VCTC vs UWIC
I have been doing a VCTC Sports Massage Course since September. It seems seriously lacking in any depth and we have concentrated more on setting up a clinic than massage techniques.
Has anyone else found this to be the case? Does the course content vary based on where you happen to go to college?
I am considering doing another Sports Massage course in Cardiff at UWIC. It costs a lot more money but seems to have a lot more content. Anybody done this course or heard of somebody that has?
I don't want to waste more money and time so your opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
KW
Answers:
Hi,
My tutor on my current VTCT swedish massage course didnn't recommend the VTCT Sports massage course (& you'll find comments from Sportstherapy about VTCT & ITEC courses).
If the course you are talking about is the one that runs in about 6 Universities around the country, takes about 12 months and costs about £1500 - then I do know someone who has done it!! It did appear to be more Sports orientated and was definitely massage/sports focussed. The only thing that concerned me was the fact that this person "fabricated" some of her case studies - I know because I was a case study that never got a treatment! Mind you I suppose you could do that on any course and just hope that no-one checks up!
I've just applied to the Scottish Massage Schools for my Sports & Remedial course as that was the one recommended by my tutor.
Good Luck
FB
Answers:
Hi Kittenwarrior
I know exactly how you feel, I've been doing the ITEC Sports massage course since September and am so dissapointed. We've covered techniques and a bit of theory on sports injuries. We haven't done any of the training principles or sports theory.
I started the course to teach me advanced techniques, which it has, but I wouldn't want to treat a serious athlete!
My advice is to ask around in the area of sports that you would like to work in and ask what qualifications they would like you to have. I don't know about the UWIC course, maybe the university could put you in touch with past students.
Answers:
HI Kitten Warrior.
I have been looking at seveal courses from A,P &M through to SPorts Therapy. In all my research I think the two courses that have impressed me the most (on paper) are the LSSM and the SPS (the one at UWIC). I am hoping to join the UWIC one in September/October. It is run at several universities including SUnderland, Swansea, Cardiff) additionally the SPS course is approved by the Sports Massage Association. Also officially recognisd by the National Sports Medeicine Institute and more improtantly in Wales The course receives the support of the Sports Council for Wales. However I would check that this is the course you want. I have no backgorund in massage, and cannot find any other courses in SOuth Wales that serem to be as high a quality and have a lot of backing. UWIC is a well respected university when it comes to Sport.
Maybe see you on the course this year??
Stuart
Answers:
Hi Kitten,
Where was your VTCT Course? The Centre for excellence in Comp. Therapies - Hensol Park?
Stuart
Answers:
Hi Stuart,
I have been looking into it further and have come to the same decision as you about UWIC. Unfortunately I think I may have left it too late for this Sept because the course is full which is a real shame. It would be good if you could keep me updated though and let me know if anyone drops out so I can grab their place!
The VCTC course I am doing is at the City of Bristol College.
Thanks
Answers:
Having been a Sports Massage Therapy Lecturer (and Self employed sports massage therapist) for the last 8 years (several of which were for VTCT at an FE college ;)) I can honestly say I am not suprised by the comments about their 'courses'. I can still tell you (if you are interested) where you can get the ADVANCED certificate in Sports Massage in 2 Days ! (IIST, IHBC if you wish as well). NO prior knowledge is necessary. I'll let you work it out how good you think it may be (Body massage 'but rub a bit harder and make it hurt' is the norm :)
Seriously some VTCT courses are excellent but it's got more to do with the tutor (and how much extra info he/she gives) and little to do with the syllabus.
I won't say too much more 'cos it can get a bit political so all is IMHO
For anyone who wants to make a career in Sports Massage / Therapy I would strongly advise that they look at http://www.fihealth.org.uk/ and follow the links to Chosing a course a students guide (via the education and training link)
There are BIG changes on the way (licensing for one) so make sure you do a course which will have GOVERNMENT recognition.
Answers:
Thanks DFNU,
I hope the industry gets much more strict with regulation because surely along with wasting peoples money a misinformed massage therapist could do damage.
I am really surprised that I can now get insured to practice as a Sports Massage Therapist. I feel pretty competent because I've been practicing like mad and reading up on the subject but I know that some of the students have hardly attended but will pass because the college gets money for each one.
I'll have a look at the website you provided and make sure the next course is properly recognised.
Answers:
Only too pleased to help, and great to hear that someone is looking to increase their knowledge beyond what is delivered on the course.
