How to Become an Athletic Trainer (Train Hard, Win Easy!)
If you’ve ever dreamed of training athletes to reach their peak performance or wondered what it takes to become an athletic trainer, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as an athletic trainer. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can propel your career.
- How to land a job as an athletic trainer.
So, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a health-conscious individual looking to transition, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become an athletic trainer.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become an Athletic Trainer
Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities
As an aspiring athletic trainer, the first step is to gain a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities associated with this profession.
Athletic trainers work directly with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries and illnesses.
They have a unique role in healthcare and sports, working with a team of professionals from coaches, physicians, to physical therapists to ensure the overall health and safety of athletes.
Their typical responsibilities include developing injury prevention programs, administering first aid or emergency care, evaluating injuries and their severity, creating and implementing rehabilitation programs for injured athletes, and educating people on how to avoid injuries.
They may work in various settings such as schools, colleges, professional sports teams, clinics, or corporate settings.
Understanding these responsibilities will give you a realistic idea of what it means to be an athletic trainer.
Therefore, it’s recommended to spend time researching, conducting informational interviews with current athletic trainers, and even seeking job-shadowing opportunities.
This will give you first-hand insight into the day-to-day tasks and challenges an athletic trainer faces and will help you make an informed decision about whether this career path is right for you.
Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
To become an Athletic Trainer, one of the initial steps involves obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
Most athletic trainers typically complete a degree in Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, or a related field.
During your bachelor’s program, you’ll learn about the human body, exercise science, and therapeutic methods to prevent and treat sports injuries.
Courses typically include anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition.
This foundational knowledge will serve as the backbone of your understanding as an athletic trainer.
Most programs also include a clinical component where students can gain hands-on experience under the supervision of a professional athletic trainer.
This will allow you to apply the theoretical knowledge you have learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios.
It is also beneficial to participate in internships or work-study programs in settings such as sports medicine clinics, collegiate athletic departments, or professional sports organizations to gain practical experience and make valuable connections in the industry.
Additionally, keep in mind that as of 2022, the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) has determined that a master’s degree will be the minimum education requirement to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) examination, so you may want to plan for further study after completing your bachelor’s degree.
Step 3: Complete an Accredited Athletic Training Program
In your pursuit to become an athletic trainer, it is essential to complete an accredited Athletic Training program.
These programs are typically offered at the bachelors or masters level by universities and colleges.
They are designed to provide a strong foundation in science and health-related topics, as well as specific training in injury prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation.
You’ll likely take courses in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, exercise physiology, nutrition, therapeutic modalities, and athletic training clinical practices.
In addition to classroom study, these programs also offer hands-on clinical experience which allows you to apply the theories you’ve learned in real-world situations.
Choose a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
This accreditation ensures that the program meets the required educational standards and adequately prepares you for your career as an athletic trainer.
Upon completion of an accredited program, you’ll be eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam.
Passing this exam is a requirement in most states in the U.S to practice as a certified athletic trainer.
Remember, the goal is not just to acquire knowledge but to also develop practical skills that will be crucial in your role as an athletic trainer.
Therefore, be proactive in gaining as much practical experience as possible during this stage.
Step 4: Gain Practical Experience
After completing your academic studies, it is crucial to gain practical experience in athletic training.
This experience can be gained through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in settings such as high schools, colleges, professional sports teams, and rehabilitation centers.
Your hands-on experience will help you to develop your clinical skills, apply theoretical knowledge learned during your degree, and gain a better understanding of the challenges and realities of being an athletic trainer.
During this phase, you will learn how to provide first aid and emergency care, design and implement rehabilitation programs for injured athletes, and educate them on how to avoid injuries and improve performance.
You will also work under the supervision of experienced professionals, which will give you the opportunity to learn from their expertise and improve your own skills and techniques.
Furthermore, most states require athletic trainers to have a certain amount of practical experience to be eligible for licensure.
Therefore, gaining practical experience is not only beneficial for your skills development but also a requirement to legally practice as an athletic trainer.
Remember to document all your practical experiences, as these will be valuable when you seek certification or apply for jobs in the future.
