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Intensive Sports Massage Courses Explained

intense sports massage therapy course

Are you looking to become a sports massage therapist and want to get qualified fast with an intensive sports massage course? Researching exactly what the course entails and what the best route to success is can be a long process, which is why we have done all the hard work for you. 

In this article we will cover:

Before we begin, why not kickstart your career with OriGym and take our Level 3 Sports Massage Therapy course. Or, download our FREE course prospectus here to find out more about what we offer.

What Is an Intensive Sports Massage Course?

An intensive sports massage course is a qualification that acts as a route to become a sports massage therapist. These courses, like it states in the name, are an intense way to study, with courses lasting as little as 5 days. 

It may seem questionable to take a basic sports massage course in just 5 days and feel industry ready, which is why we have done some digging into the various kinds of massage courses to see if that is the case. 

There are pros and cons to every kind of course, intense or not, and whilst getting qualified in a matter of days can sound appealing, many professionals will argue that sports massage training should take weeks. It is also an industry standard that a good SMT course should include a practical assessment to prepare you for working on clients. 

For example, here at OriGym, our blended learning sports massage course takes an average of 12 weeks to complete and includes modules that cover all areas of massage from anatomy and physiology to understanding the principles of soft tissue dysfunction.

Of course that isn’t all, and you can find a description of each module on our Level 3 Sports Massage course here. 

When searching for intensive sports massage courses, one thing to know is that some courses are more trustworthy than others, something which is typically indicated by the endorsement of recognised bodies - but we will get into a little more detail about this later.

For now, all you need to remember is that an intensive sports massage course consists of a short course, fast tracking through to the qualification - that's if there is an awarding certification at the end. 

If you’re thinking that completing a qualification and starting a new career in 5 days sounds too easy, you’re not wrong. There are a couple of other elements of fast track sports massage courses that you’ll need to consider, all of which we’re about to discuss below. 

Are Intensive Sports Massage Courses for You?

Some may think due to the nature of intensive sports massage courses being so short, that the fee requirement matches up, making for a cheap way to get qualified. Yet, this isn’t typically the case, as the answer to the central question is more often than not, no - in fact some intense courses are even more expensive than a course that lasts longer.

That being said, there are of course beneficial elements to this route of qualification which many are willing to pay a premium for. If you have limited time and are interested in getting qualified fast, then paying a bigger sum might well be justified. 

As with a lot of things in life, whether the extra cost is worth it is subjective to each individual, their budget, and whether the price sizes up to the service they desire. 

For example, you could work at your own pace and complete a blended SMT course and feel as though you have absorbed more information, this due to the lack of pressure and increased understanding that you receive from taking your time. However, if you view yourself as a fast learner and want the qualification quickly, there is no problem in investing into an intense course - particularly if you think you are capable. 

You will need to research exactly what you’re getting into before you invest into a course, particularly if you are paying a large sum of money. This being said, it is likely that you will be aware of the level of education you receive based on the price tag. 

To use an example of an intense course that requires prior education, this intensive sports massage course allows you to get through your qualification in just 6 days. 

However, once you read into the details of the course, you will learn that this is only possible if your education history permits it. So, completing this intense course requires you to have an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree in a chosen field, or, already be a qualified fitness professional.  

Without the correct educational requirements, which is an additional expense and time-consuming in itself, you would not be eligible for this course. 

This isn’t a minor expense either, as university degrees are much more costly, more time consuming and are a real commitment. Compare this to a blended SMT course like the one we offer here at OriGym, which you can begin with no prior experience or qualifications, and you’ll see that intense courses are neither cheaper or faster than higher quality alternatives.

In fact, as long as you’re over the age of 16, you can learn everything you need to know and be industry ready with our recognised level 3 diploma in SMT.

 

Enquire to Become a Sports Massage Therapist

Get started in the fitness industry by enquiring about our Level 3 Sports Massage Therapy Course!

Are Cheap Intense Sports Massage Courses Worth It?

So, we’ve discussed the pros and cons of paying more for an intense sports massage course, but what about the super cheap options that are advertised online?

For the intensive sports massage courses that cost significantly less than an average SMT course, be aware that these are not always Level 3 qualifications. It is always good to dig into any training course provider that is offering overwhelmingly low prices, as these low costs typically reflect a bad service, no accredited certification, and a lack of level attached to the qualification. 

