You will be introduced to the principles of safe and respectful touch, including:

• Consent
• Communication
• Client comfort
• Appropriate pressure
• Professional boundaries
• Creating a safe treatment environment
• Awareness of individual client needs

You will learn introductory massage techniques, including:

You will learn how these techniques can be combined to create a simple and flowing relaxation massage.

• Effleurage
• Basic kneading techniques
• Gentle rhythmic movements
• Basic compression techniques
• Appropriate pressure
• Transitions between techniques

The practical training introduces the foundations of a simple full-body relaxation massage.

You will explore introductory techniques for areas including:

The focus is on developing foundational practical skills, confidence and understanding rather than providing the comprehensive training required for full practitioner-level massage practice.

• Back
• Shoulders
• Arms
• Hands
• Legs
• Feet

You will learn how to prepare appropriately for a massage, including:

• Preparing the treatment space
• Client positioning
• Therapist positioning
• Draping and client comfort
• Use of massage products
• Hygiene
• Basic professional standards
• Preparing yourself as the practitioner

The course introduces simple anatomy and body awareness relevant to the massage techniques taught.

You will explore:

This introductory anatomy content is not intended to replace the more comprehensive Anatomy & Physiology education included within practitioner-level diploma programmes.

• Basic body structures
• Major muscle groups
• Basic awareness of body movement
• Understanding where massage techniques are being applied
• Why anatomy knowledge is important when working with the body

You will be introduced to the relationship between massage, relaxation and the nervous system.

This includes:

• Creating a calming treatment environment
• Pace and rhythm
• Pressure and relaxation
• Awareness of the client's response to touch
• Communication and client comfort
• Practitioner presence
• Supporting a positive relaxation experience

Client safety is an important part of the course.

You will be introduced to:

• Basic contraindications to massage
• When massage may need to be adapted
• When massage should be avoided or postponed
• Basic safety considerations
• Recognising when further advice may be required
• Working within the limits of introductory training

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Explain the basic principles of body massage.
• Demonstrate an understanding of safe and respectful therapeutic touch.
• Identify basic body structures and major muscle groups relevant to the techniques taught.
• Demonstrate introductory massage techniques.
• Apply appropriate pressure and pace.
• Prepare a basic massage treatment space.
• Demonstrate appropriate client positioning and comfort measures.
• Perform the foundations of a simple full-body relaxation massage.
• Identify basic contraindications and safety considerations.
• Demonstrate appropriate communication and consent.
• Recognise the importance of professional boundaries.
• Demonstrate awareness of relaxation and nervous system responses.
• Apply a basic holistic and client-centred approach to massage.