Sports massage FAQs

Got a few questions? Check out my FAQs below and feel free to contact me if you need any further help.

How do I book an appointment?

Appointments can be booked online here. If you can’t find an appointment time that works for you, or if you need a little help deciding which appointment type/duration to book feel free to email me at jennifersophiesportsmassage@gmail.com

What type of appointment should I book?

If it’s your first time visiting for a sports massage, please select a ‘new client’ appointment. This is a slightly longer appointment so I can get to know more about you and tailor your treatments accordingly.

After your first appointment, it’s up to you! A 3O minute express treatment is ideal if you want to focus on one specific area, or you’re tight on time and just want a quick tune up. A 60 minute treatment gives us time to work more in-depth and on multiple areas, and a 90 minute treatment is the ultimate way to improve your recovery, loosen off all those aches and pains and treat yourself to some well-deserved R&R.

Get in touch if you need some guidance on the best appointment for your needs.

How do I pay for my appointment?

You can pay online via my online booking system. If you require an alternative payment method (cash of BACS) this can be arranged, please get in touch via email to get booked in. Payment in full is required either before, or at your appointment.

Can I change or cancel my appointment?

Absolutely, but please give me at least 1 days’ notice wherever possible.
If you reschedule instead of cancelling, NO fee will be charged – see you soon! If you cancel (without rescheduling) with less than 24 hours’ notice a 50% fee will apply. Please note that no-shows may be charged the full appointment fee.

Thanks for your understanding!

I’ve got a cold/I’m not feeling well, can I still attend?

Please reschedule your appointment if you are feeling unwell. I know a lovely massage when you’ve got a cold might sound dreamy, but because massage increases blood flow, if you have any sort of active infection it can exacerbate your symptoms. Plus, as a self-employed therapist and a triathlete who’s always training for her next big race, catching bugs can be a bit of a disaster. Rest assured, if you need to cancel because of illness, you won’t be charged. See you when you’re feeling better!

Where is Jennifer Sophie Sports Massage based?

Appointments take place in my home treatment room based in Beccles, Suffolk. Once you’ve booked your appointment, you’ll receive full directions on how to get here!

What time should I arrive for my appointment?

Please arrive at your designated appointment time. There is no waiting area, so if you’re early you may have to wait outside until your appointment time. Rest assured, time for meet and greet, postural analysis/movement screen and getting comfy are all factored in, so you’ll receive the full treatment time booked.

I know life (and traffic!) happens, but if you’re running a few minutes late, please try to let me know (contact details will be provided after booking). If you arrive late, your session may need to be shortened to finish at the original scheduled time, and you will be charged the full session fee. If you are more than 20 minutes late, this will be classified as a no-show and fees will apply.

Is there parking available?

Yes, free parking is available on site. You will receive details on where to park with your booking confirmation.

What should I wear to my appointment?

I’d recommend wearing comfortable clothing that’s easy to move/remove as appropriate. This will make it easier for me to conduct a postural analysis and movement screen, and to access the muscles that require treatment. In general, shorts/boxer shorts are recommended. Towels and/or blankets will be provided to keep you comfortable throughout your treatment. Get in touch if you have any specific questions or concerns about what to wear to your appointment.

What NOT to do before a sports massage treatment

Please avoid eating a heavy meal right before your treatment, and do not drink alcohol prior to attending. It’s also recommended to avoid intensive training right before or after your treatment. If you’ve exercised lightly prior to treatment, please shower before arrival for hygiene reasons.

Does sports massage hurt?

It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous prior to your first treatment – we’ve all heard the horror stories of people coming out of sports massage treatments feeling battered and bruised! Rest assured, treatment will always be conducted within your comfort levels, and won’t be painful. Contrary to some beliefs, sports massage doesn’t need to be painful to be effective – in fact, going too hard can actually have quite the opposite effect. Deep tissue massage can sometimes feel a little bit uncomfortable, particularly where tight muscles are concerned. But I’ll communicate with you throughout your treatment and you’ll always have full control over the depth of pressure.

Can you diagnose my injury?

Sports massage therapists are qualified to provide treatment to relieve discomfort, improve mobility and aid recovery post-injury. We can conduct testing and analysis to build up a better picture of what might be causing your discomfort to plan your treatment accordingly. However, sports massage therapists are not qualified to provide a diagnosis – this is the remit of doctors, physiotherapists etc. If I feel it is appropriate, I may suggest you visit another professional and I will be happy to provide referral notes if required. If you have already seen another professional, I am happy to communicate with them prior to and during your course of treatments to offer the best possible care.

As a qualified personal trainer and Pilates instructor, with experience working with a wide range of clients, I can also advice on aftercare and strengthening/mobility exercises to help you not only recover faster – but recover stronger.

What are your qualifications?

  • VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy
  • VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy
  • Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training
  • Level 3 Certificate in Mat Pilates Instruction
  • Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing

I am fully insured, and a Professional Member of the Complementary Therapists Association (CThA).