If you're looking to join into or start a massage therapy practice, you may be interested in talking to the Educational Directors at Varsity Tutors about MBLEx prep courses. We can provide you with personalized MBLEx classes that cater to your individual learning requirements to prepare adequately for the test. Reach out to Varsity Tutors right now or continue reading to learn all about how a customized MBLEx course could make a difference in your preparation.
To earn your certification to practice massage therapy, the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) offers the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The certification exists to ensure that those practicing massage therapy have the proper knowledge of the body, client assessments, ethics and laws, and other aspects of running a safe and effective practice. MBLEx classes can help you on this front by pairing you with an expert tutor who understands the industry and the exam to help you hone your knowledge and skills so you can perform at your best on test day. Unlike group instruction or a classroom environment, we set you up with an MBLEx prep course that focuses on the areas you need to improve most before the test date arrives. Whether you need more study on anatomy and physiology, pathology related contraindications, palpation assessments, or need to get a better handle on the skills you need to run your own business effectively, a private MBLEx course instructor can adapt to your requirements. If you aren't sure what you should be studying, your instructor can assess your knowledge and identify any gaps. With that information in mind, your instructor can make sure that MBLEx classes are focusing on the areas where you have the most opportunity to improve your score.
The MBLEx covers a comprehensive set of knowledge to ensure massage therapists are ready to practice professionally. Here are the sections you can prepare for during your MBLEx class:
MBLEx Section | Percentage of Exam |
Anatomy and Physiology | 11 |
Kinesiology | 12 |
Pathology, Contraindications, Areas of Caution, Special Populations | 14 |
Benefits and Physiological Effects of Techniques that Manipulate Soft Tissue | 15 |
Client Assessment, Reassessment, and Treatment Planning | 17 |
Ethics Boundaries, Laws, Regulations | 16 |
Guidelines for Professional Practice | 15 |
MBLEx courses also focus on helping you become a better test taker. There are specific traits people can build up that help them perform at their full potential on test day, like time management skills, strategies to help answer tough questions, and methods of relaxation. Your tutor can help you develop these abilities to alleviate test anxiety and help you become more confident for the exam.
MBLEx prep classes are of course full of substantive review of topics you'll need to know for the exam. Here is just a sampling of what you could review with during your MBLEx class:
MBLEx Exam Topics (non-exhaustive list)
- Circulation system
- Muscular system
- Lymphatic system
- Digestive system
- Nervous system
- Components and characteristics of muscles
- Joint structure and function
- Range of motion
- Areas of caution
- Site-specific contraindications
- Physiological effects of soft tissue manipulation
- Soft tissue techniques
- Organization of a massage/bodywork session
- Palpation assessment
- Ethical behavior
- Massage/bodywork-related laws and regulations
- Therapist hygiene
- Healthcare and business terminology
Besides providing you with explanations and review of topics and helping you build solid test-taking skills, your MBLEx prep class is as convenient as we can make it. We will find you a tutor who has the proper skills and who best matches your availability to make scheduling sessions easier. We also give you the ability to work with your tutor in online face to face sessions so that you don't have to travel.
If you're ready to start your MBLEx prep classes, contact Varsity Tutors today.
*MBLEX is a trademark of the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) that did not produce or endorse this course, material, or service.

David: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...from The Swedish Institute in New York, NY. I continued my studies in Chicago, IL at The Midwest College of Oriental Medicine, where I earned a BS in Nutrition, MS in Oriental Medicine, and completed all Doctorate level coursework in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. I have been a Massage Therapy instructor since 2007 and have...
Education & Certification
- Swedish Institute a College of Health Sciences - Associate in Science, Massage Therapy
- Midwest College of Oriental Medicine-Chicago - Master of Science, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Professional Certifications
- Kinesiology
- Anatomy & Physiology
- +1 subjects

