Elective Course

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage teaches slow, focused techniques and efficient body mechanics to address chronic tension, improve circulation, and support recovery while maintaining safe pressure choices and clear client communication.

35 Total Hours 5 lecture hours and 30 lab hours
Prerequisite Level I Foundational Courses plus a high school diploma or GED
Textbook No textbook required

What Students Build

Technique Development
Client Safety
Applied Learning
Professional Readiness

Overview

Course Description

A bodywork and techniques elective designed to support safe, informed, client-centered practice.

What You Learn

Course Overview

Students learn to apply deeper-pressure massage techniques with efficient body mechanics, thoughtful pacing, and client-centered communication. Emphasis is placed on safe pressure choices, region-specific technique, and adapting sessions for comfort and therapeutic goals.

  • Outcome 1 Explain indications, contraindications, and client communication strategies for deeper work.
  • Outcome 2 Demonstrate safe leverage, pressure control, and pacing across multiple body regions.
  • Outcome 3 Adapt pressure, positioning, and session flow for client comfort and safety.
This elective supports safe practice, applied learning, and professional communication within massage therapy scope.

Learning Outcomes

Course Outcomes

Students strengthen practical skills and professional decision-making through guided theory and hands-on learning.

By the End of This Course

  • Explain indications, contraindications, and client communication strategies for deeper work.
  • Demonstrate safe leverage, pacing, and pressure control for multiple body regions.
  • Adapt pressure and positioning for client comfort, safety, and session goals.

Hours Overview

Lab training makes up most of the course, with lecture supporting safety, communication, and treatment planning.

Schedule

Course Structure and Resources

Course pacing blends lecture and lab practice to support both theory and applied skill development.

Instructional Time

Total instructional time is 35 hours, including 5 lecture hours and 30 lab hours. This structure supports theory, supervised practice, and skill integration.

A detailed schedule with dates, activities, policies, and assignment expectations is typically issued to enrolled students.

Evaluation

Grading Summary

Student progress is measured through coursework, labs, and final assessment activities.

Graded Items
Value
Quizzes
30%
Labs
50%
Projects
20%
Total
100%

Course Planning Note

Deep Tissue Massage supports focused treatment planning, safe pressure application, and advanced bodywork skills within the AFSM elective curriculum.

Note: Prerequisites include Level I Foundational Courses and a high school diploma or GED.