ATHLETIC TRAINER
The athletic trainer is an integral part of the health care system associated with physical activity and sports. With the consultation and supervision of attending and/or consulting physicians, the athletic trainer provides a variety of services, including injury prevention, recognition, immediate care, treatment, and rehabilitation after physical trauma.
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME AN ATHLETIC TRAINER?
An understanding of sports and athletes is essential. Through preparation in both academic and practical experience, athletic trainers provide many services to the athlete. They help manage, prevent, treat and rehabilitate injuries as directed by the team’s physicians. Through their knowledge of nutrition, hygiene, physiology, biomechanics, anatomy, conditioning and protective equipment, the athletic trainer helps athletes perform to the best of their ability while minimizing injury.
The minimum requirement to become an athletic trainer is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Many athletic trainers also have a master’s degree. Higher degrees may be required to be eligible for positions in colleges & universities, professional sports teams, or hospital settings. Many states require a certification and/or license that vary from state-to-state.
WHAT WILL I LEARN IN SCHOOL?
Curricula will include formal instruction in prevention and evaluation of athletic injuries and illnesses, first aid and emergency care, therapeutic exercise, administration of athletic training programs, human anatomy, human physiology, exercise physiology, kinesiology and biomechanics, nutrition, psychology, as well as personal and community health. The curriculum will also include a series of structured laboratory and clinical experiences.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Athletic trainers are employed in a variety of settings such as athletic organizations, middle and high schools, colleges and universities, health clubs, professional sports teams, sports medicine clinics, and private or hospital-based clinics.
PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:
National Athletic Trainers’ Association.
2952 Stemmons Freeway #200
Dallas, TX 75247
(214) 637- 6282
www.nata.org