What to Expect in Your First Barefoot Massage Class

Prepare your body, your mind—and yes, your feet—for something different.

If you've signed up for your first barefoot massage CE class—or are thinking about it—you might be wondering what it'll be like once you arrive. What should you bring? How physical is the work? Will it be awkward to massage with your feet?

These questions are entirely normal. At NC Ashiatsu Durham campus, we work with both new and seasoned massage therapists—many of whom share these same concerns before stepping into class.

Here's what you can expect from your first barefoot massage training—and how to walk in (and out!) with confidence.

You'll Start With the Basics—And Build From There

You don't need any prior experience with barefoot massage. We start from the ground up—literally. In the Fundamentals class, we introduce core barefoot techniques in prone and supine positions, teach you how to use the ceiling bars safely, and guide you through the essential mechanics of using your feet instead of your hands.

You'll learn:

• How to safely mount and dismount from the table

• Balance and weight distribution using the bars and the FasciAshi strap

• Client draping, hygiene, and comfort

• Sensory training: learning to feel with your feet

👉 Still unsure how your feet can “feel” like your hands? This blog explains why that takes time—and why that’s totally normal.

The FasciAshi strap is a proprietary tool developed by the Center for Barefoot Massage, designed to help you leverage your body weight with control and precision—especially during one-footed strokes and transitions.

From there, you'll practice giving and receiving work with other students—so you get to feel the work in your own body, too.

The Class Vibe Is Supportive—Not Competitive

This isn't about perfection—it's about exploration and learning. You'll be surrounded by fellow therapists, some brand-new to barefoot

massage and others refining their skills.

Expect:

• Group discussion and instructor demos

• Step-by-step guided practice

• Real-time instructor support and encouragement

  
  

By day two, most students report feeling stronger, more balanced, and excited—not nervous—about getting on the table.

"I was nervous I'd fall or feel clumsy, but the setup was solid, and by day two, I actually enjoyed being up on the table. I felt strong again." - Fundamentals Student

👉 Curious how other massage therapists have made the shift? Read how I transitioned from hands-on to barefoot massage.

You'll Work on Real Clients Before You Leave

On your final day, we bring in workshop clients—people who already receive regular barefoot massages. These seasoned receivers give you real-time feedback, which helps:

• Reinforce what you've learned

• Sharpen your technique

• Build confidence in a real-world setting

  
  

Working with experienced clients is one of the most unique and valuable aspects of NC Ashiatsu training.

Expect to Feel Better in YOUR Body, Too

Most therapists come to barefoot massage because their bodies are tired—from the repetitive use of their thumbs, wrists, and/or elbows while doing deep tissue work. Many leave their Fundamentals class feeling energized and hopeful.

You'll start learning how to:

• Use your feet, gravity, and innovative mechanics

• Offer deep, effective work without hurting yourself

• Shift from strain to sustainability

  
  

Your body—and your career—will thank you.

👉 Wondering how to start using barefoot massage with your clients right away? Here’s how to introduce it with ease and confidence.

What to Bring to Your First Barefoot Massage Class

Once you register and pay your deposit, you'll receive a detailed linen list specific to your class. But here's a general idea of what you'll need EACH day depending on the class:

• Soft, pedicured feet

• Your favorite massage cream or lotion (preferred over oil)

• 1 top & bottom sheet

• 1 face cradle cover

• 1 washcloth or kitchen towel

• 2 king-size pillowcases

• Clean flip-flops or slippers

  
  

Note: We provide a sample of deep tissue cream from our sponsor, Pure Pro, so you're welcome to try it during class. So if you'd rather not travel with your cream or lotion, you're covered!

We provide all stools, face cradles, pillows, and heavy-duty massage tables (with an 800 lb working capacity). Linens are available for rent for $20 per day if you prefer to travel with less luggage and don't want to bring your own.

The studio also includes a fridge and microwave, so feel free to bring snacks or lunch. And yes—there's plenty of free parking.

Other Things to Know Before You Arrive

We want to make your training experience as smooth and empowering as possible. A few key reminders:

• Please provide your room dimensions (ceiling height, room width, and length) so we can help guide your bar setup.

• Please review the Ashiatsu Training and Use Agreement before class begins.

• Punctuality matters—NCBTMB CE credit hours are strict. You must be on time each day to receive full credit.

• Parking: Please leave the spaces directly in front of the building for Bull City Soles clients and park in the area closer to the street.

  
  

You're Not Just Learning a Technique—You're Joining a Community

After class ends, the learning continues.

As a graduate of NC Ashiatsu, you'll get ongoing access to:

• A private Facebook community of barefoot massage therapists across the country.

• A members-only resource site with videos, bar setup guides, client marketing materials, and more.

• Advanced training opportunities, including Intermediate, ROM, Advanced and Clinical Neck.

  
  

You're never left to figure things out alone.

Final Thoughts

Yes, it's a little outside the norm—and that's precisely why barefoot massage works. You're stepping into a new way of working, one that supports your longevity as a therapist while offering clients powerful, memorable bodywork.

Ready to start your barefoot journey?

👉 View upcoming barefoot massage classes at NC Ashiatsu and train your feet—and your confidence—for the long run.