How can CPD be beneficial for Sports Therapists?

Sports Therapists must keep pace with the fast-evolving nature of sports science, rehabilitation techniques, and client expectations. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) has become increasingly essential across the healthcare industry and the field of sports therapy. CPD is a valuable means for sports therapists to enhance their skills, knowledge, and expertise throughout their careers.

Participation in CPD is a professional commitment that enables therapists to deliver effective, evidence-based treatment while ensuring their methods remain safe, ethical, and current. The following article will explain the importance of CPD to Sports Therapists. It also highlights the benefits and requirements of CPD and outlines how to set better goals.

What is a Sports Therapist?

Sports therapists are health professionals who specialise in supporting the health of athletes and individuals who participate in sport. The role of a sports therapist will include dealing with physical injuries, supporting mental health, and providing guidance and planning on diet and fitness regimes. Sports therapists may choose to specialise in specific areas of their field such as massage and physiotherapy.

Why is CPD important in Sports Therapy?

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities throughout their career. At its core, CPD is about the individual and their commitment to lifelong learning.

In the field of sports therapy, it is important for professionals to ensure their skills and knowledge are relevant. CPD participation can be a critical means for therapists to stay updated on the latest techniques, research findings, regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Through CPD, sports therapists can enhance their expertise - enabling them to manage a broader range of injuries and adapt their approach based on the latest scientific insights. Improved knowledge directly impacts client satisfaction, as therapists equipped with up-to-date skills are better able to meet client expectations, shorten recovery times, and improve outcomes. Additionally, CPD participation ensures adherence to standards and can increase professional standing, both with clients and within the broader healthcare community.

What are the CPD requirements for Sports Therapists?

The Society of Sports Therapists (1) was established in 1990 and is a recognised organisation for Sports Therapists in the UK. The society sought to create a membership organisation that would standardise and monitor the provision and availability of support services for sports therapists.

The Society of Sports Therapists actively promotes CPD and requires all members to undertake an annual programme of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in order to fulfil the criteria for membership. Although it does not specify a particular number of CPD hours per year, it expects members to keep a record of CPD participation. The Society CPD guidance states:

 “CPD enables professional organisations to ensure that practitioners are engaged in activities that maintain and improve professional standards and patient care. Engagement in CPD enables members to demonstrate their commitment to keeping up to date with new knowledge and developments whilst ensuring safe and effective practice. It offers members accountability for their own professional development and will demonstrate a commitment to best practice which is an essential concept with regard to the protection of the public.”

Benefits of CPD in Sports Therapy

1. Practical Skills Development

Practical skills are the foundation of sports therapy, and CPD enables therapists to continuously refine and expand their hands-on abilities. Workshops and training in advanced techniques like dry needling, kinesiology taping, or joint mobilisation can often enhance treatment effectiveness and client outcomes.

As new therapeutic technologies emerge—such as cryotherapy devices, electrotherapy units, and specialised rehabilitation equipment—CPD provides a pathway for therapists to learn and incorporate these tools into their practice. Skill development in practical techniques allows sports therapists to offer a wider range of treatment options, making them better equipped to handle various injuries and client needs.

2. Knowledge Updates

Understanding the latest in sports science, anatomy, and physiology is critical for effective sports therapy. CPD activities that focus on knowledge updates allow sports therapists to deepen their understanding of the body’s response to injury, recovery mechanisms, and rehabilitation protocols.

By staying informed on recent research and studies, therapists can ensure that their practice reflects the most current evidence-based methods. For instance, new research on muscle recovery or the biomechanics of movement, leading to more effective assessment and treatment plans for clients. This updated knowledge positions sports therapists to make well-informed decisions and offer interventions that have proven benefits in the field.

3. Soft Skills and Communication

While technical skills are paramount, the ability to communicate effectively with clients is also important. CPD in soft skills development focuses on communication, client rapport, and motivational techniques, which are essential for encouraging clients through often challenging recovery processes.

Training in motivational interviewing, active listening, and empathy help therapists to better understand client perspectives, align on goals, and build trust. This skill set is particularly useful when managing expectations or delivering complex information about injury prognosis and recovery timelines. Effective communication not only fosters positive therapist-client relationships but also contributes to greater client satisfaction and adherence to rehabilitation plans.

4. Business and Practice Management

For sports therapists managing their own practice or aspiring to do so, CPD in business and practice management can be invaluable. From learning client retention strategies to understanding digital marketing basics, CPD equips therapists with tools to effectively run and grow their practice. Knowledge of administrative aspects like record-keeping, privacy laws, and health and safety protocols can help ensure compliance with regulatory standards and build client trust. Business acumen is increasingly essential in a competitive market, where therapists need to be both excellent practitioners and savvy managers to maintain a successful practice.

