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 603/4501/9
This is a fast-track intensive Sports Massage course offered as two options:
Total Beginners Option:
For those with no previous massage qualifications, the Beginners Option consists of 5 days of theory and 5 days of practical training.
Upgrade Option (for Qualified Massage Therapists & above):
For those already holding a Level 3 qualification in Massage (or equivalent), the Upgrade Option consists of 4 days of training.
This Sports Massage course provides a solid foundation for professional practice in Sports Therapy and serves as the basis for using soft tissue massage treatment techniques in a clinical setting.
The course builds on previously learned massage techniques and helps adapt them to treat not only sporting clients but also individuals experiencing mild strains and muscle tightness from everyday activities. It is the entry-level qualification required before progressing to Level 4 and Level 5 Sports Massage courses.
Please refer to our Syllabus and Exam Criteria tabs for further information.
Entry Requirements for the Beginners Option
As a beginners’ course, there are no formal prerequisites for enrolling in this Sports Massage course.
Entry Requirements for the Upgrade Option
As a qualified therapist, learners must hold an OFQUAL-accredited Level 3 Diploma in Massage, including Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology - 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 following entry requirements apply to both the above option categories:
Our Sports Massage courses are approved by VTCT (ITEC) and are recognised nationally and worldwide. 
This VTCT (ITEC) Sports Massage course (Level 3) covers all syllabus criteria required by ITEC and VTCT. Training is structured to maximise learning during online theory sessions and practical skills are developed in person through our massage classes where techniques are taught through demonstration, practice and repetition.
Techniques taught on this course include: Observation and Palpation of the Client, Effleurage, Petrissage, Friction, Tapotement, Hacking/Cupping, Vibration, Neuro-Muscular Technique (NMT), Pre/Post/Maintenance Massage, and Trigger Point Therapy.
You will perform 25 massage treatments on 5 different clients, with 5 follow-up treatments each. Guidelines and templates are provided to help you complete this, which must be done in your own time using friends, family, or colleagues.
This course incorporates techniques used in Level 3 Massage (Holistic) and teaches you how to apply them in a sports setting.
Please note: For more advanced training and treatment of specific sports injuries, practitioners will need to complete a minimum Level 4 qualification in Sports Massage.
(You may be exempt from this module if you choose the upgrade course; however, depending on your existing qualification, you may still be required to complete the theory exam.)
Topics include:
Organisation of the body
Cells
Skin
Skeletal system
Joints
Muscular system
Cardiovascular system
Respiratory system
Digestive system
Neurological/Nervous system
Endocrine system
Lymphatic system
Urinary system
Effects of sports massage on the body systems
This is a home assignment. Guidelines and templates are provided.
This is a home assignment. Guidelines and templates are provided.
This is a home assignment. Guidelines and templates are provided.
All coursework (assignments and case studies) must be completed at least one week before your final exams.
ITEC has a 3-year Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Therefore, if you have completed some of these units in another ITEC qualification within the last three years, you may be eligible to apply for exemption or mark transfer via ITEC RPL. Please contact us to find out if this applies to you.
Please view our FAQs if you have any questions.
This section outlines the assessment requirements for the VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 course in Sports Massage, including theory exams, practical assessment and coursework completion.
Structure: Multiple Choice
Number of Questions: 50
Pass Mark: 50%
Length: 55 minutes
Structure: Practical Exam
Pass Mark: 60%
Length: 45–60 minutes
Assessed by: An external examiner from ITEC
Our exams take place over two days (one day for theory and one day for practical). Your confirmed exam dates will be provided when you start the course.
A total of 25 treatments: 5 completed case studies (5 clients receiving treatment 5 times each)
1 assignment on Soft Tissue Dysfunction
1 assignment on Principles of Health and Fitness
1 assignment on Professional Practice in Sports Massage
Anatomy & Physiology revision — please allow ample time for this
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 Sports Massage techniques
Progress to further advanced massage training, such as:
Course Dates:
Part 1) 6th - 10th July (Online Zoom, 9:30am - 5:00pm approx.)
Part 2) 16th - 20th July (Kings Cross, 9:30am - 5:00pm approx.)
Exam: 29/09/2026 & 30/09/2026 (TBC)
Course Dates:
Part 1) 17th - 20th July (Online Zoom, 9:30am - 5:00pm approx.)
Exam: 29/09/2026 & 30/09/2026 (TBC)
To start training in sports massage in the UK you do not need a degree. Most learners begin with a Level 3 Sports Massage qualification which provides the foundational skills in anatomy, physiology and hands-on treatment. This is the minimum level required to practice professionally and gain insurance.
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.
No. A degree is not required to become a sports massage therapist. Regulated vocational qualifications at Levels 3–5 are the recognised professional route in the UK and are accepted by insurers, employers and sports organisations.
Yes. Sports massage is open to anyone aged 18+ with an interest in health, fitness or hands-on therapy. Beginner pathways are available for those with no prior experience and upgrade routes exist for qualified massage therapists, personal trainers and healthcare professionals.
Training to become a sports massage therapist typically takes approximately 3 months per level, depending on how quickly assessments and case studies are completed. Each level is designed to be completed within this timeframe, allowing students to progressively build their practical skills, clinical knowledge and professional competence.
Many students choose to complete multiple levels consecutively or begin practising after qualifying at Level 3 while continuing their professional development.
Absolutely. Accredited courses provide a recognised qualification, insurance eligibility and real career opportunities within weeks of qualifying.
Sports massage courses offer:
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.
Most therapists earn £40–£70 per hour, with experienced practitioners earning more through packages, retainers and specialist services.
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy is a professional entry-level qualification for those interested in becoming certified sports massage therapists. It provides the foundation needed to begin working in sports massage and to progress to Level 4 and Level 5 Sports Massage qualifications.
This qualification is designed for learners who want to work within the massage industry, either as employees or self-employed practitioners.
It is a fast-track, intensive course and our massage classes are structured in two parts:
Part 1: 5 days of theory (Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Complementary Therapists)
Part 2: 5 days of practical massage training (massage techniques and full body routine)
FHT, BCMA, IGCT, IICT Accredited Course
ITEC Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Course
FHT, IGCT, CMA, BCMA & IICT Accredited Course
Search...
Introduction
Syllabus
FAQ
Course Date
