ITEC Level 5 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy

What is the course about?

Want to develop your sports and remedial massage skills from level 4? Want to update your skills and knowledge in treating injuries? This in depth training will enable you to advance your practice and gain the highest level of training in the UK, recognised by learning professional associations (Sports Massage Association, Sports Therapy Association) and give you the confidence to work with a variety of clinical professionals and injuries.

What will we cover?

This course will expand your knowledge of functional anatomy (including neurological structures), soft tissue injuries, how to perform complex clinical testing and to explore literature to reinforce your treatment approach. You will learn a range of advanced massage techniques such as positional release, muscle energy techniques, active isolated stretching, myofascial release and much more. The ultimate aim of this level is to enhance your practice in the sports and remedial massage sector. Upon completion you will have attained the highest level recognised sports massage qualification in the UK.

The course is composed of two units:
iUSP158 Conduct complex assessments for sports massage
This unit will expand upon your knowledge from completing the level 4 certificate in sports massage, you will learn a range of complex clinical assessments to give you further confidence when treating injured clients.

iUSP161 Provide complex massage techniques for sports massage
The aim of this unit is to build upon your knowledge from level 4, giving you confidence in applying a range of advanced soft tissue techniques such as positional release, myofascial release and advanced muscle energy techniques. You will also develop your appreciation for an evidence informed approach to treating and how this can support your client care.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

The following intended learning outcomes are not exhaustive:
- Understand neurological presentations (including dermatomes, myotomes and testing).
- Describe and confidently discuss a selection of neurological injuries.
- Understand sports specific posture and gait and to analyse findings.
- Confidently explore evidence based practice and reflect upon literature.
- Understand and to perform complex case history and assessment taking.
- Confidently apply specialised soft tissue techniques.
- Consolidate your learning and autonomous practitioner ship.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is set at level 5, you must have successfully completed the “ITEC/VCTC Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage” or equivalent. You will be required to complete a portfolio of coursework which will be submitted to ITEC at the end of your studies. This will include case studies and assignments which will require time outside of the classroom to complete.

You will be expected to engage with the online resources throughout this course via our virtual learning platform (Google Classroom). Please ensure you have access to a computer and are familiar with accessing Google to ensure you get the most from your training.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

This course will use a variety of teaching methods to ensure your learning is interactive and effective. One method use is ‘flipped learning’, you will access the online content in preparation for each session. This approach will enable a deeper level of learning to take place in the classroom though a variety of activities including games, quizzes, small group activities and projects.
Along with in class materials you will also keep a personal learning plan which will show your journey through your training.
You will sit an end of course practical exams which is set by ITEC, you will also build your portfolio of evidence through completing set assignments, case studies and in class tests.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

For practical sessions City Lit will supply towels, pillows and related laundry which is used in class. You will be required to bring the following:
Massage media (oil, wax, lubricant etc)
Appropriate clothing to give and receive treatment (shorts, vest is idea to bring as we will be performing examinations on each other)
Pens and note paper for making notes, you are welcomed to bring your smart device if you prefer to make electronic notes.
The tutor has developed a range of resources to support your learning, this will be shared through your training. Additional reading to support your learning is listed below:
Sports Massage
Sports and Remedial Massage - Mel Cash
Advanced Remedial Massage and Soft tissue Therapy - Mel Cash

Functional Anatomy
Concise book of muscle - Chris Jarmey
Ross and Willson, Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness - Anne Waugh, Allison Grant.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

CPD training (ITEC Level 4 Award in Dry Needling)
A natural progression includes undergraduate studies in Physiotherapy, Osteopathy or Chiropractic medicine.