Sports Massage Foundations: A Practical Introduction to Sports Massage for Massage Therapists

Sports Massage Foundations is a 7-hour introductory course designed to provide massage therapists with the knowledge and practical skills needed to begin working confidently with athletic populations. Through lecture, demonstration, discussion, and hands-on practice, participants will explore the fundamental principles of sports massage and learn how to adapt treatment approaches based on an athlete's goals, training schedule, and stage of participation.

Topics include athlete mindset and communication, the different types of sports massage, basic athlete assessment, foundational sports massage techniques, stretching applications, common athlete complaints, referral considerations, and the realities of working sporting events. Emphasis is placed on clinical decision-making, treatment planning, and understanding when and how to modify treatment rather than memorizing techniques or protocols.

Participants will develop practical skills in athlete interviewing, observation, movement screening, sports massage application, therapist-assisted stretching, and event-based treatment strategies. Multiple hands-on sessions allow students to apply course concepts in realistic sports massage scenarios.