In honor of March being National Athletic Trainer Month, Sara Nickoles, a MOST ATC, has written a piece explaining the certification process and duties of an athletic trainer.
The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) describes athletic trainers as health care professionals who work alongside physicians to ensure that patients and clients are able to participate in physical activity at the most optimal level. Athletic trainers are proficient in the prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of acute or chronic injuries sustained by athletes and the physically active, in addition to first response and basic life support care in life-threatening injuries. Certified athletic trainers must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited athletic training education program and pass a board certified exam to legally practice the profession. They must also pursue ongoing continuing education requirements to maintain their certification. According to NATA, "More than 70% certified athletic trainers hold at least a master's degree." Athletic trainers practice in many different settings including physical therapy clinics, high schools, colleges and universities, and professional sports. To learn more about athletic trainers please visit The National Athletic Trainers' Association website.
Written by Sara Nickoles, MS, ATC
