Sports Massage Training (Level 3 & 4)

A level 4 sports massage course teaches more advanced skills and techniques than a level 3 course, meaning that therapists can perform treatments such as soft tissue release, muscle energy techniques, trigger points, and more, which help to provide quicker results than level 3 techniques.

One of the key benefits of a level 4 sports massage qualification is also the ability to screen and assess clients. Massage Therapists with qualifications below this are not able to perform this service, and their clients would need to be assessed elsewhere before having treatment.

The difference between level 3 and level 4 sports massage lies in the depth and complexity of the training, with level 4 being a more advanced and comprehensive qualification. Here's a breakdown of the distinctions:

Level 3 Certificate in Sports Massage:

1. Foundation Level: The level 3 Certificate serves as a foundational qualification in sports massage therapy.

2. Basic Skills: It covers basic principles of sports massage, anatomy, and physiology, providing students with essential skills for entry-level practice.

3. Preparation for Practice: Level 3 is designed to prepare individuals for basic practice as a sports massage therapist, typically focusing on general sports massage techniques.

4. Entry Requirement: There are often no specific prerequisites for level 3, making it accessible for those new to the field.

Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage:

1. Advanced Level: Level 4 represents an advanced stage of training, building upon the knowledge and skills gained at level 3.

2. In-Depth Anatomy and Physiology: The curriculum delves deeper into anatomy and physiology, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the human body.

3. Advanced Techniques: Level 4 introduces advanced sports massage techniques, specialised assessments, and a more nuanced approach to addressing complex musculoskeletal issues.

4. Clinical Reasoning: Students at level 4 develop higher-level clinical reasoning skills, enabling them to assess and treat a broader range of conditions.

5. Prerequisites: Many level 4 courses require completion of level 3 or an equivalent qualification as a prerequisite, ensuring students have a foundational understanding before advancing.

In summary, while level 3 establishes a solid foundation for sports massage therapy, level 4 represents a higher level of expertise with a focus on advanced techniques, in-depth anatomy and physiology, and the ability to address more complex musculoskeletal issues. Therapists often choose to pursue Level 4 to enhance their skills and offer a broader range of services in their practice.

Level 3 qualification in Sports Massage Therapy is the minimum requirement to practice as a Sports Massage Therapist. It requires no prerequisites or formal training; however, if you’re looking to work in a clinic as a Sports Massage Therapist, many employers will ask for a level 4 qualification. In addition, quite a number of professional bodies and organisations will also only allow massage therapists to join when they hold a level 4 qualification.

The length of a level 3 and 4 sports massage course will depend upon the provider. Some can be taken intensively, but on average courses can be completed in around 6-12 months. Our level 3 and 4 courses consist of 2-3 days of face-to-face training combined with pre and post online learning to further consolidate learning before a final assessment.

For those wishing to advance through level 3 and 4 as fast as possible, we also offer an accelerated course that consists of 5 days of face-to-face training combined with the online learning component.

Although there are courses out there that are exclusively online, face-to-face training is pretty much essential in order to feel confident, safe and effective in applying massage therapy in a clinical setting. Here at Breeze Academy, our level 3 and 4 courses consist of 2-3 days of face-to-face training combined with pre and post online learning to further consolidate your learning and skills.

A level 3 qualification in sports massage therapy is the minimum requirement to practice as a sports massage therapist. There are no prerequisites for this course, although most providers will require students to be 16+ to enrol. 

Although anyone can train in sports massage therapy, it helps if one or more of the following applies to you: you enjoy helping others; you’re looking for an active, non-office based job; you have an interest in sport; you’re looking to potentially take your first steps into healthcare.

The difficulty of learning sports massage can vary depending on individual factors, such as your prior knowledge of anatomy and physiology, your ability to grasp hands-on techniques, and your dedication to the learning process.

However, here at Breeze Academy, we’re with you every step of the way. As soon as you book, you’ll gain access to our online portal, meaning you can start learning immediately. In addition, our team of tutors and learner support team are easily accessible, and happy to help in any way we can.

We take complete beginners and mould them into competent sports massage practitioners, through our team of education, sports therapy and physiotherapy experts. Our sports massage training courses provide an exceptional educational experience and produces graduates head and shoulders above other newly qualified therapists.