Are you passionate about sports and helping people? Do you dream of working with athletes, helping them keep in top shape and quickly recover from injuries? If you’re nodding while reading this, you may be wondering how to become an athletic trainer.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for ATs is extremely positive. The market is expected to grow by 14% by 2032, and the median salary is nearly $58,000.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through some basic steps to become an athletic trainer in the United States. We’ll also go over some basic risk management techniques, like having the proper insurance. Let’s get to it!

What is an Athletic Trainer?

Athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who work with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat sports-related injuries. They’re vital to the health of athletes, helping them stay in the game and perform at their very best. Athletic trainers work in all sorts of settings; most commonly you’ll find them at schools and colleges, on staff for professional sports teams, and at clinics or hospitals.

What Do Athletic Trainers do?

Before you commit to becoming an athletic trainer, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. As an athletic trainer, you’ll work with doctors to help prevent and treat injuries by creating rehab and conditioning programs, teaching proper form and technique, determining the best equipment for clients, and educating them on safe practices. Other common duties include diagnosing injuries, determining their severity and planning the best course of action. As an AT, you may be on the front lines as a first responder.

Lastly, trainers may offer education to athletes, from nutrition and general wellness to mental health and more.

Do I Need a Degree to Become an Athletic Trainer?

If you want to become an athletic trainer, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree (and likely a master’s, too) from an accredited program. Most aspiring ATs major in athletic training, kinesiology, exercise science, or a related field. Ensure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). This accreditation is essential for certification later on. 

Your coursework will include subjects like anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition. Additionally, you’ll need to gain real-world experience through clinical rotations under the supervision of certified athletic trainers.

Athletic Trainer Certifications

After you complete your education, you’ll need to become certified. Most states use the standard exam offered by the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC). This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge and skills, and is required to become an AT. Once you’re certified, you must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the BOC Standards of Professional Practice to maintain your certification.

Do Athletic Trainers Need a License?

In most states, athletic trainers have to be licensed to practice. The requirements vary by state but typically include passing the BOC exam, meeting educational requirements, and completing continuing education. Make sure you’re complying with specific requirements for the state you plan to work in.

Advanced Education for Trainers

While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement, many athletic trainers pursue advanced education to enhance their skills and career opportunities. Some athletic trainers pursue a master’s degree in athletic training or a related field. For those interested in research or teaching at the college level, a doctoral or master’s degree might be a good option. Advanced education can provide deeper knowledge, specialized skills, and opportunities for career advancement.

Where Do Athletic Trainers Work?

Athletic trainers work in a variety of settings, such as schools and colleges, professional sports teams, clinics and hospitals, and even the military. Each setting offers unique opportunities and challenges, allowing you to find the environment that best fits your interests and career goals.

Do Athletic Trainers Need Insurance?

As an athletic trainer, you’ve got to be insured. You’ve already invested so much time and money in your career – don’t risk it!

Injuries are a matter of when, not if – things can and will go wrong, doubly so when you’re working with athletes who are at risk of secondary injuries. 

On top of that, it’s likely your state requires insurance. More than a dozen states require it, and the number is growing.

Liability insurance is how you protect yourself from the greatest risks of your career. From sports-related injuries to simple slips and falls, improper assessments and much more, your policy is a safeguard that covers your career and income.

Continuing Education for Trainers

Athletic training is a dynamic field, with new research and techniques emerging regularly. To stay current, attend workshops, conferences, and courses for continuing education. Networking with peers through professional organizations like the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Keeping up with the latest research and publications in sports medicine and athletic training is also essential for staying informed and effective in your role.

Conclusion

Becoming an athletic trainer is a rewarding career choice for those passionate about sports and helping others. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll have a solid start to becoming an athletic trainer!

FAQs

What education do I need to become an athletic trainer?

  • To become an athletic trainer, you need at least a bachelor’s degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Majors often include athletic training, kinesiology, or exercise science.

Do I need certification to practice as an athletic trainer?

  • Yes, after completing your degree, you must become certified by the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC). This involves passing the BOC exam, which tests your knowledge and skills.

Is state licensure required for athletic trainers?

  • In most states, athletic trainers must be licensed to practice. Requirements vary by state but typically include passing the BOC exam and meeting educational requirements. Research the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work.

Why is hands-on experience important in athletic training?

  • Hands-on experience, gained through clinical rotations during your degree program, is essential for developing your skills. It provides real-world experience in evaluating, treating, and rehabilitating injuries under the supervision of certified professionals.

What types of insurance are important for athletic trainers?

  • Athletic trainers should have professional and general liability insurance. These cover potential legal issues, medical care, income loss due to injury or illness, and accidents or injuries on your premises.