Athletic Trainers
Athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who help prevent, diagnose, and treat sports-related injuries for athletes of all levels. They apply protective gear like tape and braces, provide emergency first aid, and create personalized rehabilitation programs to get injured players back in the game. Using modern technology like ultrasound machines and movement analysis software, they work closely with coaches, doctors, and physical therapists in sports facilities, clinics, and schools. Most athletic trainers earn a bachelor's degree in athletic training and must pass a national certification exam to practice.
Did you know?
Most states require Athletic Health Specialists to obtain specific certifications such as NATA-BOC certification and maintain continuing education credits to practice legally.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$59,800 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Active Listening
Things to consider
Diverse Employment Opportunities
Career paths span professional sports teams, collegiate athletics, high schools, rehabilitation clinics, and corporate wellness programs across the expanding American sports and fitness industry.
Competitive Job Market
The field is highly competitive, particularly for positions with professional sports teams, requiring strong networking, specialized skills, and often geographic flexibility for career advancement.
Key responsibilities
Perform team support duties, such as running errands, maintaining equipment, or stocking supplies.
Collaborate with physicians to develop and implement comprehensive rehabilitation programs for athletic injuries.
Clean and sanitize athletic training rooms.
Conduct an initial assessment of an athlete's injury or illness to provide emergency or continued care and to determine whether they should be referred to physicians for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
Apply protective or injury preventive devices, such as tape, bandages, or braces, to body parts, such as ankles, fingers, or wrists.