Step 5: Become Certified
After completing your education, the next step is to become certified as an athletic trainer.
This is a crucial step in your career because many employers require certification.
To be certified, you must pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam for Athletic Trainers, administered by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA).
The BOC exam is a comprehensive test that covers a wide range of topics, including injury prevention, recognition and evaluation, immediate care, treatment, and rehabilitation.
It also covers organization and administration, as well as professional responsibility.
The BOC certification is valid for 3 years.
During that period, you must complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain your certification.
The CEUs ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and knowledge in the field of athletic training.
In addition to the BOC certification, some states also require athletic trainers to be licensed.
The requirements for licensure vary by state, so you’ll need to check with your state’s regulatory board for specific information.
Remember, becoming certified not only gives you the credentials to practice as an athletic trainer but also demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your readiness to provide the highest level of care to your patients.
Step 6: Obtain State Licensure
In order to practice as an athletic trainer, you must obtain a state license.
The specific requirements for licensure vary by state, but generally, you will need to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in athletic training or a related field, pass a national certification exam, and complete a set number of clinical hours.
The national certification exam, administered by the Board of Certification (BOC), covers a variety of topics such as injury and illness prevention and wellness promotion, clinical evaluation and diagnosis, immediate and emergency care, and therapeutic intervention.
Passing this exam demonstrates your competency and understanding in these key areas of athletic training.
In addition to passing the certification exam, you will also need to complete a set number of clinical hours under the supervision of a licensed athletic trainer.
This hands-on experience is critical for gaining practical knowledge in the field, learning how to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios, and developing your skills in working with athletes and patients.
After obtaining licensure, many states require athletic trainers to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.
This ensures that you stay current on the latest advancements in the field and continue to provide the highest level of care to your patients.
Remember, working without a valid state license can result in severe penalties, so it’s essential to understand and follow the licensure requirements in your specific state.
Step 7: Continue Education
Athletic Training is a profession that requires constant learning and development due to the continuous advancement in sports science and medicine.
As an Athletic Trainer, it’s important to regularly update your knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care for your athletes.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are required for maintaining your certification as an Athletic Trainer.
These units can be obtained by attending seminars, workshops, conferences, or courses related to athletic training.
Some topics you may want to consider include advanced injury prevention, sport-specific conditioning, nutrition for athletes, or rehabilitation techniques.
Furthermore, you may choose to pursue advanced degrees in fields such as Sports Medicine, Exercise Physiology, or Physical Therapy.
These degrees can provide deeper insights into the human body and its response to physical activity, thereby enhancing your ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat athletic injuries.
Also, consider joining professional associations like the National Athletic Trainers’ Association.
Being part of these organizations can provide you with opportunities to network with other professionals in your field, stay updated with the latest research and trends in athletic training, and access resources for continuing education.
Remember, the more you learn, the more effective you can be in helping athletes perform at their best and recover from injuries.
Therefore, make continuing education a priority in your career as an Athletic Trainer.
Step 8: Join a Professional Organization
Joining a professional organization is a significant step in furthering your career as an Athletic Trainer.
It provides networking opportunities, access to the latest research and trends in the field, continuing education courses, and career advancement opportunities.
Organizations such as the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) offer membership to professionals in the field.
These bodies also provide certification opportunities, which can increase your credibility and potentially lead to higher-paying jobs.
Membership in these organizations often includes access to annual conferences, newsletters and journals, job boards, and other resources.
It also enables you to connect with other athletic trainers, which can lead to mentorship opportunities and collaborations.
Remember, being an active member of a professional organization means more than just paying your dues.
Attend meetings and conferences, participate in discussions, take advantage of continuing education opportunities, and volunteer for leadership roles.
This involvement will not only help you to stay informed about the latest industry developments, but it will also make you more noticeable and respected in your field.
Step 9: Network with Other Athletic Trainers
Networking with other athletic trainers is a pivotal step in advancing your career in this field.
It provides the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, exchange ideas, get insights about the latest trends and techniques in athletic training, and even gain recommendations or references for future job opportunities.
