Terry Thomas
Private Clinic & Professional Sport
Growing up, I was fortunate enough to play various sports such as football, tennis, and athletics. However, I suffered from many injuries as a result of playing, my most severe being a broken leg during the final year of my degree.
After studying, I worked within the financial industry. However, after a year and a half I realised it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I wanted to provide a service where I felt my contribution helped individuals, similar to how the surgeon and physiotherapists helped with my physical rehabilitation but in my own way. I still wanted my role to be in line with my personal interests and Sports and rehabilitation fit that category. Therefore, in 2021, I began studying a Level 5 diploma in Sports Massage and Remedial Soft Tissue therapy at the North London School of Sports Massage and Remedial Soft Tissue Therapy
My first role since qualifying was as an intern for Crystal Palace FC Men’s first team which I applied for through the NLSSM network. I now work for the club on a part-time basis. I then started my mobile massage service called New Form Therapy Ltd providing treatments for vulnerable individuals with conditions such as Parkinson’s as well as helping people with their injuries. I’m also working out of a studio in Forest Hill providing my services to members of the public, whether it’s for a general massage to help with their neck/ back pain or if it’s to treat an issue that has been bothering them despite trying other professionals.
Additionally, I work with a group of talented junior athletes who are national champions and at the top of their age group rankings, prepping them for training/ competitions as well as managing their recovery from injuries.
It’s safe to say that deciding to change my profession and study sports massage has changed my life for the better. NLSSM has provided me with the skills and knowledge to improve the quality of life for others all while enjoying myself as I do so.
