MEET ANDY

What qualifications do you have?

I trained at the highly-respected London School of Sports Massage (LSSM). This involved a year of intensive study of anatomy and physiology as well as massage and advanced soft tissue techniques, culminating in a Level 5 BTEC Professional Diploma in Soft Tissue Therapy – one of the highest levels of clinical massage therapy available in the UK. I also have a BSc Honours degree in Sports Science and Leisure Management from Brunel University.

I have over 20 years’ teaching experience and have been recognised as ‘outstanding’ and ‘the driving force behind high-quality PE teaching’. I have also founded and still run a very successful swim school in Surrey and Hampshire.

Why are you so passionate about massage therapy?

I am a long-term sports fanatic and still regularly play hockey for Alton Hockey club, as well as, open water swimming, running and mountain biking. I believe that sport and being physically active (no matter what shape or form that takes) is really important for our mental and physical well-being. I have seen from personal experience, and from friends and family, the huge impact massage therapy can have. Sports massage allows individuals to keep their body functioning at its optimal level, whether they are 25 or 85!

For years I experienced severe pain in my groin and back. Pain which was sometimes so severe that it stopped me from doing the activities I love – which can be soul destroying. I have also seen the same with friends and family who have become depressed post-operatively due to the loss of mobility. So I completely understand what clients are feeling when they come to me seeking massage therapy treatment.

Having visited several osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists in an attempt to alleviate my pain, I then became frustrated as I experienced only temporary relief. But this all changed when I met a talented and inspirational massage therapist who not only helped me with my pain in the long term, but also inspired me to make this my career.

I love seeing the positive changes that I can make to peoples lives by reducing their unnecessary pain and debilitation and take pride in helping people reach their full physical potential.