A spa practitioner generally completes around 300-1000 hours of training from a college or a school of aesthetics. Their main focus is to help the client relax and help with muscle aches after strenuous exercise. They draw from a variety of techniques and can tailor the massage to the clients needs.

Registered massage therapists (RMTs) complete over 3000 hours of training at an accredited institution and must pass a set of exams that are mandated by the College of Massage Therapists of BC. Their goal is to treat specific health concerns and it is often recommended to have regular appointments until the patient is fully recovered. Generally RMTs tend to be located in clinics instead of spas and so the general atmosphere is more about functionality instead of relaxation. Registered Massage therapists normally include clinical time which involves administration, assessment, evaluation, treatment and patient education.

Both RMTs and Spa Pracitioners will provide you with a great massage, it really depends on what you are looking to achieve from your massage as there is a balance between price, availability and maximising your treatments.