World Championship Massage 2025

Next Championship June 27 – June 29 2025 in Copenhagen

LearningNews

The Muscles of the Shoulder and Arm: Why Massage is Essential  

The shoulder and arm are among the most versatile and active parts of the body, enabling a wide range of movements from lifting and pushing to fine motor skills. This mobility is made possible by a complex network of muscles, tendons, and joints. However, due to their constant use and exposure to repetitive strain, the shoulder and arm muscles are prone to tension, stiffness, and injury. Massage plays a crucial role in maintaining their health and function, making it an indispensable treatment for both prevention and recovery.  

Anatomy of the Shoulder and Arm Muscles 

The Shoulder Muscles

The shoulder is a highly mobile joint supported by several key muscle groups, including:  

1. Deltoid:  

   – Located on the outer part of the shoulder, the deltoid muscle is responsible for lifting the arm in various directions, including abduction, flexion, and extension. 

2. Rotator Cuff Muscles:  

   – A group of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for rotational movements. These muscles are essential for overhead activities.  

3. Trapezius:  

   – Extending from the neck to the upper back, the trapezius helps with shoulder elevation, retraction, and rotation.  

4. Levator Scapulae and Rhomboids:  

   – These muscles support the movement and stabilization of the shoulder blades, playing a key role in posture.  

The Arm Muscles

The arm consists of two main sections: the upper arm and the forearm. Key muscles include:  

1. Biceps Brachii:  

   – Located on the front of the upper arm, the biceps are responsible for elbow flexion and forearm supination.  

2. Triceps Brachii:  

   – Found on the back of the upper arm, the triceps are involved in elbow extension. 

3. Brachialis and Brachioradialis:  

   – These assist in flexing the elbow and stabilizing forearm movement.  

4. Forearm Muscles:  

   – These include flexors and extensors that control wrist and finger movements, enabling grip strength and fine motor skills.  

Why Massage is Essential for the Shoulder and Arm  

The muscles of the shoulder and arm are subjected to constant use in daily activities, often leading to tension, discomfort, or reduced mobility. Here’s why massage is crucial for maintaining the health of these areas:  

1. Relieves Muscle Tension and Pain

Tight or overworked muscles in the shoulder and arm can result in discomfort, pain, or even reduced mobility. Massage helps release muscle tension by improving blood flow and breaking down adhesions (knots) in the muscle fibers.  

2. Enhances Range of Motion  

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, but tension in the surrounding muscles can restrict its movement. Massage improves flexibility in the shoulder and arm, allowing for greater ease of motion in daily activities and exercise.  

3. Prevents Injuries  

Repetitive activities, such as typing, lifting, or playing sports, can overwork specific muscles, leading to strains or tendinitis. Regular massage helps prevent these injuries by maintaining muscle balance and reducing tension in overused areas.  

4. Supports Recovery from Strain or Overuse  

Massage is highly effective in speeding up recovery from muscle strains, sprains, or overuse injuries by improving circulation and reducing inflammation in the affected tissues.  

5. Improves Posture

Tight muscles in the shoulders and upper arms can lead to poor posture, such as rounded shoulders or a forward head position. Massage releases tension in the shoulder blades and upper back, helping to restore proper alignment and posture.  

6. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation  

The shoulder and neck area are common sites for stress-related tension. Massage calms the nervous system, reduces stress hormones, and promotes relaxation, making it especially beneficial for those who carry tension in these areas.  

Common Massage Techniques for the Shoulder and Arm  

Effleurage

Gentle, gliding strokes warm up the muscles and increase circulation, preparing them for deeper work.  

Deep Tissue Massage:  

This technique uses firm pressure to target deeper layers of muscle tissue, releasing chronic tension and knots in the shoulders and arms.  

Trigger Point Therapy:  

By applying direct pressure to specific points, this technique helps release tension and alleviate referred pain, such as headaches or numbness in the arm caused by tight shoulder muscles.  

Myofascial Release:  

Gentle stretching and manipulation of the fascia (connective tissue) improve mobility and reduce stiffness in the shoulder and arm. 

