Sports therapist : Training

New treatments, research and theories in this field are constantly being introduced. It is necessary for sports therapists to continually update and develop their skills and knowledge.

Therapists may also wish to specialise in particular aspects of injuries and techniques, such as spinal mobility. This can be achieved by attending courses and reading professional journals.

It is usual for professionals to maintain a general interest in various sports, since this can provide important new perspectives.

Continuing professional development (CPD) may also be a condition of a sports therapist's insurance or professional membership. For example, members of the Society of Sports Therapists (SST)  are required to undertake mandatory CPD training every year and also have a valid first aid certificate in order to meet the requirements for automatic professional indemnity.

Self-employed sports therapists have to meet their own training costs and attend training in their own time.

As sports therapy is a career that, at present, can be entered at different levels, there are always opportunities for therapists to take additional qualifications whilst working. For example, a graduate could take a part-time Masters degree. Improving and building on qualifications enables a sports therapist to offer a wider range of treatments and can lead to more employment options.