Athlete trainers work closely with athletes and help by preventing and treating injuries. They also closely work with physicians to coordinate treatment plans. An athlete trainer also works with the athlete during the rehabilitation. As a trainer, you have to travel with your team or athlete on a regular basis. To be a successful trainer, you need to have the following five qualities.
Good Communication Skills
These skills are important for all professionals. When you are working with athletes, these skills are especially important. You are going to find yourself in different settings working with athletes coming from different backgrounds. You should be able to interact with any type of person. Good communication skills are required to build a rapport with athletes. It takes good relationships to get athletes through treatments and rehabilitation. Good relationships cannot be developed without proper communication. You have to communicate clear medical details. The injured athlete may not be able to understand what is happening to his body.
It is your job to explain injury and rehab details. The athlete should understand the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery properly.
Honest and Trustworthy
These are the two desirable characteristics athletes want in their trainers. Athletes are sharing their health-related information with their trainers. Their medical information is confidential information. You have to hold both ethical and legal standards. You cannot violate these standards as there are legal consequences. While you can get athlete trainer insurance to cover these costs. However, you have to be an honest and trustworthy person. It also helps in building trusting relationships. The athlete wants to feel comfortable around you.
Decision Making Skills
As you are always there for the athlete, you are the first person who will respond to emergency situations. You are going to make decisions that can make a big difference. Your decision has to be safe for the athlete. Shall he return to the game? Shall he take rest? Think about the short-term and long-term health of the athlete. Gather all the information and make a decision that is in his best interests. Use your training and experience to respond and have confidence in your decision.
Compassion
An injury cannot only end his season but career as well. Your role is going to be significant when the athlete is out of action due to injury. You need to be empathetic. You know that recovery is not easy. Give your support. Show compassion. Always remain optimistic. This will help the athlete to get through a long recovery. Encourage the athlete to stay positive.
Preparedness For Anything
Always be prepared. It is important for you to be proactive. An injury can occur anytime during practice sessions or games. Always be prepared to respond and treat injury. You should have an emergency plan to make sure the medical team can provide medical assistance on time in case the injury or illness is serious.
Your preparedness should not be about injuries only. Keep an eye on the athlete in extreme weather conditions. Look for the signs of dehydration if the athlete is playing in warm and humid conditions.
It is not easy to be an athlete trainer. Your right decisions can help an athlete in achieving the pinnacle of his abilities. And, your wrong decision can even keep him out of action. You can protect your interests with athlete trainer insurance. This is about the athlete’s interests.
