The National Massage Championship 2025 – Judging Criteria

Our updated 2025 scoring system. Each participant will be evaluated across 8 core criteria, totalling 100 points.

Assessment & Communication (max 10 points)

Judges will assess how well the therapist identifies and responds to client needs through professional communication and assessment skills.

Considerations:

• Conducts a brief consultation or palpation check before beginning.

• Demonstrates awareness of contraindications and areas of concern.

• Uses effective dialogue to confirm comfort and expectations.

• Maintains appropriate communication throughout, checking client comfort and reactions.

• Demonstrates professional, calm, and empathetic interaction.

Depth Control & Pressure Adaptation (max 10 points)

The ability to apply the appropriate depth and pressure for each technique is key to both effectiveness and client safety.

Considerations:

• Adjusts pressure intuitively in response to tissue feedback and client reactions.

• Maintains smooth flow and control during deep or light work.

• Shows confidence in applying progressive depth without forcing pressure.

• Demonstrates consistent rhythm and connection throughout.

Anatomical Accuracy (max 10 points)

Therapists must demonstrate clear understanding of human anatomy, applying each stroke or technique with purpose and precision.

Considerations:

• Targets correct muscle groups, fascia lines, or acupressure points.

• Displays understanding of muscle origin, insertion, and function.

• Applies techniques aligned with natural movement and structure.

• Avoids superficial or misplaced work; demonstrates anatomical intent.

Technique Proficiency (max 10 points)

Judges assess the therapist’s mastery, precision, and fluency of chosen techniques.

Considerations:

• Demonstrates confident, skilled execution of techniques relevant to the chosen

• Transitions are smooth and logical.

• Techniques are appropriate for the client’s presentation and flow well together.

• Maintains balance between rhythm, pace, and control.

Body Mechanics (max 10 points)Ergonomic movement and safe body mechanics ensure both therapist longevity and effective treatment delivery.

Considerations:

• Therapist uses body weight, stance, and leverage effectively.

• Demonstrates safe posture and grounded movement (bending knees, neutral spine).

• Avoids overuse of fingers, thumbs, or wrists.

• For categories with tools: demonstrates correct, confident handling and effective use integrated into treatment.

Treatment Strategy (max 40 points)

This is the core element of judging — assessing how effectively the therapist designs and delivers a cohesive, purposeful, and client-centred treatment.

Considerations:

• Session has clear intent (e.g., relaxation, recovery, therapeutic focus).

• Flow and transitions are seamless, logical, and clinically reasoned.

• Combines assessment, manual skills, and client feedback into one coherent approach.

• Displays creativity or innovation while maintaining professionalism.

• Manages time effectively across areas of the body.

Client Response & Safety (max 5 points)

Ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of the client throughout the session is essential.

Considerations:

• Observes and responds to non-verbal cues (breathing, tension, relaxation).

• Provides adjustments as needed for warmth, positioning, or comfort.

• Adheres to safety and hygiene standards at all times.

• Delivers a treatment that feels nurturing, safe, and well-managed.

Professional Conduct (max 5 points)

Overall presentation, professionalism, and session management.

Considerations:

• Clean, professional appearance; appropriate uniform or attire.

• Confident and calm demeanour throughout.

• Maintains a hygienic and organised workspace.

• Draping is respectful, secure, and maintains client dignity.

• Demonstrates professionalism in all interactions with judges, models, and team.