There are multiple ways to network effectively as an athletic trainer.
Firstly, attend industry conferences and seminars where you can meet and mingle with fellow athletic trainers.
Such events often include presentations and workshops on the latest research and advances in athletic training which can help you stay up-to-date with your practice.
You can also join professional organizations such as the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA).
Membership in such organizations offers numerous benefits including exclusive networking events, access to job boards, and continuous education opportunities.
Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, also offer a platform to connect with athletic trainers from all over the world.
Joining relevant groups and participating in discussions can enhance your visibility in the field.
Remember that networking is not just about taking, but also giving.
Be ready to share your own experiences and knowledge, and always follow up with new contacts to nurture and maintain these relationships.
These connections can prove invaluable as you progress in your athletic training career.
Step 10: Apply for Athletic Trainer Positions
Once you have completed your education and obtained all necessary certifications, you can begin to apply for athletic trainer positions.
Start by looking for job postings in various places such as online job portals, sports teams’ websites, universities’ websites, and professional networks.
Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each position you apply for, highlighting your relevant experience, skills, and education.
You can apply to a wide range of settings such as schools, colleges, professional sports teams, rehabilitation centers, or even corporations.
Each setting may require slightly different skills and duties, so carefully read the job description to ensure you are a good fit.
While applying, be prepared to showcase your practical skills in potential interviews.
This can include demonstrating how you would evaluate an injury, design a rehab program, or work with a team to prevent injuries.
Don’t forget to follow up on your applications.
If you haven’t received a response within a reasonable time frame, it’s perfectly acceptable to contact the employer for an update.
Persistence shows your continued interest in the position.
Finally, always continue networking.
Even after you’ve secured a job, maintaining relationships within the field can provide valuable opportunities for advancement and learning in the future.
Step 11: Maintain Certification and Licensure
As an Athletic Trainer, it is essential to maintain your certification and licensure to continue practicing in your profession.
Certification maintenance usually requires the completion of continued education units (CEUs) every few years.
The Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers (BOC), for example, requires trainers to complete a certain amount of CEUs every two years to maintain their certification.
These CEUs can be earned through attending workshops, conferences, or completing additional coursework in areas of interest related to athletic training.
It’s also important to stay updated on new research, methods, and techniques in the field to provide the best care to athletes.
In addition to maintaining certification, licensure renewal is also important.
Most states require athletic trainers to be licensed, and the requirements for licensure renewal can vary from state to state.
However, generally, licensure renewal also involves completing a certain number of CEUs and may require proof of professional competency.
Finally, staying connected with professional organizations in athletic training can provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and staying informed on changes in the industry.
This can be beneficial for maintaining certification, licensure, and overall professional growth in the field.
Step 12: Stay Updated with Best Practices and Emerging Research
As an athletic trainer, it’s crucial to stay current with the latest research, best practices, and industry trends to provide the best care possible to your clients.
This could include new injury prevention techniques, effective rehabilitation exercises, or new insights into athlete nutrition and wellness.
Subscribing to professional journals, attending conferences, and participating in continuing education courses are some of the ways to stay informed.
These resources not only provide updated knowledge, but also enable you to network with other professionals in your field and learn from their experiences.
Furthermore, maintaining membership with professional organizations such as the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) can provide additional resources and opportunities for learning.
They often offer webinars, workshops, and other forms of professional development specific to athletic trainers.
Additionally, with technology playing a growing role in sports medicine, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the latest tools and software used in athlete training and rehabilitation.
This commitment to continuous learning and improvement will not only enhance your service to athletes, but also contribute to your professional growth and advancement in the field of athletic training.
Step 13: Specialize and Gain Advanced Certifications (Optional)
After gaining initial experience and certification, Athletic Trainers may choose to pursue advanced specializations or certifications.
These specializations can provide additional competencies, open up new job opportunities, and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.
There are various areas of specialization in athletic training such as orthopedic rehabilitation, concussion management, or working with a specific population (e.g., professional athletes, youth sports, geriatric patients).
For instance, you could become a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) if you want to work more on improving athletic performance.