As you quite rightly say FE funding (the subsidy that Colleges etc. receive) is dependant not student numbers but on student numbers who pass!! Therefore NO-ONE FAILS (not in my FE experience anyway)
The reason why I finally had enough of teaching in colleges was this very fact. Students learn to 'play the system'. They fancy another certificate (probably just to cover an empty space on the wall) they've done nails, make-up, flower arranging.....I know what....I'll do sports massage. It only costs about £150 (and they get most of that back if they are on benefit or in a 'deprived area'). Committment is none existent, not only that they waste a lot of the time that could be spent on 'serious' students.
Don't get me wrong.. I have taught some excellent students who were on benefit but normally 'commitment' was directly related to cost.
All the best with whatever you choose. I'm sure your attitude (in 'practising like mad) will serve you well.
Like Richard, I am only too keen to encourage and help those who are prepared to help themselves so please don't hesitate to ask any questions, not just related to courses but also if you have any 'treatment' queries
Please excuse me not using my name but 'politically' (esp re VTCT) I feel I can be of more assistance if I remain anonymous. For now anyway [&:]
Answers:
Hello DFNU.
I like what you just said and have made a note to definitely take you up on your offer and keep in touch.
I am just about to qualify as a Swedish massage therapist and will be starting my sports massage course in September. Both VTCT.
I am dedicated and hard-working. I was determined to put a lot into my course and feel I have got so much more out of because of it.
Live to Ride
Answers:
coolcyclist
All the best with your course and please don't think any less of VTCT because of my comments, many are excellent (I taught their courses for about 5 yrs and mine were alright :D
As you are probably aware 'sports massage' has it's roots firmly set in cycling, originating from soigneurs on the tours and eventing where maximum recovery in minimum time is essential.
If you have any 'contacts' in cycling use them (unfortunately in this country it's still about 'who' not 'what' you know. Though admittedly it is (finally) getting better)
BCF are constantly looking out for 'volunteers' to work on minor tours, and tracks (esp Herne Hill). Also there is quite a large demand in MTB and TT. (unfortunately as you are also probably aware cyclists as a breed are quite 'tight' great for experience, not so good at getting paid :eek:
(not dissing them I used to compete myself ;) so I know.
Now what you want are triathletes :D:D:D
Answers:
Hello again DNFU
Just checked before going home and glad to see your comment. I am a time triallist myself (mediocre to be sure) but know about the cycling origins.
Also heard now France is insisting all soignuers and masseurs be qualified.
So the interest is there to do some work in this field. For some of my events requirement for my course, I hope to work on a cycling training camp in Majorca for a week next year.
I supposed it is as a cyclist that some of my interest was triggered into this field.
Understand what you are saying about VTCT. It definitely depends on tutuors and whethere the individual student is willing to do more than just basic requirement. But then I guess it depends what they actually want to get out of it and for what purpose.
Live to Ride
Answers:
Hi,
I recently completed a VTCT Diploma in Health and Fitness Studies which lasted well over a year, although hard work we had a great time and had a fab teacher.
I have now been for 2 interviews to be told that VTCT is not a recognised body in the fitness industry and no-one will entertain me unless I have YMCA/ISRM qualifications.
Has anyone else had the same problems?
Answers:
Hmmm
V sorry to hear that all your hard work appears to be going unappreciated
Ufortunately though this is not uncommon. I would guess that although it took 'over a year' it was 3 - 4hrs 1 evening a week in a FE College.
This is not to meant to decry your achievements in any shape or form (who am I to judge) but, the on the whole, the fitness industry (unfortunately) think of VTCT qualifications (ie: IHBC, IIST , IIST etc,) as part time 'beauty therapy' qualifications.
Please don't shoot the messenger but it all goes back to when VTCT were known as VAI (and in all honesty at this time that's all the majority of their courses were, I know I had to try and teach them!)
They changed the name to try and shake off the image and although it worked for a while (to enable them to get FE funding from the government) from what I hear they are still 'on borrowed time'.
Though it does not help you now ANYONE LOOKING FOR COURSE IN FITNESS SHOULD ENSURE THAT IT IS RECOGNISED BY REPS
(Register of Exercise Professionals)
This is not 'me' talking but THE GOVERNMENT
check out out these 2 websites
http://www.reps-uk.org/welcome.asp
and
http://www.fihealth.org.uk/ follow the links through 'what we do' education and training and 'Choosing a course a students guide'.
