An apparatus and method for measuring a manual force that uses a pad that simulates human or animal body tissue and a sensor configured to receive the force. The pad can have the shape of a body part and can have different materials that have different hardnesses. The apparatus can have interchangeable pads and identify individual users for training purposes, such as for training massage therapists. The apparatus can indicate whether an applied force is within a predetermined range. Also a method of defining a standard or protocol for training and/or performing touch manipulations by applying a range force to one or more persons with an algometer and establishing a protocol based on data obtained from biosensors attached to the person in order to determine which forces produce a desired effect, such as a reflexive, mechanical, or relaxation effect. The apparatus can then be used to train a provider on how to follow the standard or protocol. Also a method of controlling environmental conditions using data from one or more biosensors attached to a person to adjust an environmental condition such as room temperature or lighting in order to achieve a desired effect in the person. Also a method and apparatus of training a person to perform an activity that requires producing a force in a certain way, such as performing bicycle tricks or kneading dough. The apparatus can be shaped to simulate an object related to the activity.