Certifications are offered by various organizations such as the Board of Certification (BOC) for the Athletic Trainer, National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and American Council on Exercise (ACE).
These organizations offer various certification exams which require continuing education and periodic re-certification.
Before selecting a specialization or certification, consider your career goals, interests, and the demand in your desired area of work.
Some roles may require additional certification, while others value experience and demonstrated skill more highly.
Remember, specializing and gaining advanced certifications is optional, but it could give you an edge in the competitive field of athletic training.
Step 14: Pursue a Master’s or Doctoral Degree (Optional)
To further your career as an Athletic Trainer, you may consider pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.
These advanced degrees often provide deeper knowledge in sports medicine, athletic rehabilitation, or even exercise physiology, which can enable you to work in more specialized or advanced roles within the industry.
In a master’s program, you will usually have the choice between a research-oriented track, which involves completing a thesis, and a clinically focused track, which involves more hands-on experience.
The choice will depend on your career goals.
If you aim to be involved in academic or research work, or if you have plans to pursue a doctorate degree in the future, the thesis track may be more suitable.
If your goal is to work in a clinical setting such as a sports team, a school, or a health care facility, the clinically-focused track may be more relevant.
Doctoral degrees in athletic training are also available for those who wish to conduct high-level research or teach at a university level.
Such programs may take several years to complete, but they can provide you with the highest level of knowledge and training in the field.
Remember, while an advanced degree can open up more opportunities, it is not a requirement to practice as an Athletic Trainer.
It is an investment in your education and career, and it should align with your personal and professional goals.
Athletic Trainer Roles and Responsibilities
Athletic Trainers are healthcare professionals who collaborate with physicians to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Injury Prevention and Wellness Protection
- Develop and implement comprehensive injury prevention programs for athletes.
- Advise on appropriate use of equipment and protective clothing.
- Conduct pre-participation physical examinations and health history screenings.
Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis
- Perform clinical evaluations and diagnoses on injured athletes.
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of concussions and other sports-related injuries.
- Make referrals to other healthcare professionals when necessary.
Immediate and Emergency Care
- Provide first aid and emergency care for acute injuries.
- Coordinate emergency action plans and provide appropriate care in emergency situations.
Therapeutic Intervention
- Design and implement therapeutic exercise programs for rehabilitation.
- Provide therapeutic modalities, such as massage and ultrasound.
- Monitor progress and adjust the intervention strategies as needed.
Healthcare Administration and Professional Responsibility
- Maintain accurate records of injuries, treatments, and progress.
- Stay informed about the latest research and advancements in athletic training.
- Adhere to professional and ethical standards in providing healthcare services.
Education and Counseling
- Educate athletes about their injuries and the rehabilitation process.
- Provide guidance on nutrition, performance, and injury prevention.
- Counsel athletes on psychological strategies for dealing with injury and performance issues.
Collaboration
- Work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, physical therapists, and coaches.
- Communicate effectively with athletes, parents, and coaches about the status and progress of injuries.
Continuous Learning
- Participate in continuous education to maintain certification and improve skills and knowledge.
- Attend conferences, workshops, and training programs in the field of sports medicine and athletic training.
What Does an Athletic Trainer Do?
Athletic Trainers are skilled health care professionals who collaborate with doctors to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions to athletes.
They work closely with athletes to prevent, diagnose and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.
They are often present at sporting events to provide immediate care to athletes who are injured during competition.
Their role includes the development and coordination of athletic injury prevention and rehabilitation programs.
They provide physical therapy and treatments to help athletes recover from injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or surgeries.
Additionally, they educate athletes on how to reduce their risk for injuries.
They may also advise athletes on the proper use of equipment, exercises to improve balance and strength, and stretches to increase flexibility.
In some cases, they may also work in conjunction with coaches and sports staff, providing them with advice on how training regimes and techniques can be modified to minimize the risk of injury.
Many Athletic Trainers work in educational settings, such as high schools or colleges.
However, they can also be found in hospitals, fitness centers, or working for professional sports teams.
Essential Athletic Trainer Skills
- Physical Fitness: Athletic trainers must maintain a high level of physical fitness to effectively demonstrate exercises and rehabilitative techniques to athletes. They also need to keep up with athletes during training.
