Rich Schumann, Massage Therapist
Rich Schumann is a Madison native that has spent most of his career helping others enjoy the freedom of bicycling for transportation, and recreation. He pursued his goal of becoming a certified massage therapist after experiencing the many benefits of massage. Rich obtained his certification and education through Lakeside School of Massage Therapy. Rich incorporates Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy to decrease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and improve recovery time. Bicycling, and cross country skiing with his family and friends are his favorite activies. Rich is excited to partner with Inner Fire Yoga® Center by providing massage therapy to its community.
Q & A with Rich
Why did you choose massage therapy?
I received my first professional massage over ten years ago, and I was amazed at the benefits I received from one appointment. My first massage gave me a new awareness of muscles that I had not felt before, and convinced me to learn more about massage as a career, and to share the rewards of massage therapy. I graduated from Lakeside School of Massage Therapy in January 2008, and I have been working at IFY since April, 2008.
What did you do before massage therapy?
I have worked twenty years in the bicycle industry, as a printing press operator, commercial sheet metal, and even at Capitol brewery. The different experiences I have from a variety of jobs, have given me an appreciation having a career that contributes to the well being of others.
Do you practice yoga?
Yes, I am a big fan of the Hot Yoga classes. When I took my first yoga class, I thought I was in o.k. shape, being a bicyclist, and cross country skier. My first class was a humbling experience, and every class I’ve taken since then has been humbling too! Yoga, like massage has given me a better mind-body awareness. The improvement in my cross country skiing was noticeable, as I was able to ski in the American Birkebeiner last year, and still match my personal best time for the first time in ten years.
What style of massage do you do?
I develop treatment plans based on an individuals needs using Swedish massage as my base. I incorporate deep tissue, trigger point, and connective tissue for both sports massage, relaxation, and therapeutic strategies. I appreciate that every one has different goals on any given day, and try to tailor every massage to each individuals best benefit.
I thank all the people who have given me the chance to grow my massage practice at IFY.
