What is Athletic Training?

Athletic training is an allied health care profession which was formally recognized by the American Medical Association in 1990. Certified athletic trainers are highly educated and skilled health care professionals who specialize in preventing, recognizing, managing and rehabilitating injuries that result from physical activity. As part of a complete health care team, the certified athletic trainer works under the direction of a licensed physician and in cooperation with other health care professionals, athletics administrators, coaches and parents. Athletic training is not the same profession as personal training and certified athletic trainers work with more than just athletes – they can be found just about anywhere that people are physically active. To become a certified athletic trainer, a student must pass a comprehensive test administered by the Board of Certification (BOC). Once certified, athletic trainers must meet ongoing continuing education requirements in order to remain certified. All certified athletic trainers hold a bachelor's degree and more than 70 percent of certified athletic trainers hold at least a master’s degree.

(Information from the website of the National Athletic Trainers' Association)

To Learn More About the Athletic Training Profession click on the logo below to visit the website of The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA).

More Informative Links

1. NATA Research and Education Foundation

2. Mid Atlantic Athletic Trainers' Association

3. South Carolina Athletic Trainers' Association