Judge Guidelines

Our judges are selected based on experience, professionalism, and knowledge within the massage therapy industry. Preferred qualifications include:

• 5+ years as an active licensed massage therapist

• Massage therapy educator or assistant educator experience

• Previous judging experience at massage championships or industry events

• Strong knowledge of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and massage techniques

• Previous competition experience is preferred

 

Lead Judge

The Lead Judge oversees all judging operations and ensures championship standards and scoring guidelines are followed fairly and accurately.

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Lead Category Judge

Lead Category Judges are highly experienced in their division and help guide and support other judges within that category.

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Judge

Judges are assigned to categories they are qualified and comfortable evaluating based on their professional experience and practice background.

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Shadow Judge

Shadow Judges are judges-in-training observing and learning under a Lead Category Judge. Their scores are only used if needed for tie-breaking purposes.

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Judge Conduct

Judges are expected to remain professional, impartial, and focused throughout the competition. Phone use, filming, livestreaming, or other distractions during rounds is not permitted. Virtual judging is not allowed.