Massage Championship
& Showcase
Tempe, Arizona
A celebration of the artistry and beauty of Massage.
Looking for creativity, flow, and showmanship
Sponsored by Southwest Institute of Healing Arts
The first ever Massage Championship in the United States was organized by John Sanders, LMT, in 2019. Known as the Arizona Massage Championship, this signature event was sponsored and held at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA) in Tempe, Arizona since 2019, 2022 and 2023. John was inducted into the World Massage Hall of Fame for his contribution to starting a movement that led to 41 massage championships being held across America in 2023-2024.
Please join us once again for the exciting event:
Arizona Massage Championship & Showcase
Southwest Institute of Healing Arts
Saturday, November 1st, 2025
Registration is now open for professional licensed massage therapists to demonstrate the beauty and grace of their healing craft.
- Must have proof of license and current liability insurance
- Willing to sign a “Professionalism & Good Sportsmanship” declaration
This year’s Arizona Massage Championship & Showcase will also feature “Student Therapists & Recent Graduates “ These individuals will have an opportunity to ‘showcase’ their skills to valley employers, family & friends, and those individuals exploring massage as a viable career.
Our Purpose
- The Massage Championship is an opportunity for Massage Therapists to find professional inspiration and networking.
- By participating the Massage Therapists will get the opportunity to strengthen and improve their skills.
- A Certificate will be issued for each participant, enabling the Massage Therapists to brand their business in a new way.
Licensed Massage Therapist Competition: (10am-11am)
Freestyle Massage or Table/Mat Clothed Massage:
Grand Prize: 100 Hrs of SWIHA Classes = $2,000 Value
2nd Prize: 50 Hrs of SWIHA Classes = $1,000 Value
3rd Prize: 30 Hrs of SWIHA Classes = $600 Value
$35 Entry Fee includes:
T-Shirt; All participants will receive 20 Hrs of CEUs.
Student Showcase:
(12pm-1pm) Table Massage or
(1:30pm-2:30pm) Clothed Massage, Table/Mat
Open to Massage Students still in Training $20 for one category and $30 for two categories , includes:
T-Shirt; 8 Hrs of CEUs;
Letter of Participation for Resume
Grand Prize: $100 Bookstore Gift Certificate
2nd Prize: (1) Massage with a Licensed or/a Facial at our Aesthetics Clinic
John Sanders
Massage Championship Event Director
Email: johnmbb@hotmail.com for questions and information.
"Do what you fear and fear will disappear" ~ John Sanders