What are the different CPD Methods for Sports Therapists?

Training Courses

Training courses are the most well-known method of CPD learning and can vary in length from one day up to several days or over several weeks. They can also sometimes encompass others forms of learning such as lectures, seminars and workshops. Training courses can be delivered either in-person such as classroom style, or online, or even possibly a hybrid of both. CPD Training courses could focus on specific areas of sports therapy but also offer learning across a range of beneficial areas such as business management and the development of key transferable skills.

Conferences, Workshops & Events

Workshops and conferences offer opportunities for learning, skill development, and networking. Conferences often bring together top professionals, researchers, and thought leaders in the field, offering therapists a chance to learn about the latest advancements first hand. Practical workshops allow therapists to engage in hands-on training and practice new techniques under expert guidance. Additionally, events can lead to the forming of new connections with other professionals, enabling the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices that contribute to both personal and professional growth.

Online Courses and Webinars

Online courses and webinars have become increasingly popular forms of CPD, providing flexible and accessible learning options that can fit into busy schedules. These courses can cover a range of topics, from specific rehabilitation methods to the latest in therapeutic technologies. Online learning modules are often interactive, incorporating case studies, quizzes, and live Q&A sessions - allowing therapists to apply their learning practically. Webinars also frequently feature expert speakers who discuss trends and innovations, giving therapists insights that they can immediately apply in their practice.

Peer Networking and Collaboration

Collaborating with peers, either through professional associations or online communities, is an often overlooked but highly valuable method of CPD. Networking allows sports therapists to share experiences, discuss case studies, and troubleshoot common challenges. Peer discussions can be particularly beneficial for gaining practical advice on handling complex cases or integrating new techniques. Furthermore, collaborative networks can create mentorship opportunities, where more experienced therapists offer guidance, helping peers navigate career paths or specific professional hurdles.

Self-Directed Study

For therapists who prefer independent learning, self-directed study provides a flexible approach to CPD. This can include reading scientific journals, completing case studies, or conducting research on specific conditions or treatments. Self-directed study allows therapists to focus on areas of personal interest or need, deepening their expertise at their own pace. Though it is often less structured than formal courses, self-directed study is an excellent way to engage deeply with subjects, allowing for a tailored approach to professional growth.

For more information on the different types and methods of CPD learning, please visit our CPD Explained page.

How to set CPD Goals and Track Progress as a Sports Therapist

Establishing clear CPD goals is essential for making the most out of professional development efforts. By setting specific objectives—such as mastering a new skill, gaining knowledge in a new area, or enhancing communication skills—therapists can ensure their CPD activities are purposeful and impactful.

A valuable means of establishing effective professional goals is to follow the CPD Cycle. The CPD Cycle is a practical tool that helps structure CPD plans, learning objectives and outcomes, so that any training undertaken is suitable and worthwhile for Continuing Professional Development requirements. There is useful further reading on the CPD Cycle in our previous article here.

Tracking progress over time provides a roadmap for professional growth, showing how each CPD activity contributes to a more skilled and effective practice. myCPD Portal is a free online record tool to help you manage, track and record individual Continuing Professional Development as a sports therapist.

CPD isn’t just a professional requirement—but an ongoing opportunity for growth, learning, and career advancement. Ultimately, a commitment to CPD enables therapists to build a rewarding and dynamic career, enhancing both personal satisfaction and professional excellence in the field of sports therapy.

Where to find CPD courses for Sports Therapists

Established in 1996, The CPD Certification Service has over 27 years’ experience providing CPD accreditation. With members in over 100 countries, our CPD providers benefit from the ability to promote themselves as part of an international community where quality is both recognised and assured.

Within the CPD Courses Catalogue, you can find a comprehensive range of training courses, educational events, eLearning programs, conferences, workshops and seminars which have all been formally CPD certified. To find out more about a particular CPD sports therapy course listed on our website, please complete an enquiry form and the details will be sent directly to the relevant CPD provider.

How to become an accredited CPD provider

If you are interested in offering training or events suitable for Continuing Professional Development, please visit the Become a CPD Provider page or contact our team to discuss in more detail. Alternatively, if you are looking for a free online CPD record tool to help manage, track and log your ongoing learning, as well as store your professional training records and attendance certificates in one simple place, go to the myCPD Portal page.

REFERENCES

(1)     https://thesst.org/about-us/our-background-aims/