Career Spotlight: How to Become a Athletic Trainer

Introduction to Our Baseball Careers Series

Welcome to our series on baseball careers! In these articles, we explore the many exciting jobs that help make the sport of baseball possible. From the players on the field to the people working behind the scenes, there are lots of ways to build a career in baseball. Today, we're looking at athletic trainers, important professionals who help keep players healthy and performing at their best.

What Does an Athletic Trainer Do?

Athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who work with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat muscle and bone injuries. In baseball, they are the people you see running onto the field when a player gets hurt. But their job involves much more than emergency care.

On a typical day, an athletic trainer might:

• Evaluate players' injuries
• Create recovery plans for injured players
• Tape ankles, wrists, and other body parts to prevent injuries
• Recommend exercises to strengthen weak areas
• Teach players how to avoid getting hurt
• Work with doctors and physical therapists
• Keep detailed records of players' health

Athletic trainers are often the first healthcare providers to see an athlete after an injury occurs. They must make quick decisions about whether a player can safely return to the game or needs further medical attention.

Education and Training Required

High School Preparation

If you're interested in becoming an athletic trainer, you should start preparing in high school. Take these important steps:

• Focus on science classes like biology, chemistry, and anatomy
• Study hard in math classes
• Take health and physical education classes
• Read regularly about sports medicine and the human body
• Join sports teams or volunteer with athletic programs
• Practice good study habits

College Education

After high school, you'll need to go to college. Doing well in school is essential for getting into a good athletic training program. Here's what you'll need:

• A bachelor's degree in athletic training or a related field
• Classes in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition
• Supervised clinical experience working with athletes

Advanced Requirements

To become a certified athletic trainer, you must:

• Earn a master's degree from an accredited athletic training program
• Pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam
• Get a license in the state where you want to work
• Complete continuing education to keep your certification

Skills Needed for Success

Besides formal education, athletic trainers need:

• Good communication skills
• The ability to stay calm in emergencies
• Problem-solving abilities
• Attention to detail
• Compassion for injured athletes
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods

Career Outlook

The demand for athletic trainers is growing. More teams are hiring full-time trainers to keep their valuable players healthy. Athletic trainers can work with professional teams, college athletic departments, high schools, sports medicine clinics, or hospitals.

Conclusion

Becoming an athletic trainer requires dedication to education and a genuine interest in helping athletes perform their best. By reading regularly, doing well in school, and completing college and graduate education, you can prepare for this rewarding career that puts you right in the action of baseball while making a difference in athletes' lives and health.