Michael Berkal, USA

IMA has asked the latest participant of the World Championship in Massage 2019 Michael Berkal to introduce him self.

I am a licensed massage therapist from Argyle, New York, and have been practicing full-time since 2002.  For several years prior to school, family and friends kept encouraging me to lookinto massage therapy, that I had a great touch and should pursue it.  

Most of my training is in clinical massage for orthopedic conditions, pain management and sports enhancement; and in myofascial therapy. It is a joy to use a gift, and skills, to help others out of pain, and help return them to a happier life without chronic discomfort. It is also great to see improved athletic performances with athletes after receiving therapeutic / orthopedic massage.  

I graduated from Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage in Syracuse, NY in 2001.  Additional training I have had has mostly been with James Waslaski (www.orthomassage.net); as well as with George Kousaleos (Core Institute, Elite Sports massage), Aaron Mattes and Tom Meyers.   I currently work with Capital Area Physical Therapy, as well as two premiere spas and my own home practice. 

I am representing the U.S.A. I look forward to this challenge to myself, to the competition, and the camaraderie of my fellow bodyworkers.  

The International massage Association look forward watching Michael Berkal skills at the world Championship in massage 2019 in Copenhagen in June 22-23.