The London School of Massage offers professional massage training and complementary therapy courses.
Contact us to learn more about our courses, events, and industry news.
The London School of Massage offers professional massage training and complementary therapy courses.
Contact us to learn more about our courses, events, and industry news.
Qualification Code: QAN 603/4499/4
This course is open to all practitioners holding an ITEC Sports Massage (Level 4) qualification or an equivalent or higher qualification.
It is a fast-track intensive course, delivered via face-to-face learning.
This course is ELCAS-approved, and those eligible can apply through the ELCAS scheme using provider number 11265.
Entry Requirements
Students must hold an OFQUAL-accredited (or equivalent) Level 4 qualification in Sports Massage - or an equivalent or higher qualification.
If you are unsure, please email us a copy of your qualifications, and we will advise whether they are accepted for this course.
The course involves written and computer-based work; therefore, students are required to have access to a PC or laptop.
The recommended level of English for overseas students is IELTS Level 6–7 or equivalent, although this is not a strict requirement.
Applicants must be over 18 years of age.
Our VTCT (ITEC) Sports Massage Level 5 courses are approved by one of the following accrediting or insuring bodies:
The Sports Massage Level 5 practical examination allows you to demonstrate advanced assessment, treatment planning and hands-on sports massage skills in a professional setting. It builds on your previous Level 4 Sports Massage training, with a stronger focus on clinical reasoning, confidence and professional application.
iUSP158: Conduct complex assessments for Sports Massage
iUSP161: Provide complex massage techniques for Sports Massage
iUSP161 – Research and Critically Evaluate Complex Assessment Techniques
iUSP158 – Conduct a Review on Research Undertaken on Sports Massage Therapy
These are written home assignments. We provide guidelines and templates to help you complete them.
The peripheral nervous system – dermatomes & myotomes
Assessment of the peripheral nervous system – reflexes and power testing
Pathophysiology of common neurological conditions
The normal gait cycle and its variations
Specific orthopaedic tests for various body regions
Advanced treatment of acute & chronic injuries, including complex techniques such as:
Myofascial Release Techniques (MRT)
Positional Release Techniques (PRT) / Strain-Counterstrain
Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) – variations
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)
Active Isolated Stretching
Passive articulation of major joints
Various aftercare methods
All coursework (assignments and case studies) must be completed one week before your final practical exam (at the latest).
There is no theory exam for Sports Level 5 Massage. Find more information under the Exam Criteria tab.
Please view our FAQs if you have any questions.
ITEC Level 5 Certificate in Sports Massage Exam Criteria
Practical (Sports Massage)
Structure: Practical Exam
Pass Mark: 60%
Length: 60 minutes
Assessed by an external examiner from ITEC.
Your confirmed date will be given when you start the course.
Coursework will include:
All coursework must be completed at least one week before your final exams.
Having trained thousands of students, London School of Massage has many success stories, and our students have gone onto:
Open their own private practice, treating clients from home
Work in health clubs, hotels, or ski resorts abroad
Offer mobile massage treatments
Treat clients using advanced Sports Massage techniques
Course Dates:
Part 1) 22nd - 26th June (Kings Cross, 9:00am - 4:30pm approx.)
Exam: 31/07/2026 (TBC)
Course Dates:
Part 1) 22nd - 26th June (Kings Cross, 9:00am - 5:00pm approx.)
Exam: 28/08/2026 (TBC)
A Level 5 Sports Massage Diploma is equivalent to a foundation-degree level qualification (RQF Level 5) in the UK. It represents advanced clinical training in injury assessment, rehabilitation planning and long-term management of musculoskeletal conditions. Level 5 practitioners work at a clinical and rehabilitative level, often alongside physiotherapists and osteopaths.
A Level 5 Sports Massage qualification is the highest regulated sports massage award available in the UK. It enables therapists to:
It is suitable for therapists progressing beyond routine massage into advanced remedial and rehabilitative practice.
The highest vocational certification for massage therapists in the UK is:
Academically, some therapists may progress further into degrees in Osteopathy, Physiotherapy or Sports Therapy, but within massage therapy itself Level 5 is the professional ceiling.
Most therapists earn £40–£70 per hour, with experienced practitioners earning more through packages, retainers and specialist services.
The cost of a sports massage therapy course varies depending on the level and training pathway you choose. Up-to-date course fees, start dates and payment options are listed on the London School of Massage website, ensuring you have the most accurate and current information before booking.
If you are unsure which level is right for you, our team is happy to advise prior to enrolment.
To work as a sports massage therapist in the UK you typically need:
Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy (entry level)
Level 4 Sports Massage for advanced injury assessment and clinical work
Level 5 Sports Massage advances on the training from Sports Massage Level 4 and develops further advanced skills
At London School of Massage, students can progress through Levels 3, 4 and 5 with VTCT and ITEC accredited qualifications that meet insurance and industry requirements.
VTCT (ITEC) Sports Massage Course (Combined) Level 3 Diploma (RQF)
ITEC Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Course
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