I'm considering becoming an athletic trainer for high school sports but want to know more about the job description. What are the key responsibilities, and what certifications or skills should I focus on getting to succeed in this role?
An athletic trainer at a high school serves an important role in promoting and maintaining the health and wellbeing of student-athletes. Here are some of the key roles they play:
- Prevention of Injuries: Athletic trainers design and implement training programs and strategies to prevent injuries in athletes. This may involve teaching proper techniques, recommending suitable sports gear, and providing advice on how to stay safe during training and games.
- Injury Assessment: If a student does get injured, the trainer is often the first one on the scene. They evaluate the situation, decide if further medical intervention is necessary, and can perform immediate treatments such as bandaging wounds or immobilizing broken bones.
- Rehabilitation: After an injury, trainers often guide athletes through their recovery process. This includes designing and facilitating rehabilitation exercises, monitoring recovery progress, and deciding when an athlete is ready to re-enter the game.
- Conditioning: Athletic trainers develop conditioning programs to help athletes improve their performance and reduce the risk of injuries. They provide guidance on strength training, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, and other elements of a well-rounded athletic training regimen.
- Education and Counseling: Trainers provide advice and counseling to student-athletes on matters like nutrition, personal health, and injury management.
As for skills and certifications, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in athletic training, sports medicine, or a related field. Most employers prefer athletic trainers who are certified, which generally requires passing a comprehensive exam from a recognized body such as the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC). Effective communication, empathy, and critical thinking skills are key in this profession since you'll be working closely with student-athletes and making quick decisions regarding their health and safety. Finally, staying updated on the latest research in sports medicine will enable you to offer the best care and advice to your athletes.
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