It's a big document but it covers all CAM (complementary and Alternative Medicine which the Governments term for ANYONE who isn't a Doctor, Dentist or Physiotherapist who are the only official recognised medthod of treatment within the NHS. Yes I know I've missed out osteopaths and chiropractics, just read the document)
If a company you go to insists on YMCA/ISRM or whoever of course (sic) , at the moment, it's up to them but when (not if) licensing is implemented by the Government via NOS (again read the sites) then they will have no choice.
---------------HOWEVER----------
IMHO
why not get your own insurance and become a self-employed personal trainer. You don't have to work full time (evenings are one of the most popular times for PT so you can still continue work normally). You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain.
£30-£80 ph (PT) v £5-£7 ph (Fitness Instructor) to start with!! (you won't have to clean the toilets either!)
PS
YMCA / IRSM are not the only one's 'worth doing'. Premier courses (one other example) are recognised as being REP's level 3 (the highest currently available)
PPS
At least you have got a qualification, how many gyms can you name who have got unqualified staff or even F*C*S 'qualifactions' which they got in a weekend (which includes hal a day in promotion and business skills!!!)
Rant over .........GOOD LUCK in whatever you choose...
please email me if you think I can help you further (assuming I haven't just p**sed you off which was (sincerely) NOT my intention)
Answers:
hi everyone,
I have just registered to these pages today so i could reply to this-
i did a VTCT course in sport massage therapy at St Mary's college Twickenham last summer (2003) with John Gibbons.
I had the best time ever, I learned so much, and some, the teacher comes from an osteopathic background and we were taught so many techniques, massage, manipulations, active, passive stretching, you name it we learned it.
I strongly recommend this course, you can do it as a weekend course or a summer course.
I'm sorry it wasnt as enjoyable for the majority of you, where did you do it? who was your teacher?
Answers:
Just thought Id add my 2p
I too would recommend 'Gibbo' (That'll be a tenner please John :D
Seriously though, I have worked with John (at St Mary's) he is really good (nearly as good as me ;) !!!!!!!!!! (LMFAO)
If anyone's too far away, why not also check out Pulse Training Solutions (they are located with John at Iffley Road in Oxford (that'll be another tenner please Paul ;)
Has anyone else found this to be the case? Does the course content vary based on where you happen to go to college?
I am considering doing another Sports Massage course in Cardiff at UWIC. It costs a lot more money but seems to have a lot more content. Anybody done this course or heard of somebody that has?
I don't want to waste more money and time so your opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
KW
Answers:
Hi,
My tutor on my current VTCT swedish massage course didnn't recommend the VTCT Sports massage course (& you'll find comments from Sportstherapy about VTCT & ITEC courses).
If the course you are talking about is the one that runs in about 6 Universities around the country, takes about 12 months and costs about £1500 - then I do know someone who has done it!! It did appear to be more Sports orientated and was definitely massage/sports focussed. The only thing that concerned me was the fact that this person "fabricated" some of her case studies - I know because I was a case study that never got a treatment! Mind you I suppose you could do that on any course and just hope that no-one checks up!
I've just applied to the Scottish Massage Schools for my Sports & Remedial course as that was the one recommended by my tutor.
Good Luck
FB
Answers:
Hi Kittenwarrior
I know exactly how you feel, I've been doing the ITEC Sports massage course since September and am so dissapointed. We've covered techniques and a bit of theory on sports injuries. We haven't done any of the training principles or sports theory.
I started the course to teach me advanced techniques, which it has, but I wouldn't want to treat a serious athlete!
My advice is to ask around in the area of sports that you would like to work in and ask what qualifications they would like you to have. I don't know about the UWIC course, maybe the university could put you in touch with past students.
Answers:
HI Kitten Warrior.
I have been looking at seveal courses from A,P &M through to SPorts Therapy. In all my research I think the two courses that have impressed me the most (on paper) are the LSSM and the SPS (the one at UWIC). I am hoping to join the UWIC one in September/October. It is run at several universities including SUnderland, Swansea, Cardiff) additionally the SPS course is approved by the Sports Massage Association. Also officially recognisd by the National Sports Medeicine Institute and more improtantly in Wales The course receives the support of the Sports Council for Wales. However I would check that this is the course you want. I have no backgorund in massage, and cannot find any other courses in SOuth Wales that serem to be as high a quality and have a lot of backing. UWIC is a well respected university when it comes to Sport.