Kim: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...of Science and have taught Anatomy and Physiology in the Nursing Program at Laguardia Community College in NYC. At other colleges I have taught Biology, Academic and Business Writing, also Communication Skills in Business and Relationships, and Acupuncture. in 2022, Varsity commissioned me to teach small classes preparing students for the standardized Massage Board Exam...
Education & Certification
- University of Colorado Boulder - Bachelor of Science, Music
- Tri-State College of Acupuncture - Master of Arts, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- NBCE - National Board of Chiropractic Examiners
- High School Computer Science
- Algebra 2
- +99 subjects

Andrea: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
As an educator, my goal is to have you understand content material and apply this information to the relevant course material. I serve as a mentor and facilitator of learning and strive to engage you through an active learning approach to knowledge comprehension.
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- Seton Hall University - Doctor of Science, Physical Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination
- FSBPT - Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy
- PTA - Physical Therapist Assistant Exam
- +17 subjects

John: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...of view they may be more familiar with in everyday life. I had the opportunity to gain teaching experience both in New York and Florida, teaching massage therapy between 2004 and 2006, but then chose to focus on my practice and expanding my own education for the last several years. I would now like to...
Education & Certification
- New York College for Wholistic Health Education and Research - Associate in Arts, Massage Therapy
- Daytona State College - Associate in Arts, Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine - Bachelor of Science, Health Sciences, General
- Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine - Master of Arts, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Organic Chemistry
- Kinesiology
- +3 subjects

Caroline: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...of experience in tutoring and teaching, I specialize in Anatomy & Physiology and the MBLEX exam. My passion for education is deeply rooted in my 18 years as a massage therapist, where I have taught various classes and workshops, focusing on hands-on learning and real-world applications. I believe in creating a supportive learning environment that...
Education & Certification
- University of Wyoming - Master of Arts, American Studies
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Science
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Professional Certifications

James: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...I have been in the health and wellness profession for over 14 years and have been a licensed massage therapist for 9 years. In that time I have run my own successful practice, worked for Massage Envy and have treated a variety of clients, including those with chronic pain, sports injuries, recovering from surgery, autoimmune...
Education & Certification
- CW Post Long Island University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Arts, General
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Science
- +5 subjects
Holly: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...tutoring anatomy and physiology, as well as massage therapy subjects, including the MBLEX and NBCE examinations. My approach is student-centered; I tailor lesson plans to accommodate individual learning styles, whether auditory, visual, or kinetic, ensuring that each student grasps the material effectively. I have a deep commitment to helping students connect theoretical knowledge with practical...
Education & Certification
- Palmer College of Chiropractic - Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.), Chiropractic Physician
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- NBCE - National Board of Chiropractic Examiners
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Biomechanics
- +2 subjects

Twinkle: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...therapy professional with extensive experience and a passion for teaching, I am dedicated to helping students thrive in this complex field. My customized teaching approach focuses on your unique needs and fosters critical thinking skills. Let's work together to ensure your success in the therapy field. Contact me to begin your educational journey today!
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Downtown - Bachelor in Arts, Physical Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- COTA / NBCOT - Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
- NBCE - National Board of Chiropractic Examiners
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- +40 subjects

Olga: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...to decades of work as a yoga instructor (1999 - Yoga Alliance, E-RYT 500) as well as massage therapist (2008 - Arizona School of Integrative Studies). Currently nationally certified and licensed by the State Medical Board of Ohio for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (since 2009) and passionate about helping students succeed in bodywork professions.
Education & Certification
- Case Western Reserve University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Arizona School of Integrative Studies - Certificate, Massage Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Other
- Yoga
- High School English
- +6 subjects

Alexandrya: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...recent graduate of Lock Haven University. I graduated with an "A" GPA and my recent instructor is consulting with higher-ups to help me become an instructor for Massage Therapy. I love anatomy and physiology, science, biology, writing, English, and business. I use alternatives to my advantage when it comes down to your learning abilities.
Education & Certification
- Lock Haven University - Bachelor in Arts, Massage Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Honors Biology
- College Biology
- High School Biology
- +15 subjects