- Injury Assessment: Trainers need to know how to identify and assess sports injuries promptly. This includes understanding the signs of common injuries, knowing when to refer athletes to other medical professionals, and developing appropriate recovery plans.
- First Aid and CPR: In case of emergencies, athletic trainers need to be well-versed in providing immediate care like first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
- Kinesiology Knowledge: Understanding the science of human movement is essential for developing training programs that maximize performance and minimize injury risk.
- Nutrition: Athletic trainers should have a good understanding of sports nutrition to help athletes fuel their bodies properly for optimal performance and recovery.
- Communication: Trainers must be able to communicate effectively with athletes, coaches, and other healthcare professionals. They need to explain complex health issues in easy-to-understand terms and motivate athletes throughout their recovery process.
- Patience: Healing takes time, and athletic trainers must be patient with athletes as they recover from injuries. They must also be capable of maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.
- Problem-solving: Athletic trainers need to be able to solve problems quickly and effectively, whether it’s adapting a training plan to accommodate an injury or finding new ways to motivate a struggling athlete.
- Organization: Keeping track of athletes’ progress, managing schedules, and maintaining up-to-date records requires strong organizational skills.
- Empathy: Athletic trainers often work with athletes during difficult times, such as after an injury. The ability to empathize with athletes and understand their physical and emotional struggles is important.
- Physical Therapy Knowledge: Familiarity with physical therapy techniques is necessary to help athletes recover from injuries and regain full function.
- Teamwork: Athletic trainers often work as part of a larger sports medicine team. They need to be able to collaborate with other professionals, such as doctors and physical therapists, to ensure athletes receive comprehensive care.
Athletic Trainer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Assistant Athletic Trainer
Your journey begins as an Assistant Athletic Trainer, an integral part of the sports medicine team.
You’ll gain practical experience as you support athletes in injury prevention, evaluation, and recovery.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest techniques and advancements in sports medicine and injury prevention.
- Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced Athletic Trainers and other medical professionals to broaden your knowledge.
- Proactive Involvement: Assist athletes with training and injury prevention protocols actively.
The Ascent: Athletic Trainer
As you gain experience, you’ll transition into the role of an Athletic Trainer.
You’ll take on more responsibility in diagnosing and treating injuries, and designing and implementing rehabilitation programs.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Problem Solving: Develop your decision-making skills for efficient injury diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Interpersonal Skills: Build strong relationships with athletes, coaches, and medical personnel for effective communication and collaboration.
- Adherence to Protocols: Ensure strict compliance with safety procedures and ethical guidelines in athlete care.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Athletic Trainer
The next step in your career is the position of a Senior Athletic Trainer.
You’ll be recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team, and you may take on roles in training new Athletic Trainers, making key decisions, and leading rehabilitation programs.
To excel as a Senior Athletic Trainer:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior trainers and help them grow.
- Strategic Thinking: Contribute to the development and implementation of athlete healthcare strategies and protocols.
- Leadership: Inspire others with your dedication, work ethic, and commitment to athletes’ well-being.
Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond
As you progress in your career, you may choose to specialize in a specific area of athletic training or transition into management roles like Athletic Director or Rehabilitation Coordinator.
Each role comes with increased responsibility and the opportunity to shape the sports medicine program.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Specialization: Hone your expertise in a specific area such as concussion management, orthopedics, or sports nutrition.
- Management Skills: Develop leadership and communication abilities to effectively guide your team or department.
- Innovation: Stay updated with the latest research and incorporate innovative practices in your work.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Sports Medicine or Athletic Training
At the highest level, you might reach roles like Director of Sports Medicine or Athletic Training.
You’ll be responsible for shaping the overall strategy of the sports medicine program, making vital decisions, and managing larger teams.
Athletic Trainer Salary
Entry-Level Athletic Trainer
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
- Entry-level athletic trainers typically have 0-2 years of experience. They generally hold a bachelor’s degree in athletic training, sports medicine, or a related field, and are usually responsible for basic injury prevention and treatment in athletes.
