Biomechanics is the study of how the movement of living crea­tures is affected by both internal and external factors, such as neurological input, muscle–tendon interactions, gravity, and physical strain on the body. Body mechanics is the efficient and effective use of your body while performing massage. It is important to be concerned with body mechanics for two reasons. First, many clients have muscular and soft tissue pain and tension as a result of poor posture, restricted movement, or repetitive stress injuries (RSIs). Understanding how clients have developed their pain patterns allows you to help them pre­vent the development of pain patterns in the future. Ask clients about excessive or restricted movement patterns they encoun­ter on a daily basis and how they move their body repetitively. Their answers will provide you with information about how the clients’ bodies have compensated as a result of these move­ment patterns and give you clues for target areas for massage treatment. Second, in order to achieve longevity in your mas­sage career, you must move your body in an efficient and effec­tive manner to minimize the risk of discomfort, pain, or injury.