best for bigger clients?

[shh]

Which massage chair is best for bigger clients? Most of the chairs I am seeing only have a 300lb weight limit.

I am wanting to buy a chair, but I have limited funds. I am searching for one for $230 or less. I would love the strong lite, but its just to expensive for me right now. I need one that will hold someone bigger then 300 lbs. My husband weighs about 290-300, and I will be using it a lot on him as well as other clients that are on the big side. I'm just starting out and this will be my first chair.

I have searched and searched, and when I think I find something, then I read the reviews on yahoo and see several complaints. I need someone to help make a decision for me. I have been at this for a month now. Isn't that horrible!

Thanks

 

[cailyn]

The only thing I can suggest is to figure out 3-4 chairs you would like that would fit your needs and go to Craigslist or other classified ad places and ask if anyone is selling that chair at a reduced cost. Shortly after I got out of school I found another massage therapist who was willing to sell me her chair at 1/3 of what she paid for it.

 

[bones50]

If that is your budget, then I agree with previous poster: find a used chair. Generally, they are not used very long, or seldom used while they were owned and "age" nicely.

The massage chairs at the school have been there for years. They are not showing ANY visible wear (all brands) but the bargain chairs have some structural problems. Mostly, the arm rests aren't holding, but there are problems with the face cradle knobs being stripped. Come to think of it, the knobs are also a problem on the Stronglites.

I recommend Oakworks Portal Pro. I have a semi-regular client who is 6'4" and exceeds 300#. I find no stress to the chair (no bowing or unusual creaking), plus the client states that he is comfortable & the chair feels sturdy.

Between school and my practice, I have used 6 different brands of massage chairs, and this is by far my top choice.

edit: ps. Don't read reviews. For every person that loves a product, there is one that hates it, and (sadly) people tend to complain more than compliment.