Stretching and Mobilization:  

Incorporating stretching into the massage can help lengthen tight muscles, while mobilization techniques restore proper joint movement in the shoulder.  

When to Consider Shoulder and Arm Massage  

Massage for the shoulder and arm is particularly beneficial for individuals who:  

– Experience tension or pain from repetitive activities (e.g., desk work, sports, or manual labor).  

– Suffer from conditions such as frozen shoulder, tendinitis, or carpal tunnel syndrome.  

– Have poor posture or limited range of motion in the shoulders or arms.  

– Are recovering from injuries or surgeries involving the upper extremities.  

– Feel stress-related tightness in the neck, shoulders, or upper back.  

Conclusion  The shoulder and arm muscles are vital for virtually every activity, from simple tasks to complex movements. However, their constant use makes them prone to tension, overuse, and injury. Massage is an effective way to release tightness, prevent injury, and improve mobility in these areas. By incorporating regular massage into your wellness routine, you can keep your shoulders and arms functioning optimally, supporting both your posture and overall quality of life.

  • Article by IMA Founder Jeppe Tengbjerg
IMA Founder showing several award winning massage techniques of arm and shoulder

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Have you seen what our particpants have to say?

5.0
Based on 49 reviews
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Jurij Juriak
13:46 31 Jan 25
Jesus Gomez
23:07 12 Jan 25
PRASANNA GAMAGE
13:14 07 Jan 25
Thanking for IMA , Share the valuable informations.
Cornelia N
18:11 06 Jan 25
Superb quality information, a true ambassador for massage therapy!
Vlad-Florin Panait
07:13 17 Dec 24
I had an amazing weekend learning about advanced techniques of holistic massage. It was a great experience and I want to thank Kinga and Jeppe for these lessons.
Alligator Tab
10:27 16 Dec 24
Excellent experience. I was impressed after the course.
Kinga Jenei
14:26 15 Dec 24
Bridgette Mensah
05:22 02 Dec 24
I am a massage therapist and I appreciate the article in the sence that reading through refreshes my mind and has also helped me to know I'm using the right techniques in my practice and my clients are always amazed after I treat them.Thank you! So much for sharing it has been enlighten!
Nataly Werthaim
23:11 21 Nov 24
"I took an amazing massage course from IMA, which greatly enhanced my knowledge. It was very well explained and presented with high professionalism. Thank you so much, Jeppe & Kinga ❤️"
May Au
09:57 20 Oct 24
It is a great honor to receive the NMC Overall Winner Award 2024, and I am truly grateful to have Jeppe present it to me. His experience and skills are admired globally, and he is not only highly knowledgeable but also generous and supportive. I feel fortunate to learn from him and I hope we can all continue working together in the massage field to achieve great things. Thank you so much, Jeppe!
Sami Stressade
10:45 20 Sep 24
The International Massage World Championships (IMA) in Copenhagen was an extraordinary experience. It provided a unique platform to compete with the best massage therapists in the world and learn advanced techniques at the highest level.The professional exchange, the valuable feedback from the jury and the inspiring atmosphere have significantly expanded my skills. An absolute recommendation for anyone who wants to perfect their art and make international connections.A special thank you goes to Jeppe Tengbjerg, founder and CEO of the International Massage Association and organizer of the World Championships in Massage. Without his vision and commitment, this outstanding event would not have been possible.
Amanda J M.
03:52 18 Sep 24
Thank you very much for the lessons that IMA has shared with the public... this knowledge will forever be useful for me to grow even more.. hugs and kisses 💆‍♂️🌎🕊🙏😇
semenuk-t Tanya
14:45 25 Aug 24
Very interesting, informative. A colossal experience. Exchange of skills and techniques. Friendly atmosphere....❤️❤️❤️It is worth taking part in order to grow and become better.
I have attended the IMA World massage Champs since 2017, it’s a must in the June calendar each year. Go visit or compete!! Copenhagen is a great City break aswell.
Tereze Belkova
19:06 24 Apr 24