Yaw: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...specializing in preparation, assessment, and execution of small business start-ups and consultations in the area of Intercollegiate Athletics, Higher Education, Health Care, Wellness & Fitness, and Nutrition. He has been an external consultant with over a decade of experience serving clients in K-12, collegiate, professional, public and private sectors around the world.
Education & Certification
- Mississippi State University - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse - Master of Science, Exercise Science
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- International Sports Sciences Association
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- +9 subjects

Hannah : San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Art in Forensic Psychology. I am a licensed massage therapist (for the past seven years). I am currently completing my second masters in Integrative Medicine. I plan to pursue a dual doctorate in clinical and spiritual psychology upon completion. I look forward to assisting...
Education & Certification
- Columbia Southern University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Argosy University-Nashville - Master of Arts, Forensic Psychology
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Clinical Psychology
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Psychologies
- +14 subjects

Jill: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...and Journaling. I did teach children ages 3-13 in an online program out of Beijing teaching English to Chinese children. I was a teacher in that program for nearly 4 years. I do have my TESOL and TY7 Certificates for that purpose. My first experience as a classroom teacher was at the age of 19....
Education & Certification
- University of Nebraska, Lincoln - Bachelor, Medieval and Renaissance Studies
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Geography
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +31 subjects

Angela Staylor: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...and apply these tools and concepts. Together, the student and I work to discover what they already know, and work to find different ways to connect the dots between concepts to gain a thorough understanding of the material. I tutor business and science courses, and enjoy showing students how fun and engaging these courses are...
Education & Certification
- ECPI University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- ECPI University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Organic Chemistry
- MCAT
- Medical Terminology
- +8 subjects

Rashan: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...ages in a variety of settings including home health, schools, inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have over 7 years of experience teaching occupational therapy coursework in postsecondary settings; five of those years were as a Program Director. Under my leadership, each cohort's NBCOT pass rate exceeded ACOTE's requirements. In 2017, I became a...
Education & Certification
- The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Belmont University - Doctor of Science, Occupational Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- NBCOT - National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- OTR / NBCOT - Occupational Therapist - Registered
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- +31 subjects

Victoria: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...needed. The disadvantage to that method of learning is you'll be in a situation with a client and you do not remember the details of a specific muscle. The lack of information or the inability to recall the information could potentially delay healing for your client and put yourself in a situation you may not...
Education & Certification
- Hutchinson Community College - Associate in Arts, Accounting and Business Management
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- CPA
- Business
- College Accounting
- +7 subjects

Jodi: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...one particular chiropractor that was the local hockey team doctor, he started showing me how to "work" (massage) the hamstrings or the calves; whatever the patient needed at the time. I was clueless! (Keep in mind this was BEFORE most state licensing started.) I grew to love the process and outcome from doing the few...
Education & Certification
- Utah College of Massage Therapy Inc-Salt Lake City - Certificate, Massage Therapy
- University of Phoenix-Charlotte Campus - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Professional Certifications

Kelly: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...struggle with and how to break down complex material into something manageable and memorable. Whether you're reviewing key concepts, overcoming test anxiety, or building confidence before exam day, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's get you across the finish line and into the career you've worked so hard for.
Education & Certification
- Florida State University - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- Core Institute - Associate in Science, Massage Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- Professional Certifications

Janelle: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...have always valued education and continue to be a life long learner in all aspects of my life and profession. I have had the opportunity to tutor classmates and family/friends and unexpectedly found great fulfillment in teaching. Being able to teach and guide future generations is a goal and expectation I have recently set out...
Education & Certification
- Wichita State University - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- Wichita State University - Doctor of Science, Physical Therapy
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- ABPTS - American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties
- FSBPT - Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy
- NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination
- +12 subjects

Sylvia: San Clemente MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination course instructor
...college and throughout my career as a professional engineer and scientist before transitioning into full time teaching at the university level. I also created engineering/science/mathematics programs between NASA, Oberlin College and Case Western Reserve University for students who could work with me and or get support in their academic endeavors with my assistance. I am...
Education & Certification
- Oberlin College - Bachelor in Arts, Premedicine
- Case Western Reserve University - Master of Engineering, Systems Engineering
Subject Expertise
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- NCLEX
- Political Science
- Engineering
- +120 subjects