by 
Most people think that athletes are superhumans however the truth is that they are really vulnerable as they can easily get injured.
Moreover, they tend to get the same injures constantly as they use the same groups of muscles all the time.
That’s why they need some really good sports massage therapy.
It helps them recover, reduce fatigue, and perform great results.
Popular Programs
According to Scott Hamilton, 1984 Olympic gold medalist and 2015 American Massage Therapy Association national conference keynote speaker, good massage therapy can make an athlete’s career longer.
There are numerous sports professionals that have numerous reason to be thankful to massage therapists.
Also, there are lots of massage therapists that have lots of reasons to be thankful to professional athletes’.
A career in sports massage therapy is a great option for those who want to get involved in professional sports but cannot become an athlete.
Some athletes have their personal massage therapists that travel with them around the world.
Also, they may work in special facilities that provide care for professional athletes.
There are various types of sports massage therapy including such options as pre- or post-event sessions, maintenance between events, rehabilitation after injury.
Just keep in mind that sports massage therapists should work with numerous health professionals.
In other words, it is a great option for real team players.
Sports Massage Credentialing
As a sports massage therapist, you need to have a state license in massage therapy.
Usually, to get your license, you need to complete about 500-1000 hours of post-secondary training and pass an examination.
Speaking of specialty licensing, there is no specific license but you can obtain some certifications related to sports massage including such options as myofascial techniques.
The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) together with an international credentialing organization, ITEC, provide sports massage course at NCBTMB-approved schools.
In such a way, students can get some additional credentials through ITEC.
In the nearest future, even more, programs in sports massage may appear.
Breaking into the Sports Massage Industry
The American Massage Therapy Association provides detailed information for those who are interested in a sports massage career.
It includes some useful pieces of advice including disciplines required for sports massage therapists.
Among the most important subjects, there are anatomy, physiology, body mechanics, and so on.
The list of other important aspects includes excellent communication skills and people savvy.
Visiting the AMTA website, you can get some useful pieces of advice from a professional sports massage therapist Joana Brown.
According to her, the main point is massage therapists can do more than just read the job ads while looking for a job.
In fact, they are able to create various opportunities on their own.
For example, you can approach various professional teams asking them whether they need a massage therapist.
Of course, you should be ready for rejection as it’s not so easy to get a job.
If you need some workings experience, you can volunteer during sports events.
If you are a student, you can try to get some practice during events where AMTA sports teams perform.
In case, it isn’t allowed in your state, you can be provided with a bunch of other possibilities.