed to offering a high-quality, specialized experience. It can re-ignite your passion for your work and open up new avenues for professional growth.
Increasing Your Earning Potential
Specialized skills often translate to higher earning potential, and Ashiatsu is no exception. Because it’s a premium service that requires advanced training, you can typically charge more for an Ashiatsu session than for a standard Swedish or deep tissue massage. Beyond higher rates, Ashiatsu can also extend your career. The technique uses your body weight and gravity, which saves your hands, wrists, and shoulders from the strain of traditional deep tissue work. This can mean fewer injuries and more years doing the work you love, making it a wise investment in your long-term financial health.
How to Set Your Rates
When pricing your new Ashiatsu service, start by researching what other certified therapists in your area are charging. Your rates should reflect your investment in training, your level of experience, and the premium nature of the service. Don’t be afraid to price your sessions based on the value you provide. It’s also important to educate your clients on what makes Ashiatsu different. Effective marketing for your massage business is about building trust, so clearly explain the benefits of the technique on your website and in your studio to help clients understand the value behind the price.
Master the Art of DeepFeet
Earning your certification is the first step, but mastering Ashiatsu is a continuous practice. This is where the technique transforms from a series of movements into a true art form. It’s about developing an intuitive flow, understanding the subtle responses of your client’s body, and delivering a seamless experience from the moment your feet touch their back. True mastery lies in the details—the perfect pressure, the fluid transitions, and the confident application of every stroke. It’s a skill that not only benefits your clients but also protects your own body, promising a long and fulfilling career.
Perfect Your Body Mechanics
Ashiatsu is a full-body discipline. While your feet are the stars of the show, your success hinges on your posture, balance, and core strength. Learning to use the overhead bars for support and leverage—not just for balance—is the key to delivering deep, consistent pressure without exhausting yourself. Proper body mechanics ensure every movement is intentional and safe, protecting your joints from strain. This focus on ergonomics is one of the biggest reasons therapists switch to Ashiatsu; it allows you to provide deep tissue work for years to come while preserving your own physical health and well-being.
Learn One-Foot and Two-Foot Strokes
Your training will teach you how to use both one and two feet to create a dynamic and effective massage. Two-footed strokes are your go-to for broad, sweeping movements that warm up the tissue and soothe the nervous system. They deliver a consistent, grounding pressure that covers large areas like the back and legs. One-footed strokes, on the other hand, allow for more detailed, targeted work. You can use your heel, arch, or toes to address specific knots and trigger points with precision. The real artistry comes from learning to transition smoothly between these techniques, creating a therapeutic massage that feels both powerful and graceful.
Incorporate Modified Thai Stretches
Ashiatsu offers more than just gliding compression; it’s also a fantastic modality for incorporating deep, passive stretches. Using the overhead bars for stability, you can apply gentle, sustained stretches that lengthen muscles and increase mobility in a way that’s difficult to achieve with hands alone. These Ashi-Thai techniques are incredible for clients with tight hips, hamstrings, and shoulders. Best of all, they allow you to use your body weight to create leverage, so you can facilitate powerful releases for your client without straining your own back or shoulders. It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to integrate stretching into your practice.
Prioritize Client and Therapist Safety
Safety is the foundation of any successful massage practice, and it’s especially important with Ashiatsu. A thorough understanding of contraindications is non-negotiable. You need to know when the technique is not appropriate and be able to screen clients effectively during intake. This protects your clients and builds their trust in your professionalism. Just as important is your own safety. This means ensuring your equipment is installed correctly, your workspace is clear, and you’re listening to your body. Our team of therapists at NOLA Bliss is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care, creating a secure and healing environment for everyone.
Communicate Effectively with Clients
Clear, confident communication is essential for a great Ashiatsu session. Because you’re standing on the table, you can’t always read a client’s facial expressions, so verbal check-ins are key. You’ll need to guide them through the session, from explaining how to position themselves to checking in on pressure levels. It’s also your job to educate them about what to expect. Many first-time clients are curious or even a little nervous. By explaining the benefits and walking them through the process, you can help them feel comfortable and relaxed. This open dialogue ensures they get the most out of their Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy experience.
Build Your DeepFeet Business
Earning your certification is a huge accomplishment, but it’s just the beginning. Now it’s time to integrate this incredible skill into your practice and attract clients who will love it. Building a business around your new specialty involves a mix of smart marketing, client education, and solid day-to-day management. Think of this as the exciting next phase of your career, where you get to share your passion for DeepFeet therapy with the world. With a thoughtful approach, you can create a steady stream of clients who are specifically seeking out your unique expertise. Let’s walk through the key steps to get your DeepFeet business thriving.