An excellent school where you can not only learn different massage techniques, but also improve your skills. A place that brings together massage professionals from all over the world by organising the World Massage Championships in Denmark.
Michael Pedersen
21:24 05 Mar 24
Huge praise for holding dm in massage 2024.Warm atmosphere, good energy and super well organised.A school that is passionate about giving students the best possible education.Can only warmly recommend the school.
Carsten Anderslund
20:12 05 Mar 24
Carl Newbury
11:28 29 Feb 24
I have been attending Jeppe's events in Copenhagen since 2017. The World Championship in Massage is the highlight of my year networking with massage therapists from all over the World. Well Done Jeppe
Victoria Bilousova
12:54 07 Feb 24
Thank you so much for an amazing World Massage Championship organized in a high level! A lot of new friends and inspiration I found there😇
It was with great pleasure to teach at your school in Denmark, I experienced a good atmosfeer, an interesting class and you as host/teacher mr. Jeppe Tengbjerg.Also thank you for the colaboration to teach at my school in Lelystad the Netherlands last year, it is of great interest to learn from each other and I welcome you again, this year in september 2024.SoeReiMas Courses & CoachingLelystad the Netherlands
Chutima Hälg
00:47 07 Feb 24
I recently had the pleasure of attending a massage seminar jointly organized by IMA Academy and Chiida Academy, and I must say it was a truly enriching experience. The seminar, led by a professional instructor, was a perfect blend of theory and practice, offering valuable insights into the art of massage therapy. The theoretical aspects covered were comprehensive and informative, providing a solid foundation of knowledge for all participants. From anatomy and physiology to various massage techniques and their applications, every aspect was explained with clarity and depth. It was evident that the instructor was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about imparting their expertise to the students. What truly stood out about this seminar was the emphasis on hands-on practice. Participants were given ample opportunities to apply the theoretical concepts they had learned in a supportive and nurturing environment. The instructor's guidance and feedback were invaluable in honing our skills and techniques. Moreover, I was impressed by the caring attitude and thoughtfulness shown towards the students throughout the seminar. From providing necessary materials to addressing individual queries and concerns, the organizers ensured that everyone felt valued and supported. I would like to extend my gratitude to Mr. Jeppe Tengbjerg for his exceptional leadership in making this seminar a resounding success. His expertise, patience, and genuine dedication to the art of massage therapy were truly inspiring.In conclusion, the collaborative effort between IMA Academy and Chiida Academy in presenting this massage seminar was commendable. It was a rewarding experience that left me feeling empowered and equipped with valuable knowledge and skills. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of massage therapy or embark on a career in this field.
Corpore Vital
16:13 06 Feb 24
Professionalism and education at the highest level. The students are very attentive and involved in the way the information is conveyed and because there is a lot of practice, the course becomes even more exciting. Congratulations for the interactive way in which you transmit the information.
Jurij Juriak
13:46 31 Jan 25
Jesus Gomez
23:07 12 Jan 25
Kinga Jenei
14:26 15 Dec 24
Bridgette Mensah
05:22 02 Dec 24
Jeg er en massageterapeut, og jeg sætter pris på artiklen i den forstand, at gennemlæsning genopfrisker mit sind og har også hjulpet mig til at vide, at jeg bruger de rigtige teknikker i min praksis, og mine klienter er altid forbløffede, efter jeg har behandlet dem.Tak! Så meget for at dele det har været oplysende!
Natalija Ilic
13:05 29 Nov 24
Fantastisk konkurrence!!!
Michael Pedersen
21:24 05 Mar 24
Kæmpe stor ros for at afholde dm i massage 2024.Varm atmosfære, god energi og super godt tilrettelagt.En skole der brænder for at give eleverne, den bedst mulige uddannelse.Kan kun på det varmeste anbefale skolen.
Carsten Anderslund
20:12 05 Mar 24
Constantin Roman
02:30 07 Jan 24
