How to Become a Sports Massage Therapist

Becoming a sports massage therapist can be a rewarding, challenging and satisfying career. This guide will determine if becoming a sports massage therapist is right for you and how to become one if it is a good career fit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Find out if massage therapy is right for you. A good massage therapist will typically be a people person. You should enjoy helping others feel better and helping them reach their potential. Good communication skills are also needed. If you fit these requirements perhaps becoming a sports massage therapist is the career for you.
2. Find out what the local requirements are for becoming a massage therapist in your area. Determine what local government agencies regulate the massage therapy industry.
3. Get the proper training. Find a school training program that offers sports massage therapy. Make sure the school meets the educational requirements for the area you wish to work.
4. After completing your training look for jobs where there are many athletes. Look in such places as health clubs, colleges and sports medicine clinics. Spas are also in demand for sports massage therapists.

Tips & Warnings

• As you are getting your training, volunteer your services to get "hands on" experience. Volunteering will also help build contacts and clients that you will need later.
• Learn many different types of massage techniques and always keep informed of new techniques in the field of massage.