You are here: Home: Careers advice: A-Z of careers: Sports therapist

Sports therapist

Sports therapists use a variety of physical techniques and therapies in the rehabilitation and treatment of athletes who are suffering from injuries or illnesses.

Many therapists have to supplement their income with other part-time jobs before they become established.

Sports therapist job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Typical responsibilities of sports therapists include:

helping to prepare athletes both mentally and physically
advising about stretching and warming up exercises
giving massages and administering strappings
giving first aid if required
checking injuries and strappings
making decisions about whether athletes and players can continue
examining and assessing injuries
administering treatment for minor injuries such as bruises, strains and blisters
referring individuals to appropriate sports and medical practitioners for further treatment
accompanying injured athletes and players to appointments
examining and assessing injuries
providing appropriate treatment
designing and implement rehabilitation and de-tox programmes
advising about nutrition, diet and lifestyle issues
collaborating with trainers and coaches on injury prevention programmes.

Typical employers of sports therapists

Most sports therapists are self-employed. Salaried opportunities arise in sports injury clinics, with professional and amateur sports teams or clubs, health and fitness clubs and sports and leisure centres.

Networking and speculative applications are advisable. Participation in sport and sports therapy is essential as a useful way of meeting people already working in the area. Advertised vacancies appear in newspapers, local authority vacancy lists, professional/trade publications or online.

Qualifications and training required

Anyone with some form of sports therapy training can practice therapy. Qualifications are available at a range of levels (full or part time), including HND or degree courses, diplomas and advanced diplomas. Qualifications accredited by a recognised professional body such as The Society of Sports Therapists is preferable. Relevant work experience can be helpful.