Incl. Swedish, Holistic or Classical Western Style Relaxing Massage.
Use Classical massage strokes such as effleurage, petrissage (wringing, kneading, thumb petrissage, etc.), tapotement strokes (hacking, cupping, beating, pounding, etc.)
No Deep Tissue techniques or strong articulations allowed.
Not allowed.
Light to medium-deep.
Incl. Spa Style Massage, Lomi Lomi Massage, Aromatherapy, MLD, Body Sculpting, Hot Stone, Cupping, Poultice, Bamboo, Facial Massage, etc.
Use of spa style massage routines and strokes which are flowing and rhythmical. Classical massage strokes combined with the use of forearms as well as massage tools.
Allowed.
Light to medium-deep.
Incl. Deep Tissue Massage, Sports Massage, Therapeutic, Stretching, Neuromuscular Technique, Myofascial Release, PNF/MET, joint articulation/mobilisation, etc.).
No Osteopathic/Chiropractic type manipulations allowed. Use a variety of soft tissue techniques using palms, fists, forearms, elbows as well as stretching techniques and joint articulations to provide a treatment.
Not allowed
Light to deep
Incl. Western & Eastern inspired massage with a mixture and variation of styles which are unique to you.
All modes and styles of soft tissue massage therapy can be included as well as stretching and joint articulation. Use of massage tools is allowed, including small “singing bowls”. Both legs can be off the floor, i.e. you can climb onto the couch. NO FIRE OR LARGE GONG/SOUND BATH THERAPY TYPE TREATMENTS ARE ALLOWED IN THE COMPETITION.
Allowed.
Light to deep.
Perform massage in a seated position using an On-site Massage Chair, Massage Stool, on floor, etc. with the client remaining fully clothed. Category can include massage and deep tissue massage techniques, acupressure/shiatsu techniques as well as stretching and joint articulation.
Category can include massage and deep tissue massage techniques, acupressure/shiatsu techniques as well as stretching and joint articulation.
Allowed
Ligth to deep.
Competitors can enter up to 4 categories from any of the above selection.
Discounts are available as indicated below for multiple category entries.
Before entering the competition, please ensure you have read and understood the entry criteria for each massage category.
1. The competition is open to both national and international participants.
2. All participants must bring their own model.
3. Models must be 16 years or older and provide prior consent. We recommend using a different model for each category.
4. Participants are responsible for entering the correct competition category.
5. Once registered, category changes are not permitted.
6. Only qualified and professional therapists may enter.
7. The event organizers reserve the right to refuse entry.
8. Participants and models may be photographed or filmed for marketing and social media during and after the competition.
9. For any queries or concerns, please contact us at info@ukmassagechampionship.co.uk before the competition.
10. Each category will have a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winner. The overall winner will be the participant with the highest total score.
11. Translators are permitted for non-English speakers, but they cannot be present on the competition floor during judging.
Judging Criteria for the Competition
Please note that not all criteria apply to every category and modality of massage therapy. The following guidelines serve as a model for judges to make a fair and reasonable assessment of each participant’s skills within their chosen category.
Each participant will begin with 100 points, with deductions made accordingly based on the criteria below:
1. Preparation of the Treatment Area (5 points)
Proper setup of equipment, massage mediums, tools, storage of clothing, and ensuring a safe working environment.
2. Personal Preparation & Hygiene (5 points)
Professional appearance, grooming, appropriate uniform, minimal jewellery, and overall hygiene.
3. Client Care (10 points)
Proper use of drapes, towels, cushions, bolsters, client modesty, and correct positioning.
4. Communication (10 points)
Verbal and non-verbal communication, including body language and professional interaction.
5. Massage Routine (40 points)
– Effectiveness (20 points) – Depth, pressure, tissue change.
– Flow (10 points) – Rhythm, fluidity, continuity.
– Innovation (10 points) – Creativity, unique style, integration of techniques.
6. Body Mechanics (30 points)
Proper posture, relaxed movement, efficiency, and injury prevention for the practitioner.