Categories & Rules
Six disciplines. One world stage. Understand the competition structure, judging criteria, and official rules before you register.
Asian / Eastern Freestyle
The Art of Eastern Healing
Competitors demonstrate mastery of Asian and Eastern massage traditions — from Thai, Shiatsu, and Tuina to traditional Filipino techniques. Judges evaluate authenticity of technique, therapeutic effectiveness, and the practitioner's command of Eastern healing principles.
Western Freestyle
Precision Meets Therapeutic Excellence
Showcasing the full spectrum of Western massage modalities — Swedish, deep tissue, sports, and myofascial release — competitors are judged on technical precision, anatomical knowledge, and the quality of therapeutic outcome delivered to the client.
Nuad Thai
The Sacred Art of Thai Massage
Rooted in ancient Thai healing traditions, this category challenges competitors to demonstrate authentic Nuad Thai technique — from sen line work and acupressure to assisted stretching. Judges assess fidelity to tradition, body mechanics, and the meditative quality of the practice.
Spa / Facial
The Complete Spa Experience
Celebrating the art of spa and facial therapy, competitors create a full sensory wellness experience. From skin preparation and product application to massage technique and ambiance, judges evaluate the practitioner's ability to deliver a world-class spa treatment.
Student / New Practitioner
The Next Generation of Healers
Designed for students and practitioners with under two years of professional experience, this category provides a supportive competitive environment to showcase emerging talent. Judges recognize potential, foundational technique, and the passion that drives the next generation of massage professionals.
Barefoot Bodywork
Grounded in Strength and Skill
One of the most visually striking categories, Barefoot Bodywork challenges competitors to deliver deep, effective therapy using their feet and body weight. Techniques such as Ashiatsu, Chavutti Thirumal, and barefoot Lomi Lomi are evaluated for control, pressure calibration, and client safety.
Judging Criteria
The same 8-criterion, 100-point scoring system applies across all six competition categories.
General Competition Guidelines
1. Eligibility
- Open to licensed massage therapists, certified bodyworkers, massage students (where applicable), or practitioners with equivalent professional qualifications.
- Proof of professional credentials and professional liability insurance may be requested during event check-in.
2. Competition Entries
- Each participant may compete in up to two (2) categories.
- Category awards are judged independently for each entry.
- If a participant competes in two categories, only the highest overall score will be considered when determining the Overall Champion.
3. Registration
- Registration is confirmed only after payment is received.
- Registration fees are non-transferable except as approved by the Organizing Committee.
4. Models
- Competitors are responsible for bringing their own model unless otherwise announced.
- Models must be healthy, able to participate safely, and arrive on time.
5. Professional Conduct
- Competitors must demonstrate professionalism, respect, and good sportsmanship toward judges, volunteers, staff, fellow competitors, and models throughout the event.
6. Permitted Techniques
- Massage techniques must remain within the accepted scope of massage therapy.
- Chiropractic manipulations, high-velocity thrusts, and acupressure techniques are not permitted.
- Unsafe techniques may result in deductions or disqualification.
7. Performance Standards
- Competitors should demonstrate excellent body mechanics, client communication, flow, creativity where appropriate, professionalism, safety, and therapeutic effectiveness while remaining within the allotted competition time.
8. Judging
- International judges will evaluate competitors using standardized scoring criteria.
- All participants will automatically receive written or electronic feedback from jury members after the competition.
9. Equipment & Attire
- Professional attire is required.
- Appropriate draping must be maintained at all times.
- Approved equipment will be provided unless otherwise specified for a category.
10. Photography & Media
- By participating, competitors grant permission for photographs and video recordings to be used for educational and promotional purposes without additional compensation.
11. Awards
- Medals and certificates will be presented to category winners.
- The Overall Champion will receive the official summit trophy and the advertised cash prize.
12. Final Authority
- Judging decisions are final.
- The Organizing Committee reserves the right to interpret, amend, or update these guidelines when necessary to ensure fairness, safety, and the integrity of the summit.
"This summit is more than a competition. It is an opportunity to learn, connect, inspire, and elevate the massage profession. Be ready to hear feedback you may need to hear — that is what this event is all about."
Ready to Compete?
Registration for the 2027 Philippines World Massage Summit is now open. Secure your spot on the world stage.
Register Now