Classical Massage could be the first type of massage that every massage enthusiast should learn at the beginning of their massage studies, as the Classical Massage course provides the ABC of massage. If the knowledge of classical massage is poorly acquired in the initial phase, this can lead to a situation where the information cannot be related to anything when learning the new types of massage. Due to that, the subsequent acquisition of a new type of massage is mechanical and not logical. Profound knowledge and mastery of classical massage will help in the future to understand all other types of massage more systematically.
1. Title of the Curriculum
Classical Massage (online course)
2. Curriculum Group
Therapy and rehabilitation
3. Learning Outcomes and Objective
Objective: To provide theoretical knowledge of classical massage and the techniques used.
Learning Outcomes:
Successful completion of the Classical Massage e-course:
- knows how the massage field works;
- understands the basic principles of the structure of the massage session;
- knows the effects of massage and the factors influencing them;
- has a basic knowledge of the skeletal muscles affected by Classical Massage;
- understands the massage techniques used in Classical Massage, know the correct terminology;
- understands at a basic level the nature of anamnesis, the main indications and contraindications for massage;
- knows the proper ergonomics of the masseur;
- understands the importance of postural assessment and testing when providing massage services;
- knows the basics of customer service, communication, and professional ethics.
Assessment of learning outcomes takes place at the end of each module. Written assignments receive written feedback within 1–3 business days; only after the independent work has been reviewed and feedback provided can you proceed to the next (sub)module.
4. Conditions for Starting Studies
Participation in the Classical Massage e-course is open to anyone interested in acquiring knowledge of Classical Massage. There are no prerequisites.
5. Total Volume and Structure of Study
The volume of the Classical Massage e-course is 30 academic hours, of which 30 academic hours are independent work (including e-learning). One academic hour is equal to 45 minutes.
The Classical Massage online course consists of six main modules.
Module I: Introduction
The first module gives an overview of the field of massage and the different types of massage. It also provides examples of how to delimit the types of massage and distinguish them from other services. The ability to delimit and differentiate is necessary for a more systematic understanding of the nature of (classical) massage and its effects on the different systems of the human body: skeletal, lymphatic, circulatory, endocrine, etc., and for a more systematic understanding of the various types of massage. In the first module, the effects of massage and the factors influencing them are also reviewed. In addition, the legal aspects will be discussed: the place of (classical) massage in the Estonian legal framework will be analyzed; the professional standard of the masseur will be explained in more detail in the sixth module.
In the first module, you will also acquire knowledge on how to structure a massage session at a basic level. It will also review issues related to the masseur's ergonomics. The module will end with the basic movements of the human body and the possibilities of testing and postural assessment when providing massage services. The aim is to demonstrate the strong relationship of other disciplines to the field of massage and the possibilities for a more versatile massage service.
Module II: back, neck, head and abdominal region
The second to sixth modules are practical modules. The second module reviews the massage techniques used in (classical) massage and analyses their application in practice. In addition, the major skeletal muscles of the back, neck, head, and abdominal region affected by the massage techniques are addressed. In addition, the location of the skeletal muscles in the human body that are affected by massage is reviewed based on images.
Module III: lower limb region: pelvic girdle, thigh, lower leg and foot muscles
The third module will review the massage techniques used in (Classical) massage; it will also analyze their application in practice. In addition, the major skeletal muscles of the pelvic girdle, thigh, lower leg, and foot, which are affected by massage techniques, are discussed. In addition, which are affected by massage techniques, are mainly discussed. Furthermore, the location of the skeletal muscles in the human body affected by massage will be reviewed based on images.
Module IV: upper extremities: shoulder girdle, upper arm, forearm and hand muscles
The fourth module reviews the massage techniques used in (classical) massage and analyses their application in practice. In addition, the major skeletal muscles of the shoulder girdle, upper arm, forearm, and hand, which are affected by massage techniques, are mainly discussed. Furthermore, the location of the skeletal muscles in the human body affected by massage will be reviewed based on images.
Module V: Professional ethics; customer service and communication.
Professional ethics, customer service, and communication are fields that should be recognized in the same way as massage types, techniques, and skeletal muscles: the more versatile and professional the service becomes, the better the Classical Massage massage service will be.
Module VI: the broader concept of the massage field
The sixth module is designed to help you better perceive and understand the workings of the massage field. You start to perceive and understand it only when you know how it works, its pros and cons, what needs to change, etc. This is why the Classical Massage online course has created a sixth module. Among other topics, the sixth module answers a widespread question in practice: whether you need a professional certificate to work as a masseur. In addition, the professional standard for masseurs, level 5, is analyzed to highlight clearly where classical massage is positioned in terms of professional standards.
6. Content of Study and Learning Methods
The Classical Massage online course addresses the following topics:
- overview of the field of massage;
- types of massage and their classification;
- classical massage;
- differentiation of massage services from other services;
- effects of massage;
- structure of a massage session;
- massage practitioner according to Estonian law;
- ergonomics of the massage practitioner;
- basic human body movements, testing, and posture assessment;
- massage techniques of classical massage;
- the major and most important skeletal muscles affected during a classical massage session;
- professional ethics, customer service, and communication;
- professional standard for massage practitioner (level 5) and professional certificate;
In the Classical Massage online course, the learning methods include video-based and visual instruction, problem-based learning, case-based learning, practical work and exercises, analysis, independent study, as well as written assignments and tests.
7. Description of the Learning Environment
The online course takes place in a web-based learning environment integrated into the website and is available to participants 24/7. The course is based on a video format, where the content is delivered mainly in audio form: the course instructor explains the topic with a slide presentation or videos in the background, and the instructor’s image is usually not displayed on the screen. To complete the online course, participants must create a user account on the website, have a fast internet connection, and use a device that allows watching video lectures, taking tests, and submitting assignments. A computer is recommended, but the course can also be completed on a smart device (e.g., a smartphone).
8. Conditions for Issuing Graduation Documents
The Classical Massage e-course assesses the accomplishment of learning outcomes. To achieve these, you will have to successfully complete independent assignments: multiple-choice tests, short-answer questions, a final test, and a written examination. A certificate will be issued if the learning outcomes are accomplished; a notice will be issued if not. The certificate will be issued on the basis of at least 70% completion of the e-course.
A certificate or notice is issued electronically. If you wish to receive a certificate or notice in printed form and sent by post, the fee for printing and delivery within Estonia is €15; delivery abroad is arranged by agreement. The fee for printing and sending a certificate or notice has been set for a simple reason: the cost of special paper, printing, envelope, postage, and the time required for the entire process. We want to keep our main focus on organizing courses rather than spending excessive time on formalities. Issuing a certificate or notice electronically takes about 10 minutes, but on paper it takes several times longer. At the same time, we understand that some learners prefer a certificate or notice in printed form, which is why we provide this option for a reasonable fee.
9. Description of the Course Instructor’s Qualification, Learning or Work Experience Required for Conducting the Course or Studies
The course instructor must have completed extensive studies in massage and successfully passed the professional massage practitioner qualification exam. In addition, the course instructor is required to have at least 5 years of experience in adult education and e-learning instruction.
10. Where Can You Register for the Classical Massage Online Course? How Long Is the Course Available?
You can register for the Classical Massage online course here.
The Classical Massage online course is available for one year after registration. You can complete it at your own time and pace, as it is based on pre-recorded video lectures.