Maybe see you on the course this year??
Stuart
Answers:
Hi Kitten,
Where was your VTCT Course? The Centre for excellence in Comp. Therapies - Hensol Park?
Stuart
Answers:
Hi Stuart,
I have been looking into it further and have come to the same decision as you about UWIC. Unfortunately I think I may have left it too late for this Sept because the course is full which is a real shame. It would be good if you could keep me updated though and let me know if anyone drops out so I can grab their place!
The VCTC course I am doing is at the City of Bristol College.
Thanks
Answers:
Having been a Sports Massage Therapy Lecturer (and Self employed sports massage therapist) for the last 8 years (several of which were for VTCT at an FE college ;)) I can honestly say I am not suprised by the comments about their 'courses'. I can still tell you (if you are interested) where you can get the ADVANCED certificate in Sports Massage in 2 Days ! (IIST, IHBC if you wish as well). NO prior knowledge is necessary. I'll let you work it out how good you think it may be (Body massage 'but rub a bit harder and make it hurt' is the norm :)
Seriously some VTCT courses are excellent but it's got more to do with the tutor (and how much extra info he/she gives) and little to do with the syllabus.
I won't say too much more 'cos it can get a bit political so all is IMHO
For anyone who wants to make a career in Sports Massage / Therapy I would strongly advise that they look at http://www.fihealth.org.uk/ and follow the links to Chosing a course a students guide (via the education and training link)
There are BIG changes on the way (licensing for one) so make sure you do a course which will have GOVERNMENT recognition.
Answers:
Thanks DFNU,
I hope the industry gets much more strict with regulation because surely along with wasting peoples money a misinformed massage therapist could do damage.
I am really surprised that I can now get insured to practice as a Sports Massage Therapist. I feel pretty competent because I've been practicing like mad and reading up on the subject but I know that some of the students have hardly attended but will pass because the college gets money for each one.
I'll have a look at the website you provided and make sure the next course is properly recognised.
Answers:
Only too pleased to help, and great to hear that someone is looking to increase their knowledge beyond what is delivered on the course.
As you quite rightly say FE funding (the subsidy that Colleges etc. receive) is dependant not student numbers but on student numbers who pass!! Therefore NO-ONE FAILS (not in my FE experience anyway)
The reason why I finally had enough of teaching in colleges was this very fact. Students learn to 'play the system'. They fancy another certificate (probably just to cover an empty space on the wall) they've done nails, make-up, flower arranging.....I know what....I'll do sports massage. It only costs about £150 (and they get most of that back if they are on benefit or in a 'deprived area'). Committment is none existent, not only that they waste a lot of the time that could be spent on 'serious' students.
Don't get me wrong.. I have taught some excellent students who were on benefit but normally 'commitment' was directly related to cost.
All the best with whatever you choose. I'm sure your attitude (in 'practising like mad) will serve you well.
Like Richard, I am only too keen to encourage and help those who are prepared to help themselves so please don't hesitate to ask any questions, not just related to courses but also if you have any 'treatment' queries
Please excuse me not using my name but 'politically' (esp re VTCT) I feel I can be of more assistance if I remain anonymous. For now anyway [&:]
Answers:
Hello DFNU.
I like what you just said and have made a note to definitely take you up on your offer and keep in touch.
I am just about to qualify as a Swedish massage therapist and will be starting my sports massage course in September. Both VTCT.
I am dedicated and hard-working. I was determined to put a lot into my course and feel I have got so much more out of because of it.
Live to Ride
Answers:
coolcyclist
All the best with your course and please don't think any less of VTCT because of my comments, many are excellent (I taught their courses for about 5 yrs and mine were alright :D
As you are probably aware 'sports massage' has it's roots firmly set in cycling, originating from soigneurs on the tours and eventing where maximum recovery in minimum time is essential.
If you have any 'contacts' in cycling use them (unfortunately in this country it's still about 'who' not 'what' you know. Though admittedly it is (finally) getting better)
BCF are constantly looking out for 'volunteers' to work on minor tours, and tracks (esp Herne Hill). Also there is quite a large demand in MTB and TT. (unfortunately as you are also probably aware cyclists as a breed are quite 'tight' great for experience, not so good at getting paid :eek:
(not dissing them I used to compete myself ;) so I know.