For example, we did some digging and came across one company offering a sports massage practitioner course that rewards you with CPD points rather than an accredited course certificate, due to them not being Ofqual regulated qualifications. 

The low quality of the course and the fact that it does not result in a qualification that enables you to become a sports massage therapist is reflected in the price, sitting at just £29.00, a sale reduction for a price of £147.00. 

A vital thing to remember here is that you will not be able to get a job in the industry with this kind of ‘qualification’. If you are looking for a preparation course before you hit the recognised SMT qualifications, or you just want to know more about sports massage without pursuing it as a career, this would be a good option. Otherwise, these cheap courses are almost always a waste of time!

The most important thing to take into account is that if it seems too good to be true in regard to the price tag, it probably is! 

Are Intensive Sports Massage Courses Accredited?

Depending on the company, an intensive sports massage course should grant you accreditation from a reliable company, however, it can sometimes be difficult to find a provider that is fully transparent with what they are offering.

Some course providers do state that you may only get a certificate of achievement rather than an accredited reward, and are able to almost mislead customers into a course that won’t actually help them get a job in the industry. 

For example, providers of some intensive courses offer the knowledge that may be useful in preparation for a level 3 diploma in sports massage, but the only benefit of the course is knowledge, not recognition or a direct route to a career. 

Sports massage courses that you can trust should always be endorsed and regulated by an Ofqual-approved awarding or governing body. These awarding bodies include:

  • Focus Awards
  • Active IQ
  • YMCA Awards
  • NCFE
  • VTCT
  • ITec

Ofqual are The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, the governing body that ensures that qualifications received are regulated and are reliable. Ofqual set the frameworks and Levels for qualifications, and so in order for an SMT course to be advertised as a Level 3 qualification, it must be regulated by one of the companies listed above. 

Employers and companies who provide sports massage insurance will ask for proof of a regulated qualification, and so ensuring that your course is approved by an awarding-body is essential.  

If the sports massage training course that you are looking at is awarded by one of the above governing bodies, you can feel confident that your money is in safe hands. 

For more resources on getting started as a sports massage therapist, read our articles below:

 

 

Blended Learning VS Intensive Sports Massage Course

If you’re stuck between studying an intense sports massage course and spending less money yet more time on a blended learning course, here's where you can weigh up the pros and cons of each.

For this comparison, we will only discuss courses that provide level 3 sports massage courses, whether this be blended learning or intensive, ignoring courses that are unregulated and extremely inexpensive. 

A level 3 diploma in sports massage therapy is among the most popular options when trying to get into the industry of sport rehabilitation and massage. As previously mentioned, compared to the blended learning level 3 diploma, an intense course is typically more expensive and arguably more stressful.

Taking your time when trying to learn such an intricate skill is vital in this instance. The role of a sports massage therapist requires you to deal with clients who are looking to walk away refreshed with their soreness depleted, so you want to ensure you have taken every step to be prepared. 

Often, if courses are rushed you will not be able to give your clients the service they deserve. Instead, allowing time for the information to set in and putting your knowledge into practice is a good idea. So how can you go about this?

Here at OriGym, we provide an extensive course that you can start immediately due to the blended learning method. Using e-learning and online lectures, you can fit the course in around your schedule. Aswell as this, you receive 50 hours of workshop time, giving you the hands-on experience necessary to succeed.

How does this differ from an intense sports massage course? Well, many fast track courses are based solely online, disregarding the importance of hands-on learning. Though you may be provided with videos, nothing is comparable to the educational value of a teacher correcting your mistakes and ensuring you get it right.

Price point is a huge factor in deciding between the two, and understandably it may be tempting to chance a cheaper course. However, you should look at a sports massage course as an investment - something that is legit and will benefit your career, rather than undermine your ability, is well worth putting the time and effort into.

To summarise, the main pros of an intensive sports massage course are:

  • Flexible 
  • No deadlines
  • Get qualified quickly

The main pros of a regular level 3 diploma in sports massage are:

  • Longer time period to learn
  • Support from tutors
  • In person teaching / interactivity
  • Credible qualifications
  • Career support
  • Lower prices

Overall, opting for the course that suits you is dependent on what you require as a learner, and the qualifications necessary for your dream career. 

With the help of OriGym, you can also learn how to write a sports massage business plan here!

