Why become a sports massage therapist?
As a sports massage therapist, you will encounter people from all walks of life who will have many different reasons for requiring treatment. This could include a sports team or an individual athlete, who require a therapist for pre and post event treatments, fitness enthusiasts who need treatment that will complement their training, to a tradesperson who needs treatment following long periods of physical exertion. For all of these clients, you will be providing a means for which they can continue performing their passion or everyday tasks, whether you are improving the functioning of muscle tissue or helping to alleviate pain.
With each client you take on, you will learn to treat and find solutions to a range of issues within different areas of the body, ensuring you are continually growing and developing your practices. You will also see improvements in your clients from the treatment they receive from you. Sports therapists are often self-employed, meaning that you will be able to work the hours that suit you and build your brand with your own vision.
What does a sports massage therapist do?
Marketing
Carry out business planning
Fitness assessment
Client screening and consultation
Provide sports massage therapy treatments for a range of issues
Providing support and guidance
Providing post-treatment advice
Recording of client progress
Referring clients where necessary
Liaising with clients
Maintaining financial records
How do I become a sports massage therapist?
To become a sports massage therapist, you have to complete the level 3 diploma in sports massage therapy course which includes units such as anatomy and physiology, principles of health and fitness, understanding soft tissue dysfunction and sports massage treatments. You may choose to then complete the level 4 certificate in sports massage therapy
Where would I be based?
You would work in gym, health clubs, spas, complimentary therapy clinics, sport centres, cruise ships and hotels or freelance on a mobile basis or within your own clinical setting. You may work for a team or an individual athlete, which may mean travelling to away venues as well as working from the venues in which they train and compete.
What am I likely to get paid?
£25- £50 per hour. Larger cities may allow you to operate at a higher charge.
What hours would I work?
Hours tend not to be set and will include early mornings, evenings and weekends. Hours depend on the demand for your services.
What are my career progressions?
Progression routes include physiotherapy or running a complimentary therapy clinic. You may want to expand your offering, by training within other complimentary therapies or as a gym instructor or personal trainer.