Athletic trainers are recognized by the American Health Association as allied health professionals. In their line of work, athletic trainers specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses. Athletic trainers are often first responders when an injury occurs and must be able to recognize and evaluate injuries as well as provide immediate care.
Workplace
The type of industry you are involved in and your individual employer are the greatest determinants of the workplace. Typically, most athletic trainers work indoors, however, particularly those involved with sports will spend most of their time working outside. Schedules will also vary by industry with those who are in non-sport industries working an average of 40 to 50 hours per week. Those athletic trainers who work with sports teams are expected to be present for practices as well as competitions.
Duties
On a given day, an athletic trainer is asked to perform a number of different tasks. You may be asked to provide physical medicine or rehabilitation services to individuals with both chronic as well as acute injuries. As an athletic trainer, you may have to travel to your assignments at schools, colleges, professional training facilities, clinics, hospitals or even within corporations. At times you may coordinate care with physicians and other allied health professionals.
Training and Education
Most athletic training positions require an individual to have a bachelor's degree in athletic training from an accredited undergraduate institution. Currently, 47 states require athletic trainers to be licensed or registered and this can be completed by passing a written test administered by a board of certification. You will be required to keep your knowledge and skills current through participation in continuing education courses. Adherence to standards of professional practice must be followed at all times.
Salary
In most cases, athletic trainers work full time and may receive benefits. Salary is dependent on experience and job responsibilities, and can vary by job setting. The median annual wages for athletic trainers were $39,640 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent of athletic trainers earned between $32,070 and $49,250. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $23,450 while the top 10 earned over $60,960.
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