Fitness and Athletics
Historical Overview
The profession of athletic training started in the 1930s, with the majority of trainers working exclusively for athletes. In 1950, a group of athletic trainers formed the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) to create professional standards for all athletic trainers. NATA has grown significantly since then. Over 40% of athletic trainers are currently employed in clinics and hospitals under physicians.
Treatment Method
Athletic trainers provide a multitude of services. These include: injury prevention, physical evaluation, therapeutic exercise, nutrition, athletic preparation, and even psychological evaluation. Most states require athletic trainers to be licensed, as they are considered health care professionals.
Provider’s Training
Athletic Trainers must complete a Bachelor’s degree in an accredited athletic training program. To obtain certification, they are then required to pass the comprehensive board exam administrated by the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers. In addition to this initial training and certification, athletic trainers must complete 75 hours of continuing education credits every 3 years to maintain certification.
Credentials and Regulation Bodies
Licensed athletic trainers must complete their education in a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). They must also be certified by the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers, which is the regulation body that administers board exams as well as the status of certification of athletic trainers.
Professional Associations
The main professional association for licensed athletic trainers is the National Athletic Trainer’s Association (NATA).
The costs for fitness and athletic sessions will depend on the type of training, your trainer's level of expertise, your location. On average, training sessions will cost $70-$125 per hour.
To learn more about Athletic Training, visit the NATA website at www.nata.org.