Athletic Trainer Career Description

With the growing health craze to mange weight and remain in shape throughout the adult years, the athletic trainer has become an indispensable profession in the health care industry.  The growing cost of treating cardiovascular diseases associated with obesity that has become the plaque of 21^st century lifestyles has made sure of that.

Education and Training required

The job requires a college degree from about 350 accredited undergraduate programs across the country. Formal education covers science and health-related courses.  About 70% of athletic trainers have a master’s degree or higher, according to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association.  This is often needed to land in colleges and universities, and increase their career opportunities. Some positions in secondary schools involve teaching so that teaching certificate or license is required.

As of 2009, you need to pass the BOS (Board of Certification) to be registered as an athletic trainer and a continuing education in medical related courses to remain certified.

Athletic Trainer: Getting the Job

Jobs for athletic trainers are expected to grow by 37% from 2008 to 2018 with better prospects in the health gyms and athletic centers as resident fitness trainers for their growing health and weight conscious clients. A more secure position can be found supervising college and university gym classes or acting as coaches in sporting leagues.  There are also athletic trainer positions in the military.

Athletic Trainer Working Conditions

Most of the work involve supervising workouts in professional gyms, fitness clubs and health spas for groups and private health conscious individuals.  It also can bring you to  coach sporting activities for national and international competitions as well as for students in schools, colleges and varsity clubs which can be both private or in government agencies, including the military.

Athletic Trainer Salary and Benefits

Athletic trainers work in full-time positions enjoying an annual median annual salary of about $39,500 as of 2008.  The vast 50%  is the workers population curve earned between $32,000 and $49,300. The lowest 10% took less than $23,500 while the top 10% took more than $61,000.