§ 10.5-1. Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and terms shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:

Approved school: Any school recognized by or approved by the State Council of Higher Education In Virginia or the Virginia Board of Nursing training students to be Certified Massage Therapists, licensed pursuant to Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, § 54.1-3029.

Certified massage therapist: Any person who administers a massage to a client, and who is qualified as a certified massage therapist pursuant to the provisions of Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, § 54.1-3029.

Client: Any person who receives a massage under such circumstances that it is reasonably expected that he or she will pay money or give any other consideration therefore.

Fitness studio/center: Any fixed establishment dedicated to improving the overall physical condition of its clientele by combining various forms of exercises that are designed to improve cardiovascular endurance, increase flexibility, enhance strength, and aid in restoring muscle tone. Bona fide fitness studios/centers employ qualified instructors certified by nationally recognized organizations, i.e., AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America).

Massage, massage therapy, and therapeutic massage: The treatment of soft tissues for therapeutic, exercise, or relaxation purposes by the application of massage and bodywork techniques based on the manipulation or application of pressure to the muscular structure or soft tissues of the human body. Massage may include rubbing, stroking, kneading, tapping, pounding, vibrating, or stimulating with the hands or any instrument, or by the application of air, liquid, or vapor baths of any kind. The terms "massage", "massage therapy", and "therapeutic massage" do not include the diagnosis or treatment of illness or disease or any service or procedure for which a license to practice medicine, nursing, chiropractic therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, acupuncture or podiatry is required.

Massage establishment: Any place where a certified massage therapist conducts his or her business and recordkeeping, regardless of whether he or she actually performs massage therapy for clients at that location.

Person: Any individual, copartnership, firm, association, joint stock company, corporation, or combination of individuals of whatever form or character.

(Ord. of 2-7-2006(2), § 4)

(Ord. of 2-7-2006(2), § 4)