How to Market Your New Skill
Once you’re certified, you need to let people know! Start by updating your website and professional profiles to feature Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy as a specialty service. Use high-quality photos and videos of your setup to give potential clients a clear picture of what to expect. Share posts on social media explaining the benefits and what makes this technique so effective. Remember, marketing your massage business is all about creating connections and building trust. Reach out to your existing client base with an email announcing your new service, perhaps with an introductory offer. Word-of-mouth is powerful, so make sure your current clients become your biggest advocates.
Educate Your Clients
Many people have never heard of Ashiatsu, so a big part of your job will be education. You can’t expect clients to book a service they don’t understand. Create simple, clear content that explains how the technique works and who it’s for. Consider writing a blog post or creating a short video that busts common myths and highlights the deep, consistent pressure that makes Ashiatsu so unique. An effective public relations strategy will help generate awareness and build a positive image for your practice. When you talk to clients, explain the benefits in a way they can relate to, focusing on pain relief and deep relaxation.
Set Up and Maintain Your Equipment
Your equipment is a core part of your DeepFeet practice, so it’s essential to get it right. Your setup, which includes parallel bars installed securely in the ceiling, is your foundation for providing a safe and effective massage. This allows you to use your body weight and gravity to deliver deep, gliding pressure with your feet. Make sure your treatment room is spacious enough to move around the table comfortably. Regular maintenance is also key. Routinely check your bars and supports to ensure everything is secure. A professional and safe environment not only protects you and your client but also builds confidence and trust in your services.
Tips for Managing Your Practice
With a new specialty comes new opportunities for managing your business. Think about how you’ll price your DeepFeet sessions. Because it’s a specialized skill that requires significant training and equipment, you can often charge a premium rate. Consider creating service packages or a membership model to encourage repeat business. When clients book, make sure your intake process includes questions to determine if Ashiatsu is the right fit for them. Building strong client relationships is the cornerstone of a successful practice. Listen to their needs, track their progress, and you’ll build a loyal following that keeps coming back and refers their friends.
Why Train at NOLA Bliss?
Choosing where to get your Ashiatsu certification is a huge step for your career, and we believe you deserve a training experience that’s as supportive as it is thorough. As the only certified training center for Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy on the Gulf Coast, we partner with DeepFeet to bring their world-class curriculum right here to New Orleans. When you train with us, you’re not just learning a new skill—you’re joining a community dedicated to the art of massage and the longevity of your career. We’re here to guide you through every step, from your first wobbly steps on the bars to confidently delivering this incredible therapy to your own clients.
Our Comprehensive Program
At NOLA Bliss, we offer the official DeepFeet curriculum, a program designed to help massage therapists learn new skills and build more sustainable careers. You’ll learn the foundational one-footed and two-footed strokes, proper body mechanics, and the safety protocols that protect both you and your client. Our training goes beyond the basics to ensure you feel fully prepared to integrate Ashiatsu into your practice. We cover everything from client communication to marketing this new service, giving you the tools you need to succeed from day one. This comprehensive approach means you’ll leave not just with a new technique, but with a clear plan for your professional growth.
Flexible Training Schedules
We know that as a working massage therapist, your time is valuable. That’s why we offer flexible training schedules to fit your busy life. DeepFeet provides both in-person classes and comprehensive online courses, allowing you to choose the format that works best for you. Our in-person workshops offer intensive, hands-on instruction in our beautiful New Orleans studio, while online options provide the flexibility to learn from home. Whichever path you choose, you’ll receive the same high-quality education and dedicated support to master the art of Ashiatsu. We want to make this career-changing education accessible, no matter what your schedule looks like.
Learn from Expert Instructors
When you learn at NOLA Bliss, you’re learning from the best. Our committed team of instructors are not only seasoned Ashiatsu practitioners but are also passionate about teaching. We believe in encouraging our students to enhance their careers and work more efficiently, not harder. Our instructors share their real-world experience, offering practical tips and personalized feedback to help you perfect your technique. You’ll be guided by the same dedicated therapists who have made our studio a top-rated destination for therapeutic massage in New Orleans. Their enthusiasm for this work is contagious, and their guidance is invaluable as you develop your skills.