Mid-Level Athletic Trainer
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
- Mid-level athletic trainers have 2-5 years of experience. They are often responsible for coordinating injury prevention and recovery programs, collaborating with physicians, and providing emergency care if necessary.
Senior Athletic Trainer
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Senior athletic trainers possess 5+ years of experience. They typically manage a team of trainers, develop and implement comprehensive rehabilitation programs, and liaise with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal patient care.
Athletic Training Manager/Coordinator
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $110,000+ per year
- These roles require significant experience and often involve managing the entire athletic training program, coordinating with coaching staff, and making decisions on protocols and procedures for athlete health and safety.
Director of Athletic Training
- Median Salary: $110,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep understanding of sports medicine, and often involve setting strategies for athlete health and safety for an entire sports organization or educational institution.
Athletic Trainer Work Environment
Athletic Trainers typically work in fitness and recreation centers, schools, colleges and universities, as well as professional sports teams.
They might also find employment opportunities in hospitals, physical therapy clinics, or corporate wellness programs.
Athletic Trainers often have variable work schedules depending on the needs of their clients or teams, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
This career also involves a significant amount of standing, walking, and running alongside athletes during training and games.
Traveling is a frequent part of the job, especially when working with teams during their competition seasons.
Athletic Trainers must also be prepared to work outdoors in various weather conditions during sports events.
After gaining experience, an Athletic Trainer might decide to open their own fitness training center or consulting firm.
They might also consider specializing in a particular sport or focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation.
FAQs About Becoming an Athletic Trainer
What is needed to become an athletic trainer?
To become an athletic trainer, you need a strong foundation in sports medicine and related health sciences.
This can be achieved through formal education, such as a bachelor’s degree in athletic training or a related field like exercise science or kinesiology.
In addition, most states require athletic trainers to be certified, which usually involves passing the Board of Certification (BOC) Exam.
Key skills include knowledge of injury prevention, evaluation, and rehabilitation, as well as emergency care, therapeutic intervention, and communication skills.
How long does it take to be an athletic trainer?
The time it takes to become an athletic trainer can vary depending on your educational path and experience level.
If you pursue a traditional bachelor’s degree in athletic training or a related field, it typically takes four years.
Many trainers also complete a two-year master’s program.
Following this, you will need to pass the BOC Exam and meet any additional state licensure or certification requirements.
In total, the process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 years.
Can I be an athletic trainer without a degree?
No, a degree is usually required to become an athletic trainer.
Most states require athletic trainers to have at least a bachelor’s degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
In addition to this, athletic trainers must pass the BOC Exam and meet any additional state licensure or certification requirements.
Is being an athletic trainer a stressful job?
Being an athletic trainer can be stressful at times, as it often involves high-pressure situations, such as dealing with sports-related injuries on the spot.
Additionally, athletic trainers may work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate sports schedules.
However, many athletic trainers find the job rewarding as they get to work closely with athletes and play a key role in their health and performance.
What are the prospects for athletic trainers in the next decade?
The job outlook for athletic trainers over the next decade is promising.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for athletic trainers is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by an increasing awareness of sports-related injuries and the importance of prevention and treatment.
Opportunities are expected to increase across various settings, including schools, colleges, professional sports, and healthcare organizations.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Embarking on the journey to become an athletic trainer is no small task, but it’s undeniably rewarding.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making a substantial difference in the field of sports and athletics.
Remember, the journey may be arduous, but the opportunities are boundless. Your contributions could lead to improved athletic performance, enhanced recovery methods, or even the next breakthrough in sports science.
So, take that initial stride. Immerse yourself in continuous learning. Connect with professionals. And most importantly, never stop training and educating.
Because the world of sports is eagerly waiting for your expertise.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or progressing your career in athletic training, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to aid you in navigating your career path successfully.
The Platinum Standard: The Most Prestigious Jobs in the Industry
Market Must-Haves: The Jobs That Are Trending Now
The Path to Prosperity: Unveiling This Year’s Top Earning Jobs!
Jobs That Will Make You Envious: Fun Careers with Big Paychecks
