How to Become a Sports Trainer
Athletic or sports trainers work with high school, college and professional athletes in the prevention and treatment of injuries. This requires in-depth knowledge--usually gained through college-level courses--of the different parts and functions of the body as they relate to exercise.
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Instructions
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Find an accredited degree program in sports or athletic training. The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education oversees athletic and sports training academic programs at colleges and universities. To qualify for certification, attend a college accredited by this organization, which you can find on their website.
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Complete a bachelor's degree and master's, if needed. There are jobs available to sports trainers who hold a bachelor's degree, although the majority of employers look for job candidates with a master's degree. In fact, the University of Virginia found in a 2003 research study that 67 percent of athletic training positions at colleges and universities either required or preferred a master's degree.
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Register for and pass the certification exam. Then, become nationally certified by passing an exam given by the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers. First, register for the certification exam, which entails submitting an exam application, endorsement from the program director at your school and proof of certification in emergency cardiac care (CPR).
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Apply for a state license if required. This requires submitting an application, licensing or registration fee and proof of certification. Some states also require applicants to submit professional references and a resume detailing experience as an athletic trainer.
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Take continuing-education courses. To remain certified as a sports trainer with the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers, take 75 hours of continuing education courses on topics related to sports injury treatment and therapy every three years. In addition, many states require continuing-education credits to renew your athletic training license.
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