What is Athletic Training? Part 1: Job Requirements
When determining if athletic training is the right profession for you, the most common questions people ask themselves are: What do athletic trainers do? How do you become one? How much does an athletic trainer make? And, where do athletic trainers work?
To answer these questions in a simple and straightforward way, this blog is the first of a 4-part series breaking down the questions above.
In part 1 we are exploring what athletic trainers do and the job requirements to become one.
First, what do athletic trainers do…
Athletic trainers (ATs) are healthcare professionals who work with athletes and active individuals to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. Their duties typically include:
Development and implementation of injury prevention programs to help athletes reduce the risk of injury.
Evaluate and diagnose injuries to develop treatment plans for injured athletes
Treatment and rehabilitation services to help athletes recover from injuries and return to play safely.
Respond to and manage emergency situations, including sudden illnesses and injuries, on the playing field or in the training room.
Maintain detailed records of athletes' injuries and treatments, including assessments, diagnoses, and progress reports.
Communication with athletes, coaches, and other healthcare providers to ensure that injured athletes receive the best possible care.
Improve performance and skills to prevent future injuries by providing conditioning and training programs.
In short, ATs play a critical role in promoting the health and safety of active individuals, helping them perform at their best and stay safe.
Now, let’s break down the requirements to become an AT:
Education: To become an AT a bachelor's degree in athletic training or a related field from an accredited program is required. However, there have been some adjustments to the education requirements that will go into effect soon. Per the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA), "Athletic training is an academic major or graduate equivalent major program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). The current minimum entry point into the profession of athletic training is the baccalaureate level, however, it was recently decided by the AT Strategic Alliance that the minimum professional degree level will be a master's, a change to be implemented within the next several years."
Hands-On Experience: To gain hands-on experience you must complete clinical rotations through the accredited university program you're enrolled in.
Board of Certification Exam: Successful completion of the Board of Certification exam is required to become certified as an athletic trainer.
State Licensure: Most states require athletic trainers to be licensed to practice. Requirements for licensure vary by state, so it's important to check with your state's licensing board for specific requirements.
Continuing Education: Athletic trainers must complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification and stay current in their field. (Click here to earn FREE CEUs with the ATvantage Podcast Network!)
Professionalism: Athletic trainers must have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a commitment to providing safe and effective care to athletes.
Becoming an AT requires a strong commitment to education and hands-on experience, as well as the desire to help athletes and active individuals stay healthy and perform at their best. A career as an AT offers a unique combination of challenges and rewards and provides the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others.
If you're passionate about sports and have an interest in healthcare, a career as an athletic trainer may be the perfect fit for you. Whether you're working with a high school sports team, a professional athletic organization, the industrial setting, or in a private practice, you'll have the opportunity to use your skills and knowledge to help others stay active and achieve their goals!