Now what you want are triathletes :D:D:D
Answers:
Hello again DNFU
Just checked before going home and glad to see your comment. I am a time triallist myself (mediocre to be sure) but know about the cycling origins.
Also heard now France is insisting all soignuers and masseurs be qualified.
So the interest is there to do some work in this field. For some of my events requirement for my course, I hope to work on a cycling training camp in Majorca for a week next year.
I supposed it is as a cyclist that some of my interest was triggered into this field.
Understand what you are saying about VTCT. It definitely depends on tutuors and whethere the individual student is willing to do more than just basic requirement. But then I guess it depends what they actually want to get out of it and for what purpose.
Live to Ride
Answers:
Hi,
I recently completed a VTCT Diploma in Health and Fitness Studies which lasted well over a year, although hard work we had a great time and had a fab teacher.
I have now been for 2 interviews to be told that VTCT is not a recognised body in the fitness industry and no-one will entertain me unless I have YMCA/ISRM qualifications.
Has anyone else had the same problems?
Answers:
Hmmm
V sorry to hear that all your hard work appears to be going unappreciated
Ufortunately though this is not uncommon. I would guess that although it took 'over a year' it was 3 - 4hrs 1 evening a week in a FE College.
This is not to meant to decry your achievements in any shape or form (who am I to judge) but, the on the whole, the fitness industry (unfortunately) think of VTCT qualifications (ie: IHBC, IIST , IIST etc,) as part time 'beauty therapy' qualifications.
Please don't shoot the messenger but it all goes back to when VTCT were known as VAI (and in all honesty at this time that's all the majority of their courses were, I know I had to try and teach them!)
They changed the name to try and shake off the image and although it worked for a while (to enable them to get FE funding from the government) from what I hear they are still 'on borrowed time'.
Though it does not help you now ANYONE LOOKING FOR COURSE IN FITNESS SHOULD ENSURE THAT IT IS RECOGNISED BY REPS
(Register of Exercise Professionals)
This is not 'me' talking but THE GOVERNMENT
check out out these 2 websites
http://www.reps-uk.org/welcome.asp
and
http://www.fihealth.org.uk/ follow the links through 'what we do' education and training and 'Choosing a course a students guide'.
It's a big document but it covers all CAM (complementary and Alternative Medicine which the Governments term for ANYONE who isn't a Doctor, Dentist or Physiotherapist who are the only official recognised medthod of treatment within the NHS. Yes I know I've missed out osteopaths and chiropractics, just read the document)
If a company you go to insists on YMCA/ISRM or whoever of course (sic) , at the moment, it's up to them but when (not if) licensing is implemented by the Government via NOS (again read the sites) then they will have no choice.
---------------HOWEVER----------
IMHO
why not get your own insurance and become a self-employed personal trainer. You don't have to work full time (evenings are one of the most popular times for PT so you can still continue work normally). You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain.
£30-£80 ph (PT) v £5-£7 ph (Fitness Instructor) to start with!! (you won't have to clean the toilets either!)
PS
YMCA / IRSM are not the only one's 'worth doing'. Premier courses (one other example) are recognised as being REP's level 3 (the highest currently available)
PPS
At least you have got a qualification, how many gyms can you name who have got unqualified staff or even F*C*S 'qualifactions' which they got in a weekend (which includes hal a day in promotion and business skills!!!)
Rant over .........GOOD LUCK in whatever you choose...
please email me if you think I can help you further (assuming I haven't just p**sed you off which was (sincerely) NOT my intention)
Answers:
hi everyone,
I have just registered to these pages today so i could reply to this-
i did a VTCT course in sport massage therapy at St Mary's college Twickenham last summer (2003) with John Gibbons.
I had the best time ever, I learned so much, and some, the teacher comes from an osteopathic background and we were taught so many techniques, massage, manipulations, active, passive stretching, you name it we learned it.
I strongly recommend this course, you can do it as a weekend course or a summer course.
I'm sorry it wasnt as enjoyable for the majority of you, where did you do it? who was your teacher?
Answers:
Just thought Id add my 2p
I too would recommend 'Gibbo' (That'll be a tenner please John :D
Seriously though, I have worked with John (at St Mary's) he is really good (nearly as good as me ;) !!!!!!!!!! (LMFAO)
If anyone's too far away, why not also check out Pulse Training Solutions (they are located with John at Iffley Road in Oxford (that'll be another tenner please Paul ;)