Certified Athletic Trainer

Certified Athletic Trainers work as allied health professionals who provide healthcare services under the direction of physicians in settings such as sports medicine clinics, schools, or professional sports teams. Through injury prevention, evaluation, and treatment, these professionals improve athletic performance, reduce injuries, and enhance recovery.

Duties and Responsibilities

Athletic trainers are responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Assessing, diagnosing, and treating athletes' injuries and illnesses
• Developing and implementing rehabilitation plans for injured athletes
• Providing first aid and emergency care at sporting events and practices
• Educating athletes on injury prevention and healthy lifestyles
• Working with coaches and other healthcare professionals to ensure athletes' health and well-being

Education and Certification

To become a Certified Athletic Trainer, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in athletic training or a related field. Additionally, candidates must pass a national exam administered by the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) and complete continuing education requirements every five years to maintain their certification.

Skills and Knowledge

Athletic trainers need a combination of technical skills and knowledge, such as:

• Emergency care procedures
• Injury evaluation and treatment
• Rehabilitation techniques
• Anatomy and physiology
• Exercise science
• Patient care
• Communication and interpersonal skills

Job Outlook