Characteristics to Be a Good Athletic Trainer

Athletic trainers are recognized by the American Medical Association as health professional colleagues. Their job is to treat and help prevent injury to athletes. They work with athletes, coaches, doctors and other athletic administrators. A lot of the athletic trainer's work involves educating athletes so they stay healthy. When an injury occurs, it's up to the athletic trainer to make a sound decision regarding the athlete and whether he can continue play.

  1. Modeling

    • An athletic trainer needs to communicate on a regular basis. According to a report published in the 2001 Journal of Athletic Training, athletes prefer a trainer who models proficient behavior. An athletic trainer needs to show her clients and colleagues she can adapt to circumstances, display good communication skills and make quick decisions that work best for everyone. He also needs excellent organizational skills to present his educational materials.

    Honesty

    • Athletic trainers need to display honesty.

      The spring 2009 issue of The Sport Journal published a survey revealing qualities athletic trainer clients desire. The highest-ranking answers involved having an athletic trainer who is honest, trustworthy and has a high ethical standard. An athletic trainer is responsible for reporting accurate information to athletes, coaches and administrators regarding athlete injuries. She must present the best information to athletes for injury prevention. Although the pressure to win creates stress for the athletic trainer, it is expected that he will deliver communications with impeccable standards.

    Dependable

    • An athletic trainer reports to various groups within the sport. He needs to organize clinics to present injury prevention information to athletes. Failure to plan and execute ongoing meetings with athletes puts the athlete at risk. Administrators require consistent communications with the athletic trainer and demand the trainer be accessible and on time. She also meets with medical professionals at least once a week. It's imperative he be on time and attend all medical meetings.