National athletic training is practiced by athletic trainers, who are considered health-care professionals and collaborate with medical personnel to optimize activity and participation of patients and clients, according to the National Athletic Trainers' Association. Athletic trainers spend time in college and beyond learning to prevent, diagnose and intervene in the treatment of emergency, chronic and acute medical conditions.
National Athletic Trainers' Association
NATA was founded in 1950 and is the professional membership organization for athletic trainers and those who support the profession. Its mission is to enhance the quality of health care provided by certified athletic trainers and to advance the profession. They currently have more than 30,000 members worldwide and are growing. They set the standards for professionalism, education, certification and practice settings for athletic training.
Education
The first step to becoming an athletic trainer is to earn a degree from an accredited athletic training program such as the one found at the University of Miami. Upon completion you will receive your Bachelor of Science degree. You will study all aspects of athletic training such as injury prevention, clinical evaluation and diagnosis, immediate care, treatment, rehabilitation and reconditioning. Also covered are organization, administration and professional responsibility. Many trainers choose to go beyond their bachelor's degree and continue their education in a master's program.
Board of Certification
The Board or Certification is the certifying body for athletic trainers. You cannot just go apply for a job upon earning your degree but must sit for the certification exam that proves you are competent and have the skills to be an athletic trainer. The BOC was established in 1989 to provide the certification for entry-level athletic trainers. It establishes and reviews the standards of practice and continuing education requirements for certified trainers. They are currently the only accredited certification for athletic trainers in the United States.
Athletic Training Careers
Athletic trainers are found in many settings. Most people think of professional sports but they are also employed at colleges and high schools. Beyond athletics you can find trainers in hospitals and clinics as well as industrial and occupational settings. They are also employed by the military to keep their personnel healthy. They work with all types of people and are not limited to just athletes.
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