American Massage Championships Rules

AMC Rules

Rules, categories, and the craft of competition

At the American Massage Championship, the focus is on examination, techniques, ergonomics, and overall performance in each category. Specialists and highly experienced judges in the specific category evaluate each participant.

Massage categories

Choose the category that fits your work

1. Classic European Swedish Massage. In this category there are no tools, stools, stretching, forearms, or kneeling. Techniques should be complete, clean, and flow seamlessly from one technique to another.
2. Thai/Nuad Thai massage. Thai massage, Shiatsu, Tui Na, Ayurveda, and related methods.
3. Wellness massage. Hot Stone, Aromatherapy, spa massage, lymph drainage, holistic massage, and related methods.
4. Western Free style massage. Combinations of western massage methods, self-treatment, mobilization, cupping, massage with tools, bodywork, and related methods.
5. Eastern Free style massage. Combinations of Asian massage methods, including Shiatsu, Acupressure, Thai massage, cupping, massage with tools, and related methods.
6. Sports massage. Deep-Tissue massage, MFR, MET, neuromuscular techniques, stretching, and related methods.
7. Chair massage. Both Western and Eastern inspired massage.
8. Facial massage. Japanese face lifting, Gua Sha, Classical facial spa treatment, and related methods.
9. Facial massage without chemical peels or extractions.
10. Clinical massage. 30 minutes plus interviews. You must show that you can assess and treat a problem area, demonstrate and explain why the treatment type was a good choice, and exhibit efficacy.
11. Barefoot massage. Western-style therapeutic bodywork performed primarily with the feet, using overhead parallel bars or Sarga Silks for support to showcase control, balance, and intentional pressure.
12. Body shaping/contouring massage. Toning techniques using specific tools, oils, and creams to improve skin appearance and muscle tone. Maximum 40% tool usage, with an emphasis on safety and hygiene.
13. Category 13. The source page displays a 13th numbered entry without a category name or description.

Participants are informed that judges are capable of evaluating the individual treatment. Please note that a treatment can be placed in several categories.

Participation

Competition requirements

1. Each Massage Therapist can participate in 1-3 categories.
2. Non-English-speaking participants can bring their own translator for briefing speeches and general communication.
3. Dress code: Participants may wear personal sponsorship clothing or another national suit that fits the category. Shoes are not recommended in Thai Yoga Massage.
4. All participants have to bring their own oil, sheets, and towels at the Championship. No exceptions.
5. Many brands deliver massage creams and oils. Participants are not obliged to use these products, but AMC highly recommends their use during the Championship.
6. The massage recipient must wear underwear at all times and have their chest covered if female. Any area not being worked on is recommended to be covered or draped.
7. No cameras are allowed during the rounds and the final. Unauthorized cameras and recordings can result in expulsion.
8. Insurance: Your own insurance covers both you and the participant you treat during the competition.
9. There is an absolute zero-tolerance policy concerning inappropriate behavior. Any massage of a sensual or sexual nature results in immediate disqualification and expulsion from the Championship.
10. All participants are required to receive massage as well as give massage. If necessary, the International Massage Association will arrange suitable candidates or massage recipients in particular cases.
11. No chiropractic or osteopathic manipulations are allowed during the competition.

The AMC will decide which music will be played during the American Massage Championships.

The judges

How performance is evaluated

Judges evaluate participants in the following areas with a point system.

Flow means continuous, non-stop movement and variation of techniques performed by the therapist. Ergonomics concerns how therapists use their own bodies, work environment, and remedies such as massage tables. Techniques are innovative and effective techniques for both therapist and client.

The final

Points, recipients, and the overall champion

The judges evaluate participants in their fields of expertise in close cooperation with other judges. Recipients in the final are also judges and award up to 6 points for the treatment as well.

Recording and photography notice: Lectures, preliminary rounds, the final, and prize giving are recorded on TV and used for future marketing on social media. This applies to pictures as well. By participating in the American Massage Championships, you allow AMC to do so.

Frequently asked questions

AMC quick answers