If you want to study a sports massage course you will find lots of choices of training providers. This is a field which is proving increasingly popular, so there is demand for those with the right qualifications.
Of course, if you are simply learning for your own benefit, then your choice of sports massage course will be much greater, but for those with one eye on a career, then the end qualification is crucial.
Thus the sort of sports massage course you should be looking for is something like an ITEC Diploma Course, which is recognised by the Sports Massage Association (SMA) and thus widely recognized both in the UK and other countries.
Training in this area requires a combination of theoretical elements and hands on experience. You will of course have to study anatomy and physiology, so you understand the basic structure of the body, and in addition will learn more subject specific skills such as:
- Applied Anatomy: How body parts function individually and in relation to each other
- Origin, Insertion and Action of key muscles
- Injuries: Common injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, bursa and bone
- Treatment: The various techniques and how and when to use them
- Cryotherapy: The use of ice for acute injuries
- Exercise and stretching routines
Combining these theoretical and practical skills will give you the skills and knowledge you need to begin working in this growing field.
