Sports Massage Therapist
Help athletes achieve peak performance and faster recovery through specialized massage.
What Does a Sports Massage Therapist Do?
Discover what this career path involves
Sports Massage Therapists work with athletes at all levels, from weekend warriors to professional competitors, providing massage that enhances performance, prevents injury, and speeds recovery. This specialization requires deep understanding of sports physiology, common athletic injuries, and how massage integrates with training programs. Work settings include sports medicine clinics, professional sports teams, fitness centers, and private practice. The growing emphasis on athletic performance and recovery creates strong demand for qualified sports massage specialists.
Salary & Job Outlook
Financial rewards and career growth potential
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - Massage Therapists in Sports Medicine
Athletic performance and recovery are growing priorities. Sports massage therapists work with everyone from weekend athletes to professionals, enjoying strong demand and specialized expertise recognition.
Work Environment
Where you could build your career
Sports medicine clinics
Professional team facilities
University athletic departments
Fitness centers and gyms
Marathon and event medical tents
Private athletic training centers
Expect varied settings from clinical to fieldside, often with athletic energy and focused clients.
A Day in the Life
A typical week as a Sports Massage Therapist
1 of 6
Sports massage means understanding athletic performance and recovery. Game days and training schedules dictate your hours. Helping athletes perform at their peak is incredibly rewarding.
Key Skills
Skills you'll develop and use in this career
Pre-event, inter-event, and post-event massage
Deep tissue and myofascial techniques
Injury assessment and treatment planning
Athletic taping and stretching protocols
Communication with coaches and trainers
Performance optimization strategies
Requirements & Licensing
Your path to becoming licensed
["State massage therapy license", "Specialized sports massage training/certification", "Knowledge of sports physiology and kinesiology", "Understanding of athletic injuries and rehabilitation", "CPR and first aid certification", "Ability to work event schedules (evenings/weekends)"]
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Provide therapeutic massage in healthcare settings for patient recovery and wellness.
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Support holistic health through massage in integrated wellness environments.
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Build your dream practice with complete control over your therapeutic approach and business.
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Bring wellness services directly to the workplace, helping employees reduce stress and boost productivity.
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Ready to Start Your Sports Massage Therapist Career?
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Program Details
Massage Therapy Program
The training program that prepares you for a career as a Sports Massage Therapist
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