Jobs You Can Get With a Blended SMT Course VS Intensive Sports Massage Course

Taking a short sports massage course can still land you a job as a sports massage therapist, taking into account that it awards you with an accredited certification. Equally, completing a sports massage course here at OriGym can certainly ensure that you are industry ready and qualified to work as a sports massage therapist.

After carefully assessing the options available for an intense sports massage course and finding a fit that provides you with a recognised qualification, there is no doubt that you could achieve a job role as sports massage therapist (provided you have the necessary prerequisite qualifications).

In regard to intensive sports massage courses, be sure to remember that it is the quality that matters. That is why it is so important to look out for stamps of approval from recognised educational bodies and to do thorough research before choosing a provider.

Ultimately, the key thing to look out for with any sports massage course is that it is a Level 3 qualification. The bottom line is that no matter how long it takes you to complete a course, if you have a level 3 diploma in sports massage therapy at the end of it, you are eligible to get a role in the industry and get to work!

 

Enquire to Become a Sports Massage Therapist

Get started in the fitness industry by enquiring about our Level 3 Sports Massage Therapy Course!

Further Opportunities with a Sports Massage Qualification 

Not only that, but OriGym also offers a range of fitness qualifications to complement your sports massage career. Many of our students pair the Level 3 SMT qualification with the likes of a level 2 fitness instructor or a personal trainer course and go on to lead successful careers offering both services in tandem.

The sports massage training course can prepare you well for your fitness instructing journey that would follow comfortably. Getting qualified as a fitness instructor can not only up your game in the sports massage industry, but it also is a good way to get a job in a gym setting. Working in a gym typically requires a minimum of a level 2 in gym instructing, therefore getting your foot in the door with this is going to boost your reputation as a sports massage therapist. 

When being in and around the gym, you’re bound to meet friendly faces, get to know the regulars and talk to your community. All of this relationship building is great for your business whether that be personal training clients after you have achieved your level 3 in personal training, or gaining sports massage clients through a build in rapport between you and potential clients.

So, to get the edge over your competitors and show why you are the best fit for the job, from personal training to sports massage, get as many relevant fitness qualifications behind you as possible! If you’re just getting started however, why not check out our article on sports massage therapy salary and industry facts here.

FAQs

What Qualifications are Needed To Be A Sports Masseuse?

The minimum requirement to be a sports massage therapist is a level 3 diploma in sports massage. This covers all aspects of sports massage and practical workshops to get comfortable with techniques that are required for a happy client.

Though a level 3 diploma is a great starting point, you can go on to complete a level 4 and even dip into personal training. Delving into the world of fitness instruction and personal training is a great option to have under your belt, it means that not only are you more knowledgable on the body, but you can also gain another revenue stream.

Do you need a degree to be a sports masseuse?

No! While some fast track courses require a degree to get onto the course, as long as you have a qualification of a minimum level 3 in sports massage from a reliable provider, you are ready for the industry.

What skills are needed as a sports massage therapist?

To be a successful massage therapist, you should have skills that not only make you a sociable worker but also be somebody who can concentrate and work with precision.  

You’re working with people who may have injuries, so you need to be gentle yet effective with your work.

Some skills that are necessary for becoming a sports massage therapist include the following:

  • Good communication skills.
  • Listening skills.
  • Patience. 
  • Customer service skills.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Care and compassion
  • Calm attitude to work.

You should enjoy being self motivated as being self employed can be a rollercoaster so be prepared for hard work! 

Before You Go…

Now you should have come to a decision on the best route for you to head down, whether that be an intensive sports massage course or one you can study at a slower pace.. 

Whatever it may be, we hope your career takes off to a flying start! If you find completing your course in around 12 weeks seems like a realistic thing for you, check out our Level 3 Sports Massage Course. Alternatively, you can browse through our course prospectus here.

Written by Kimberley Mitchell

Editor

Having gained a B.A Hons degree in Media, Culture and Communications, Kimberley has gained experience in areas of web journalism, website production and marketing.

Alongside this, Kim expanded her knowledge and passion for fitness, by becoming a fully qualified fitness instructuor and personal trainer. Kim has also gained specialist qualifications in yoga, nutriton, spin and many more.

After working in the industry as a PT, Kimberley went on to study an MA in Digital Marketing and continues to expand her knowledge in the industry. Her main focus is to keep up with current trends and communications with a focus around health & fitness, writing and being creative.

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