Questions? Answered.
Everything you need to know about the Massage Class, booking, our school and our programs — in one place.
Your first Massage Class
What happens during the Massage Class?
Each class lasts 1 hour: 30 minutes giving massage and 30 minutes receiving massage. You simply follow the teacher step by step — just like in a yoga class.
By the end of the session you will have given and received a complete Thai massage from feet to head. No experience is needed.
It's my first time. When should I arrive?
Please arrive 20 minutes before the class starts. You will fill in a short intake form and have time to change into comfortable clothes.
Do I need to bring a partner?
No. Many people come alone and we pair you with another participant in class.
You are also very welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member. Great if you'd like to bring someone — just send them this link so they can book their own spot: www.thai-hand.com/class. Every participant books and pays for their own place.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable sports clothing that allows you to move easily:
- Long sports trousers
- A long-sleeved shirt with a T-shirt underneath
- Clean socks
The massage is practiced over clothing, without oil, on comfortable mats. For hygiene we ask everyone to change into fresh clothes at the school, or at least put on clean socks. We have a shared changing room (no lockers). Bring a water bottle if you like — all other materials are provided.
Can I try the class once before committing?
Yes. You are very welcome to join a single class (€18) to experience the Thai Hand Method first. If you enjoy it, you can later choose a 10-class card, an unlimited monthly membership or the Intro Offer with online access.
See all options on the Massage Class page.
How will I feel after the class?
Most people leave feeling deeply relaxed, lighter in the body, more flexible and calmer in the mind. Because you both give and receive massage, many people say they leave the class energized and happy.
Booking & schedule
When are the classes and how do I book?
Classes take place several times per week in Amsterdam. You can find all upcoming classes on our schedule page and book the class that fits your agenda.
Bookings run through Mindbody, our secure booking system. After booking you receive a confirmation email with all details.
Is there an app to book classes?
Yes — our own Massage School ITM Thai Hand app makes booking and managing your classes easy:
Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes. You can cancel or reschedule via the link in your booking confirmation email or through the app, according to our cancellation terms.
How often should I come?
Most people come once per week, just like a yoga or fitness class. That rhythm is what makes the benefits last: less pain, better sleep, more energy.
If you are dealing with more tension — headaches, back pain, stiffness, stress or fatigue — many people choose to come more often for a period of time. Listen to your body and pick the rhythm that feels right.
Arrival, door policy & lost items
Where is the school and how do I get there?
ITM Thai Hand Amsterdam
Piri Reisplein 70
1057 KH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The school is easy to reach by bicycle and public transport. Street parking around Piri Reisplein is limited and paid — check the cheaper P+R options if you come by car.
When does the door open — and when does it close?
The door opens 15 minutes before start time. Please arrive 10–15 minutes early (20 minutes for your first class) to check in and change.
I left something behind. How do I get it back?
Don't worry — we keep all lost items safely stored at the school.
You can pick up your item:
- 15 minutes before any upcoming class, or
- right after a class ends
Please note: the door is closed during class, so it is not possible to collect items while a class is running. Check the schedule to find a good moment, and simply ask the teacher for your item.
Health & safety
When should I NOT join a class?
- Pregnancy (any trimester)
- Inability to sit or kneel safely on the mat
- Recent surgery or fresh injuries
- Fever or contagious illness
Always inform the teacher in advance about any injuries, limitations or health conditions, so we can evaluate what is safe for you.
I am pregnant. Can I join?
Congratulations on your pregnancy! Because the Massage Class is practiced in a group setting, we cannot adjust the massage to individual pregnancy needs, so the class is not suitable during pregnancy. We recommend a therapist specialized in pregnancy massage instead.
You are very welcome to join us after your pregnancy. For courses and programs, other options such as table massage, chair massage or theory courses may be possible — contact us and we will look at what is safe.
I cannot sit on my knees. Can I still join?
In Thai massage we sometimes sit on our knees while giving massage. If this is uncomfortable, we can often make simple adjustments — for example a cushion under your hamstrings or a different position. Most people participate comfortably with these adjustments.
If you currently have a serious knee injury or pain, we recommend first booking a treatment with a certified therapist before joining the class.
Do I need strength or flexibility?
No. All techniques are adapted to your body, and you gradually build strength and mobility safely. Beginners are always welcome.
Classes, courses & programs
What is the difference between the class, courses and programs?
- The Massage Class — weekly 1-hour practice session where you give and receive a full massage. For health, relaxation and wellbeing. Not a professional training.
- Courses — shorter specialized trainings, such as chair massage, foot reflexology or deep tissue.
- Nuad Thai Massage Program — our 6-month professional therapist training across 5 modalities.
- Advanced Nuad Thai Massage Program — deeper therapeutic specialization for graduates.
- Thai Hand Method – The Program — our signature program for personal transformation, professional practice and certified teaching.
You can start with classes or a single course and upgrade to a full program later.
What is Thai Hand Method – The Program?
Thai Hand Method – The Program is our signature training built around the method we developed over 17 years with more than 10,000 students. It serves three outcomes:
- Personal health — transform your own body, energy and stress levels through regular practice.
- Professional 1-on-1 practice — work confidently with clients using the Thai Hand Method.
- Certified teaching — become a certified Thai Hand Method teacher and lead your own classes.
No previous massage experience is required. Not sure if this is right for you? Book a free discovery call and we will help you choose.
What do I learn in the Nuad Thai Massage Program?
The 6-month program trains you in 5 modalities:
- Thai Yoga Massage on the mat
- Table Massage
- Chair Massage
- Foot Reflexology
- Deep Tissue & Sports Massage
Plus theory, anatomy basics, communication skills and career guidance. Graduates work in wellness centers, yoga studios, 5-star spas, corporate chair massage, or start their own massage practice.
Curious if this program fits your goals? Book a free discovery call
What is the Advanced Nuad Thai Massage Program?
For graduates who want to develop advanced therapeutic skills, including sports massage, fascia therapy and techniques for chronic tension and pain. Contact us for start dates and requirements.
I want to do a program but I'm not sure which one. What now?
That's exactly what our free discovery call is for. In a short conversation we look at your goals — health, a new career, or teaching — and advise which path fits you best. No obligation.
Payment, funding & certification
Are there payment plans?
Yes — flexible installment plans are available for most programs. We discuss the options that fit your situation during your discovery call.
Can my training be funded?
In some cases, training can be fully or partially funded through Dutch agencies such as the UWV, or through employer support. We help you explore eligibility and guide you through the application process.
Are the certificates recognized?
Yes. Our certificates are internationally recognized and the school is CRKBO-accredited. ITM Thai Hand Amsterdam was established in 2009 and has trained more than 10,000 students.
What if I don't pass the exam immediately?
You take your exam when you are ready. If you don't pass immediately, you can retake the exam with feedback and guidance from our teachers.
What if I miss a lesson?
Catch-up options are available through practice classes, alternative groups or online tools, depending on your program. Discuss it with your teacher and we will find a solution together.
Not sure where to start?
Start free and experience the Thai Hand Method at home — or book a free call and we'll personally help you choose the right class, course or program.
The discovery call is free and without obligation.