The Story Behind Sports Massage – Historical Facts

January 19, 2024 admin

Sports massage has roots in ancient times, with historical evidence suggesting its use in ancient Greece and Rome to help athletes prepare for competitions. However, the modern history of sports massage began to take shape in the 20th century.

In the mid-20th century, sports massage gained recognition for its role in enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. Pioneers like Jack Meagher and Therese Bertherat contributed to its development, emphasizing the application of massage techniques to address the specific needs of athletes.

As sports science advanced, sports massage became more integrated into training regimens and injury rehabilitation. Today, it plays a crucial role in the overall athletic care continuum, helping athletes recover, prevent injuries, and optimize their performance.

Sports Massage is very similar to the Swedish massage techniques. It involves long, gliding strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the muscles to promote relaxation and improve blood circulation, but also more stretching of tissue and joint mobilization. Furthermore Sports massage is often given more deep.

In 2021 Sports Massage was one of the new categories at the International Massage Associations (IMA’s) 4th World Championship in Massage.

It happened to be Georgios Geomelos from Greece (living in Las Vegas, USA) who won the the first Gold medal. It was during the Corona pandemic where the International Massage Association had to make the World Championship in Massage into a Hybrid Championship. Watch the interesting final here:

Text by Jeppe Tengbjerg

Did you like the article? Or did you like taking part of the World Championship in Massage or one of our classes, then please feel free to give us a nice review on Google.

Read more articles and watch amazing videos on the International Massage Associations WhatsApp and Telegram Channels.

IMA Academy host many courses, read more where or how to host an IMA Masterclass here.

Jessie Breard, from France won IMA’s Best Sports Massage Promotion award at the World Championship in Massage 2023.

Please follow the IMA Social Medias: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, TikTok, Telegram Channel, Whatsapp Channel, Threads, X, Linkedin

The International Massage Association also offer Masterclasses for Massage Therapists and Massage Teachers.

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.

Massage World Magazine International

18:39 24 May 24

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😇

Christina Blei-Amatdoelrasit

07:51 07 Feb 24

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.

World Championship Massage 2025

The Story Behind Sports Massage – Historical Facts

Have you seen what our particpants have to say?

World Championship Massage 2025

Shortcuts

Registration