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 VTCT ITEC Level 3 Sports Massage Upgrade course is designed for qualified massage therapists who want to add sports massage to their professional practice.
This accredited upgrade course in London is suitable for therapists who already hold a Level 3 Massage qualification or equivalent. Training focuses on adapting existing massage skills for sports massage, including observation, palpation, soft tissue techniques, treatment planning and the safe use of sports massage in a clinical or professional setting.
The course provides a recognised Level 3 Sports Massage qualification and creates a clear progression route to VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Sports Massage and VTCT (ITEC) Level 5 Sports Massage training.
On successful completion, learners gain the VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage. This provides a recognised foundation for professional sports massage practice and progression to Level 4 Sports Massage and Level 5 Sports Massage qualifications. Students are also able to continue onto doing CPD courses such as Deep Tissues Massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Spinal Articulation & Mobilisation course, Advanced Therapeutic Massage, Trigger Point & Stretch Massage Therapy as well as Dynamic Assisted Stretching.
The course provides a shorter route for already qualified massage therapists.
| Course Detail | Course Information |
| Qualification | VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy |
| Qualification number | 603/4501/9 |
| Location | London School of Massage, Kings Cross/Caledonian Road |
| Upgrade route | 4 practical training days |
| Learning format | Guided face-to-face practical training |
| Assessment | Theory examination, practical examination, assignments and case studies |
|
Included |
Course materials and examination fees |
| Progression | Level 4 Sports Massage and Level 5 Sports Massage |
Please refer to our Syllabus and Exam Criteria tabs for further information.
CLICK HERE TO SEE A FLOW CHART FOR PROGRESSION IN THIS SPORTS MASSAGE COURSE
Qualified massage therapists, holistic massage therapists, bodyworkers and relevant health or fitness professionals.
This course is ideal for qualified massage therapists who want to upgrade to Level 3 Sports Massage, expand their treatment skills and progress towards further training such as VTCT (ITEC) Sports Massage Level 4 and VTCT (ITEC) Sports Massage Level 5 Sports Massage qualifications.
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Sports Massage Upgrade Course in London is designed for qualified massage therapists who want to expand their skills and gain a recognised sports massage qualification. Students will build on their existing body massage experience and develop the knowledge, confidence and practical techniques needed to work safely and effectively as a sports massage therapist.
This upgrade course focuses on the assessment, treatment and management of soft tissue tension, muscular dysfunction and exercise-related discomfort. Students will learn how to apply sports massage techniques for maintenance, recovery, pre-event and post-event situations, while developing a clear understanding of anatomy, physiology, contraindications, treatment planning and professional practice.
London School of Massage is an established massage training provider in London, offering professional, practical and industry-focused training since 1994. This VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Sports Massage Upgrade course is designed for qualified massage therapists who want to expand their skills, gain a recognised sports massage qualification and progress into more advanced clinical training.
Students are taught by experienced tutors with strong clinical and teaching backgrounds. The course helps learners adapt their existing massage skills for sports massage practice, with a focus on safe technique, client assessment, treatment planning and the effective use of sports massage methods for active clients, general muscular tension and maintenance care.
This qualification provides a clear progression route to VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Sports Massage and VTCT (ITEC) Level 5 Sports Massage, making it ideal for therapists who want to develop their career, work with a wider range of clients and build a stronger professional profile.
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 for this course:
Our Sports Massage courses are approved by VTCT (ITEC) and are recognised nationally and worldwide. 
This VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Sports Massage Upgrade Course in London is designed for qualified body massage therapists who want to gain a recognised sports massage qualification. The course builds on existing massage skills and focuses on assessment, treatment planning and the safe application of sports massage techniques.
Techniques taught on this course include: observation and palpation of the client, Effleurage, Petrissage, Friction, Tapotement, Hacking/Cupping, Vibration, Neuro-Muscular Technique (NMT), pre-event, post-event and 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 completed in your own time using friends, family or colleagues.
This course builds on massage techniques and applies them within a sports massage 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.
Anatomy & Physiology Exam Exemption
You may be exempt from completing the Anatomy and Physiology module, depending on your existing qualification. However, some learners may still be required to sit the theory exam, depending on the qualification already held and the date it was achieved.
Learners have two options:
Please note: if an exemption is granted, students will only receive a “Pass” grade on their final certification.
This home assignment helps learners understand the professional standards required when working as a sports massage therapist. It covers areas such as client care, communication, consultation, health and safety, professional boundaries, record keeping and working within scope of practice. Guidelines and templates are provided to support completion.
This home assignment introduces learners to the key principles of health, fitness and exercise. Students explore how lifestyle, activity levels, training principles and general wellbeing can affect the body and influence sports massage treatment planning. Guidelines and templates are provided to support completion.
This home assignment develops learners’ understanding of soft tissue dysfunction and how it may affect movement, performance and recovery. Students look at common causes of soft tissue problems, signs and symptoms, the healing process and how sports massage may support appropriate treatment goals. Guidelines and templates are provided to support completion.
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 VTCT / 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.
Learners may be exempt from the Anatomy and Physiology exam if they hold a current Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Anatomy and Physiology qualification completed within the last 3 years.
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 practical exam date 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 Professional Practice in Sports Massage - iUSP150 Professional Practice in Sports Massage
1 assignment on Principles of Health and Fitness - iUSP174 Principles of Health and Fitness
1 assignment on Soft Tissue Dysfunction - iUSP181 Understand the Principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction
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 on to:
Open their own private practice, treating clients from home
Work in health clubs, spas, 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) 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
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Introduction
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