Jeg mødte Jeppe Tengbjerg for første gang ved det første World Massage Championship i 2017. Siden da har vi krydset veje mange gange, i forskellige samarbejder relateret til massageverdenen: internationale konkurrencer, danske konkurrencer, kurser, workshops, seminarer, masterclasses mv. . Her var Jeppe skaberen, arrangøren eller i det mindste var han en væsentlig faktor i dannelsen af disse værdifulde platforme for uddannelse, inspiration og promovering, for alle dem, der er involveret i massageverdenen, både som massageudbydere og som massageforbrugere.Jeppe har ydet et kæmpe bidrag til at fremme massageværdier i Danmark og verden. Der kunne siges meget om dette bidrag og om hans egenskaber som professionel og som person. Måske allervigtigst er, at Jeppe Tengbjerg er en inspiration og et forbillede. Han samler flittigt viden og erfaringer, hvorfra han skaber en kilde til ny viden og erfaring til andre og giver den videre.I dag er der allerede mange mennesker i verden, som har nydt godt af det kolossale arbejde, Jeppe konstant udfører. Jeppe er for mig et eksempel på flid, vedholdenhed og engagement.Jeg synes, at Jeppe Tengbjerg er et navn, der allerede er trådt ind i massagens historie.Vil du vide mere om Jeppes arbejde, så følg ham tæt på alle digitale kanaler, hvor han har publiceret talrige artikler og relevante materialer.Hvis du er en massageterapeut interesseret i at blive endnu bedre, så deltag i konkurrencer eller uddannelser promoveret af Jeppe Tengbjerg.Drømmer du om at blive massør, så kontakt Jeppe Tengbjerg.
Camilla Ring
11:57 03 Nov 23
Har taget flere både uddannelser og kurser hos Jeppe og har kun godt at sige om det. Jeg har været rigtig tilfreds og bruger hver dag, al min tillærte viden i min klinik ✨
Anne Breinberg
10:06 22 Sep 23
God skole med et bredt spektrum af sundhedsuddannelser - både enkeltstående og overbyggende.Jeg har tidligere taget massøruddannelsen og hvad dertil hører og er pt. i gang med zoneterapiuddannelsen.
Helene Baumann
04:35 09 Mar 23
Jeg har taget både grunduddannelsen, skadesterapeut, thai yoga massage samt sundhedsfaglig grunduddannelse hos tengbjerg massørskole og jeg er så tilfreds. Man lærer utrolig meget på kurserne og underviserne er så kompetente! Hvis man overvejer at blive massør, kan jeg på det kraftigste anbefale at man smutter til Næstved! :-)
Jurij Juriak
13:46 31 Jan 25
Jesus Gomez
23:07 12 Jan 25
PRASANNA GAMAGE
13:14 07 Jan 25
Thanking for IMA , Share the valuable informations.
Cornelia N
18:11 06 Jan 25
Superb quality information, a true ambassador for massage therapy!
Vlad-Florin Panait
07:13 17 Dec 24
I had an amazing weekend learning about advanced techniques of holistic massage. It was a great experience and I want to thank Kinga and Jeppe for these lessons.
Alligator Tab
10:27 16 Dec 24
Excellent experience. I was impressed after the course.
Kinga Jenei
14:26 15 Dec 24
Bridgette Mensah
05:22 02 Dec 24
I am a massage therapist and I appreciate the article in the sence that reading through refreshes my mind and has also helped me to know I'm using the right techniques in my practice and my clients are always amazed after I treat them.Thank you! So much for sharing it has been enlighten!
Nataly Werthaim
23:11 21 Nov 24
"I took an amazing massage course from IMA, which greatly enhanced my knowledge. It was very well explained and presented with high professionalism. Thank you so much, Jeppe & Kinga ❤️"
May Au
09:57 20 Oct 24
It is a great honor to receive the NMC Overall Winner Award 2024, and I am truly grateful to have Jeppe present it to me. His experience and skills are admired globally, and he is not only highly knowledgeable but also generous and supportive. I feel fortunate to learn from him and I hope we can all continue working together in the massage field to achieve great things. Thank you so much, Jeppe!
Sami Stressade
10:45 20 Sep 24
The International Massage World Championships (IMA) in Copenhagen was an extraordinary experience. It provided a unique platform to compete with the best massage therapists in the world and learn advanced techniques at the highest level.The professional exchange, the valuable feedback from the jury and the inspiring atmosphere have significantly expanded my skills. An absolute recommendation for anyone who wants to perfect their art and make international connections.A special thank you goes to Jeppe Tengbjerg, founder and CEO of the International Massage Association and organizer of the World Championships in Massage. Without his vision and commitment, this outstanding event would not have been possible.
