Rules

Massage categories:

1. Classic European Swedish Massage (In this category there are no tools, no stools, no stretching, no forearms, no 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 etc.)
3. Wellness massage (Hot Stone, Aromatherapy, spa massage, lymph drainage, holistic massage etc)
4. Western Free style massage (Combination of different types of western massage methods, self-treatment, mobilization, cupping, massage with tools, bodywork etc.)
5. Eastern Free style massage ( Combination of different types of Asian massage methods (Shiatsu, Acupressure, Thai massage, cupping, massage with tools, etc.)ro
6. Sports massage (Deep-Tissue massage, MFR, MET, neuromuscular techniques, stretching etc.)
7. Chair massage (both Western and Eastern inspired massage)
8. Facial massage (Japanese face lifting, Gua Sha, Classical facial spa treatment etc.)
9. Facial massage without chemical peels, extractions, etc.
10. Clinical massage (30 minutes + interviews. You must show that you can assess and treat a problem area, demonstrate/explain how and why the treatment type was a good choice, exhibit efficacy)
11. Barefoot massage (Western-style therapeutic bodywork performed primarily with the feet, utilizing 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; max 40% tool usage with an emphasis on safety and hygiene.)
13.  

Participants are informed, that the judges at the competition are capable of evaluating the individual treatment and please note, that a treatment can be placed in several categories. 

Participation:

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 are allowed to wear personal sponsorship clothing or any other 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 are delivering massage creams and oils. The participants are not obliged to use these products, but AMC can highly recommend the use of these during the Championship
6. The recipient of the massage must wear underwear at all times and have covered their chest (if she is a woman). Any area which is not being worked on is recommended to be covered/draped.
7. No cameras are allowed during the rounds and the final. Unauthorized use of cameras and recordings can result in expulsion.
8. Insurance – It is your own insurance that 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 sensual/sexual nature would result in immediate disqualification and expulsion from the Championship.
10. All participants are required to receive massage, as well as giving massages. If necessary the International Massage Association will arrange for suitable candidates/massage recipients in particular cases.
11. No chiropractic and osteopathic manipulations are allowed during the competition.

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

The Judges:

Judges will evaluate the participants in the following areas with a point system: (Example)

• Techniques
• Ergonomics
• Flow 
• Innovation and Development of new methods
• Client contact

The Final:

The Duration of the Final is 65 minutes.

Massage recipients (Professional and highly educated Massage Therapists) hand up to 6 points depending on their experience of the massage they receive.

The head judges are able to hand out 3 points each to only one finalist.

The Winner will be the Massage Therapist who gets the most points, and he/she is appointed as Overall American Massage Champion.

How can one compete in massage?

At the American Massage Championship, focus is on examination, techniques, ergonomics and overall performance in each category – judged by specialists and highly experienced judges in the specific category.

By “The flow of the massage” means a continuous non-stop movement and variation of techniques performed by the therapist.

Ergonomics: How does the therapists use their own bodies (work environment) and their remedies (Massage tables etc)

Techniques: Different techniques used in each category. Innovative and effective techniques for both therapist and client.

The judges will each evaluate the participants in their field of expertise in close cooperation with other judges. The recipients in the final are also judges, and will give up to 6 points for the treatment as well.

NOTE! Lectures, the preliminary rounds and the final, as well as prize giving will be recorded on TV and used for future marketing on social medias. This goes for pictures as well. By participating in the American Massage Championships, you are allowing the AMC to do so.