Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy

Sports massage therapy involves the use of individual client assessment, massage, related soft tissue techniques and post treatment advice to manage, manipulate and rehabilitate the various soft tissues of the body. It can be applied to alleviate a variety of aches and pains whether they arise in a sporting or recreational context or simply from the stresses of modern life.

There has never been a more exciting time to get a recognised qualification in sports massage therapy. Driven by the increasing demand for sports massage among sports participants the Premier Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy has been designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge that they will require to succeed in this stimulating and rewarding profession. The course will enable graduates to assess, treat and advise all clients, at any level of health and fitness within or outside a sporting context.

Delivered through a progressive programme of theory and practical sessions by highly qualified and experienced trainers the course is designed to meet National Occupational Standards and the requirements of the Sports Massage Association, the UK professional body representing sports massage practitioners and the profession.

Qualifications

• Premier Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy
• Active IQ Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy

Course Content

• Clinical issues - safe treatment, sports massage regulation, professionalism and ethics, continuing professional development and communication skills
  
  
• Anatomy and physiology of the major body systems with in-depth knowledge of the musculoskeletal system
  
  
• Sports massage techniques including palpation, basic strokes, neuromuscular and muscle energy techniques and soft tissue release
  
  
• Assessment of clients, joint and muscle testing, assessment of posture, profiling and appropriate record keeping
  
  
• Soft tissue damage and repair - injury occurrence and treatment
  
  
• Post-care advice - supporting clients'return to function

Entry Requirements
Ideally, 4 GCSE's and 1 'A' level, or similar academic qualification. There is an element of communication (discussing, presenting, reading and writing) involved and candidates should have basic skills in communication pitched at Level 3. Performing sports massage therapy is a physical activity and candidates will need to be fit enough to carry this out. You will need a CPR certificate to practice as an insured sports massage therapist but you do not need one to take this course. Minimum age, 16.

Length and Format of Course
The course is run over approximately 9 months and is generally taught over 10 weekends with one assessment weekend. Between workshops students will be required to complete home study and a log book detailing practice time. This format allows students to practice techniques learnt at each stage of the course and gain real experience before moving on to the next level of technique application.

The course is supported by online learning materials, including a video library of individual technique application. Tutor support will be available throughout the course.