Amanda J M.
03:52 18 Sep 24
Thank you very much for the lessons that IMA has shared with the public... this knowledge will forever be useful for me to grow even more.. hugs and kisses 💆‍♂️🌎🕊🙏😇
semenuk-t Tanya
14:45 25 Aug 24
Very interesting, informative. A colossal experience. Exchange of skills and techniques. Friendly atmosphere....❤️❤️❤️It is worth taking part in order to grow and become better.
I have attended the IMA World massage Champs since 2017, it’s a must in the June calendar each year. Go visit or compete!! Copenhagen is a great City break aswell.
Tereze Belkova
19:06 24 Apr 24
An excellent school where you can not only learn different massage techniques, but also improve your skills. A place that brings together massage professionals from all over the world by organising the World Massage Championships in Denmark.
Michael Pedersen
21:24 05 Mar 24
Huge praise for holding dm in massage 2024.Warm atmosphere, good energy and super well organised.A school that is passionate about giving students the best possible education.Can only warmly recommend the school.
Carsten Anderslund
20:12 05 Mar 24
Carl Newbury
11:28 29 Feb 24
I have been attending Jeppe's events in Copenhagen since 2017. The World Championship in Massage is the highlight of my year networking with massage therapists from all over the World. Well Done Jeppe
Victoria Bilousova
12:54 07 Feb 24
Thank you so much for an amazing World Massage Championship organized in a high level! A lot of new friends and inspiration I found there😇
It was with great pleasure to teach at your school in Denmark, I experienced a good atmosfeer, an interesting class and you as host/teacher mr. Jeppe Tengbjerg.Also thank you for the colaboration to teach at my school in Lelystad the Netherlands last year, it is of great interest to learn from each other and I welcome you again, this year in september 2024.SoeReiMas Courses & CoachingLelystad the Netherlands
Chutima Hälg
00:47 07 Feb 24
I recently had the pleasure of attending a massage seminar jointly organized by IMA Academy and Chiida Academy, and I must say it was a truly enriching experience. The seminar, led by a professional instructor, was a perfect blend of theory and practice, offering valuable insights into the art of massage therapy. The theoretical aspects covered were comprehensive and informative, providing a solid foundation of knowledge for all participants. From anatomy and physiology to various massage techniques and their applications, every aspect was explained with clarity and depth. It was evident that the instructor was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about imparting their expertise to the students. What truly stood out about this seminar was the emphasis on hands-on practice. Participants were given ample opportunities to apply the theoretical concepts they had learned in a supportive and nurturing environment. The instructor's guidance and feedback were invaluable in honing our skills and techniques. Moreover, I was impressed by the caring attitude and thoughtfulness shown towards the students throughout the seminar. From providing necessary materials to addressing individual queries and concerns, the organizers ensured that everyone felt valued and supported. I would like to extend my gratitude to Mr. Jeppe Tengbjerg for his exceptional leadership in making this seminar a resounding success. His expertise, patience, and genuine dedication to the art of massage therapy were truly inspiring.In conclusion, the collaborative effort between IMA Academy and Chiida Academy in presenting this massage seminar was commendable. It was a rewarding experience that left me feeling empowered and equipped with valuable knowledge and skills. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of massage therapy or embark on a career in this field.
Corpore Vital
16:13 06 Feb 24
Professionalism and education at the highest level. The students are very attentive and involved in the way the information is conveyed and because there is a lot of practice, the course becomes even more exciting. Congratulations for the interactive way in which you transmit the information.
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World Championship Massage 2025

Next Championship June 27 – June 29 2025 in Copenhagen

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