Beauty School, Career Dreams, Massage Therapy

Career Dreams: Sports Massage Therapist

Do you love sports? Maybe you considered playing a sport for a living, but realized the physical strain just doesn’t work for you. A sports massage therapist is a great option for those wanting to help others realize their potential athletic ability. Read more to discover how this career choice can help balance your passion for sports and helping others!

What is a Sports Massage Therapist?

A sports massage therapist is someone who is qualified to provide massage therapy with a specialization for people involved with sports. They work with a variety of people, ranging from professional athletes to those who enjoy a light game of soccer over the weekend.

What Skills Does a Sports Massage Therapist Need?

In addition to being qualified for massage therapy, a sports massage therapist needs to know how sports affect the body and accommodate for the client when needed. Sports massage therapists should know:

Basic anatomy of the body
Knowledge of muscles
How to treat specific injuries
Be able to guide clients on stretches and overall relaxation
Communication skills
Flexible schedule (if traveling with a team)

With sports come injuries and a sports massage therapist needs to be able to communicate with a client and adjust accordingly. Become familiar with how to provide the best relaxation for your client.
Athletes push their bodies to the limit, so be ready to become their much-needed relaxation session. Communication is key for a sports massage therapist. Talking with your client will ensure that you are working their muscles without it becoming too painful for them. A calm and ensuring voice can make all the difference for your client. Make sure you encourage your client by working through breathing exercises and relaxation methods. An injury can be scary for an athlete, but with your help it can become the recovery for bigger and better things!

Male message therapist massaging a client's thigh

Where Can a Sports Massage Therapist Work?

Sports massage therapists can work in a variety of places including:

Sports Clinics
Hospitals
High schools and colleges
On the road with a sports team
Gyms

The possibilities of where you work can depend on you! In Michigan there are a variety of professional sports teams like the Detroit Lions, Pistons, and Red Wings. Who knows where this career can take you? Whether you want to work with teens who are still at school or a professional team on the road, this career can allow your passions of sports and assisting others to come together!