Is there a differnece between an equine masseuse and an equine SPORTS masseuse?

[Holly B]

Just wondering, are they qualified the same, and do they do the same thing, just two different names? Or two entirely different types of therapist? :)

[Ginger Thing]

I would have thought it was the same - I am an equine (and human!) sports massage therapist, but could also call it remedial or therapeutic massage. The massage I practice on people can be 'normal' or Swedish massage, which is relaxing and therapeutic but does not really work deeply on problem areas (aromatherapy massage is also 'gentle'), whereas 'sports', or 'remedial' massage is deeper and works on specific problems, addressing areas where there are spasms and 'knots', and involves some quite painful work (large rugby players are often reduced to tears by massage on their tight calf muscles, but feel better for it later!). It also involves stretching exercises, and these are also carried out on equine clients.

Most horses don't need a 'beauty therapy relaxing massage' but as athletes they require their muscles to be in optimum condition to perform, whether they're just 'happy hackers' or competition horses, so they get 'sports' rather than a soothing 'spa experience'!