Get Ongoing Support
Your training doesn’t end when the class is over. We are committed to your long-term success and provide ongoing support to ensure you feel confident in your new skills. For our online students, this includes weekly Zoom sessions with your instructor to ask questions, review techniques, and connect with fellow therapists. This continuous guidance, combined with a final virtual exam, ensures you are fully prepared to practice safely and effectively. We’re here to be a resource you can count on as you build your Ashiatsu practice and have questions along the way. You’re not just a student; you’re part of our professional community.
Maintain Your Certification with Us
Completing your initial training is just the beginning. To receive full course credits and qualify for certification, you must attend all scheduled class hours for your DeepFeet 1 Basics course. Training with us at NOLA Bliss establishes your connection to the wider DeepFeet community, making it easy to pursue advanced courses and maintain your certification over time. We’re proud to be a trusted local hub where you can continue to grow, refine your skills, and stay connected to the practice you love. Think of us as your home base for your entire Ashiatsu career, here to support you every step of the way.
Take the First Step
Ready to begin your Ashiatsu journey? Taking that first step is all about preparation and commitment. Here’s what you need to know to get started on the right foot and feel confident as you move forward.
How to Apply
The first step toward certification is committing to the full learning experience. To receive your course credits and qualify for advanced training, you must attend all scheduled class hours. This ensures you gain the comprehensive skills and knowledge needed to practice safely and effectively. As the only certified training center for Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy on the Gulf Coast, we’re here to guide you. You can start by exploring the DeepFeet 1 Basics course to review the curriculum and requirements before signing up for a class with us.
Your Pre-Training Checklist
Before you dive into your training, it’s important to make sure you’re physically ready for this hands-on (or rather, feet-on) modality. We ask that you are healthy and free of any conditions or recent injuries that would be complicated by deep compressive massage techniques, including pregnancy. This isn’t meant to be a barrier, but a way to ensure you can fully and safely participate in the training. Being in good physical condition allows you to focus completely on mastering the strokes and body mechanics, helping you get the most out of your investment.
What to Expect During Training
Get ready for a training experience that is both rewarding and challenging. Learning to perform fluid, deep effleurage with your feet can be physically and mentally demanding as you teach your body to move in entirely new ways. But don’t worry—our expert instructors are here to support you every step of the way. You’ll learn in a small, focused class setting where you’ll get personalized feedback to help you build confidence and perfect your form. Our goal is to help you master the art of Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy so you can practice with skill and safety.
Your Next Steps
After you complete your training and earn your certification, a new and exciting chapter of your massage career begins. You’ll have a powerful, in-demand skill that can make a real difference for your clients and set your practice apart. And you won’t be going it alone. As a DeepFeet Certified practitioner, you will join a growing network of over 40,000 graduates worldwide. This incredible DeepFeet community is a source of inspiration, support, and shared passion for the art of barefoot healing. This is more than just a new technique; it’s an entry into a global family of dedicated therapists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will learning Ashiatsu really save my hands and extend my career? Absolutely. This is one of the biggest reasons therapists make the switch. Traditional deep tissue work puts an incredible amount of strain on the small joints in your hands, wrists, and thumbs. Ashiatsu shifts the work to your body’s largest muscles—your legs and glutes—and uses gravity to create pressure. It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to deliver the deep work clients crave without sacrificing your own body in the process.
Do I need to have perfect balance or be incredibly strong to do this? Not at all. It’s a common misconception that you need the balance of a gymnast to perform Ashiatsu. The overhead bars are there for support and leverage, not for a tightrope act. The training focuses heavily on proper body mechanics, teaching you how to use the bars to control your weight and movement safely. It’s more about technique and core stability than it is about raw strength.
How quickly can I start offering Ashiatsu massages after completing the first course? The foundational 3-day course is designed to give you the core skills and safety knowledge to begin offering Ashiatsu sessions right away. You will leave the class with a full routine you can confidently perform on your clients. Of course, like any art form, true mastery comes with practice, but you will be fully equipped to add this amazing service to your menu immediately after certification.
Are clients generally open to the idea of a massage with feet? Yes, and they usually become instant converts. Any initial hesitation disappears the moment they feel the deep, consistent, and soothing pressure. The key is professionalism. We emphasize meticulous sanitation, and when you communicate the benefits clearly, clients understand this is a highly skilled therapeutic technique. Once they experience it, they forget all about the feet and just focus on how incredible it feels.
What if I’m not sure my current studio space can accommodate the overhead bars? This is a very practical concern, but you might be surprised at how adaptable most spaces are. The installation requires a structurally sound ceiling, but the footprint is relatively small. During your training, we can provide guidance on the structural requirements and connect you with resources to help you assess your space and find the right installation solution for your practice.
