PT’s and ATC’s

In regard to my post on Tracy Fobers post on physical therapists I got the following response: “Would love to hear more about your experience at GLATA, and your thoughts/opinions of this based on your interaction with both athletic trainers and physical therapists.” The program for the GLATA Convention was impressive. Looking at the program you would have say that the profession of athletic training has come a long way. They certainly have professionalized themselves over the years. Up to a point I think the field of “Strength & Conditioning” could learn some things from the athletic trainers and their governing body the NATA. That being said I think over the past couple of years the trainers are going down a one way street in the wrong direction. They are trying to be what they are not, and probably not intended to be. They are not Physical therapists. As I understand it their job is to provide primary care in athletic and clinical setting. I understand that in many situations because of need they must condition and rehab the athlete but that is not their primary job. I have the utmost respect for trainers and the role they have played in keeping athlete’s healthy and performing. Sometimes it is too easy to get caught up in trying to be something that we do not need to be. I know I am oversimplifying this issue, but that is my point of view as a coach and one who has hired ATC’s and been in charge of them in a professional setting. It is my understanding the hours in the training that were once a requirement have been modified, that is a shame if that is true. I always felt that the practical experience in the training room gave the beginning trainer an advantage coming out of school. That is unlike the Strength & Conditioning coach that only has to pass a paper and pencil test. I hope the old guard in the training profession will step and be the voice of reason on all of this.