I have looked through a few threads of a similar topic, but am still slightly confused about all the different qualifications available in becoming a sports masseuse.
So far, what I have found looking online is that there is a level 3, 4, and 5 in sports massage (although the level 5 is a diploma and covers remedial massage too?) but all through different examining bodies (ITEC/BTEC etc). What are the differences between the ITEC and BTEC courses?
Can you practice with just a ITEC level 3 qualification? Is it recognised?
Also noticed that there is a significant difference between "sports massage" and "sports therapy"...
I am looking for a course that will give me the first qualification in sports massage as I spend my winter's away ski instructor, therefore cannot commit to any of the level 5 courses yet.
Ideally a qualification that enables me to start practising
Hi
I can only give you a certain amount of advice being a massage and bodywork generalist (which includes sports and remedial massage).
I would worry too much about whether ITEC and BTEC. Both are industry recognised. Focus on a school that you comfortable with and reflects professional standards.
Level 3 is basically pre and post event massage. (Someone who did level 3 sports massage several years ago has a qualification that is more like todays level 4.) Level 3 is minimum standard to practice massage of any kind.
Level 4 & 5 you have more assessment tools and therapy techniques to treat injuries.
Whatever you do you will need to study level 3 anatomy and physiology.
If you want to help people and make a living, best to work towards on getting a level 5 over a period of time.
As for the difference between sports massage and sports therapy. Have a look at the Sports Therapies forum: [url]Sports Therapies - Healthypages Discussion Forums[/url]
RP
Hi RP,
Thanks for getting back to me so quickly!
So if I wanted to do a level 4 in sports massage would I have to have done the level 3 or could I go straight to a level 4 course with just level 3 in anatomy and physiology?
With some of the courses advertised by the private massage schools, you seem to be able to fast track straight to a level 4 course by doing one of their "access courses" of equivalent...I'm more likely to be going through a further education college, so in this case does the progression mostly go: level 3 anatomy and physiology, level 3 sports massage, level 4 sports massage?
Kim
You have to check each exam board for the prerequisites to enter level 4.
I personally feel a good progression route is A&P level 3 + Body Massage level 3, and then level 4 Sports Massage. The reason for Body Massage than Sports Massage at level 3 is for a more broader syllabus and experience of massage. Then with that under your belt then go for level 4 and onwards.
This is general advice not knowing your learning style and capabilities.
Since massage is a practical skill, you can never enough practice to fine tune techniques. Therapists can obtain a whole pile of paper certificates, but it's the skills and knowledge developed that speaks for itself 🙂
Hi RP,
Okay so if I take an A&P exam through VTCT ( I am abroad at the moment and there is an online distance course I can take through VTCT) does it matter if I then take a level 3 body massage course through a different examining board?
Sorry for all the questions - still a little confusing at the moment!
Kim
You may need to contact the Level 4 course provider to see if they will accept the online A&P qualification. (Not 100% sure, but I don't think there will be a problem)
It says that it won't state on the certificate that it was done online - exactly the same certification as if you were in a classroom, so I hope that will be okay!
As far as I understand VTCT level 3 in A&P is an acceptable qualification and should be transferrable, for example to ITEC.
If I'm wrong will someone come in correct me 🙂
If others are interested in this, my friend does this and been very successful with it. Just ping him an email at Quinn Massage Therapy
Hope he can help you out