Course Content

The Holistic Massage component includes:

• iUBT 435 – Anatomy and physiology
• iUBT 432 – Theory of Holistic Massage
• iUBT 434 – Professional conduct and business awareness.

The Sports Massage section includes:

• iUSP 160 Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Massage
• iUSP 174 Principles of Health and Fitness
• iUSP 150 Professional Practice in Sports Massage
• iUSP 181 Understand the Principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction
• iUSP 178 Sports Massage Treatments

The advanced techniques used in Sports Massage include:

• Connective Tissue Massage (CTM)
• Cross Fiber Friction
• Myofascial Massage
• Soft Tissue Release (STR)

Examinations and Certification

Diplomas awarded by iTEC

Pre-requisite: None

Examination for Sports Massage Diploma:

iUSP 160 Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Massage
55 minutes, 50 Multiple Choice Questions
iUSP 174 Principles of Health and Fitness
Assignment: explain the principles and components of an active, healthy lifestyle
iUSP 150 Professional Practice in Sports Massage
Assignment: explain the significance of maintaining a professional practice in Sports Massage
iUSP 181 Understand the Principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction
Assignment: Explain the principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction
iUSP 178 Sports Massage Treatments
Treatment evidence – 10 logged hours and 25 Case Studies, to include:
Consultation including medical history, treatment details, including pre-event, post-event & maintenance, after/home-care advice, candidates and client signature and treatment date.

Practical exam: 1 hour

Diploma in Holistic Massage Examination

Theory exams:

a) Theory of Holistic Massage 1hr multiple choice questions
b) Anatomy & Physiology 1hr multiple choice questions
c) Professional Conduct and Business Awareness 1hr multiple choice questions

20 case studies
Practical exam: 1 hour

Course Fees

Course Fee: €1,500 + Exam Fee: €150

Total cost: €1945

Standard Payment Plan:

• Deposit of €595 – to secure your place on the course
• 1st Instalment of €675 – due on the first day of the course
• 2nd Instalment of €675 – due in November

Pay in Full Discount: Pay the balance (after deposit) in full on or before the first day of your course to avail of a €100 discount.

Course Syllabus

Anatomy and Physiology:

• The Cell and tissue types
• Integumentary system, the skin and nails
• Directional terminology
• Planes of dissection
• Joint mobility and range of movement
• Skeletal system – location, structure and function including bony prominences for muscle attachments
• Muscular system – muscle properties, muscle function, muscle tone, muscle fatigue
• Study of muscles (myology) – Including origin, insertion and action of the muscles that move the body
• Cardiovascular system – systemic and pulmonary circulation
• Lymphatic system – structure and functions of the lymphatic system
• Digestive system – location, structure and function of organs and glands of the gastro-intestinal tract
• Nervous system – structure and function of nerves, C.N.S and peripheral nervous system
• Endocrine and Reproductive Systems – location , structure and function of the endrocrine glands and reproductive cycle
• Respiratory system – internal and external respiration
• Urinary system – components i.e. kidney, ureter and bladder
• Pathologies associated with each system

Holistic Massage:

• History of Massage
• Preparation / Equipment for Massage
• Definition of the strokes of Massage [including effleurage, petrissage, tapotment, friction and vibration]
• Sequence of strokes [Full body, Facial, Scalp and Foot massage]
• Effects and Benefits of Massage [mechanical; physiological; reflex effects; psychological and energetic effects]
• Cautions, Contra-indications and Endangerment sites to consider when applying massage techniques.
• Nutrition – understanding the effects of stress on the client’s nutritional status
• Care of the therapist – posture, safe application of techniques, body mechanics
• Care of the client – record keeping, confidentiality, professionalism
• Business awareness / professionalism – how to establish & promote your massage business
• First Aid
• Relaxation – simple techniques for real relaxation. Learn how to contact the healing energy in the body and how to use it when doing massage

Sports Massage:

• Pre-event massage (10 minute full body treatment)
• Between event massage
• Post-event massage
• Preventative / conditioning massage
• Basic corrective massage
• Sequence of strokes (Full body pre, post and conditioning massage)
• Cautions, Contra-indications and Endangerment sites to consider when applying massage techniques.
• Nutrition – understanding the effects of exercise and stress on the client’s nutritional status
• Signs and symptoms of inflammation:
  • Degree of swelling
  • Variation in tissue temperatures
  • Muscle tone and bulk
  • Adhesions
• Record Keeping
  • Taking a case history
  • Monitoring treatment outcomes
  • Home care
• Effects and benefits of stretching
  • Advantages of Active Isolated Stretching
  • Restoring muscle balance
• Effects and benefits of Sports Massage
  • Methods of application
  • Contraindications
  • Palpation and physical assessment
  • Care of the therapist – posture, safe application of techniques, body mechanics
  • Care of the Client – Home care and rehabilitation exercises
  • Contra indications to Sports Massage

Course Requirements

Each Student Requires

• 2 Pillows
• 2 Pillow Cases
• 2 Towels
• A uniform is required for the practical examination:
  • Black tunic
  • Black trousers
  • Black footwear

Recommended Books

• An Introductory Guide to Massage By Louise Tucker
• An Introductory Guide to Anatomy and Physiology (new edition) By Louise Tucker