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Athletic Trainer |
Career OverviewOne of the newest occupations in health care is that of the athletic trainer, or, as they are officially known, the certified athletic trainer.
Athletic trainers are qualified to diagnose sports injuries; in particular, to evaluate their severity. They provide primary care to athletes who suffer an injury and determine whether further medical care is required. In their professional capacity, athlete trainers may develop and implement injury-prevention programs, they may educate athletes on aspects of health care, such as correct nutrition and proper techniques for stretching muscles. They often supervise athlete training programs.
Most athletic trainers collaborate with physicians, physical therapists, and coaches to treat injured athletes. Certified athletic trainers help athletes to understand and carry out instructions from physicians and other medical personal pertaining to their health. They also help athletes and their trainers to select appropriate protective gear for training sessions to avoid injury.
Physical fitness centers, gyms, health clubs, and professional sports clubs employ certified athletic trainers to work with individuals and teams. The job requires a sound knowledge of and interest in sports but is extremely rewarding for those with dedication to the field. Physical fitness is desirable and often an important feature. The job generally requires moderate physical activity and may involve working outdoors.
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Career RequirementsTo become an athletic trainer, individuals must complete an accredited training program in the field. All training programs establish a high school diploma or its equivalent as the minimum requirement for admission.
Individuals are advised to study and take interest in biology, chemistry, and physics. They are also encouraged to have some knowledge of first aid and experience as a coach or team captain in some area of sports.
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Job OutlookIn the present climate, career opportunities are excellent for certified athletic trainers. Athletic trainers are employed in physical-fitness centers, at gyms, at health-club facilities, and by professional sports organizations and clubs. Such opportunities are only likely to increase in number as the focus upon maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise and dieting, in addition to the focus upon professional sports teams is held.
An increased interest in athletics is also stimulating opportunities in the field at high schools and middle schools, where athletic trainers are frequently called upon to combine teaching with their skills and knowledge of training activities.
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Career TrackMost trainers enter the field with a strong background and interest in sports and physical fitness. Those who are hired by professional sports organizations or clubs tend to have experience playing sports, often in leadership positions, affording a considerable knowledge of tactics and procedures of play. Athletic trainers hired by health-clubs and similar organizations tend to have extensive knowledge of physiological functions relating to exercise and general health.
Advancement is possible and tends to be through promotion or by earning a higher degree (graduate degrees, typically) that also support additional professional experience.
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CompensationThe income of a certified athletic trainer typically falls within the range of $25,000 to $45,000 per year. Standard benefits are offered with most positions and, because of the nature of the work, additional perks may include free health club membership or free or discounted tickets to sports events depending on the precise nature of the job.
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