This paper is aimed at examining the similarities and distinctions between the professionals representing fields that are closely related to one another. In particular, one should discuss the work of personal trainers, athletic trainers, and physical therapists. At first, it is important to examine the activities of personal trainers who design a set of fitness exercises for separate clients.
In the beginning, they are obliged to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of these individuals. This task is important when one has to work with people who tried to maintained physical fitness without relying on the help of others. Moreover, these trainers should develop a proper diet for their clients. In many cases, they work with people who struggle with obesity (Crossley 70).
Finally, such coaches can provide various guidelines for the independent practice. Overall, this cooperation can be very productive because a trainer can better evaluate the needs of a person. This goal cannot always be achieved if one has to work with a large group of people.
Additionally, it is necessary to discuss the work of athletic trainers. These professionals can also work with individual clients. They can perform the functions of personal trainers. However, these people should have many competencies and qualifications. In particular, these people need to apply for a license. For instance, they need to do it in some parts of the United States such as Minnesota or Colorado. Moreover, they should knowledgeable about the injuries that athletes can sustain (Starkey 559).
This knowledge is essential for preventing such traumas. This goal is one of the top priorities for athletic trainers because very often the injury of a professional athlete can be very costly. Additionally, they should be able to give the first medical assistance to people. These trainers can also implement rehabilitation programs. So, they can act as medical workers. The primary distinction is that these professionals have a broader range of competencies. Athletic trainers can work in various organizations such as football clubs, schools, universities, hospitals, and so forth.
Finally, one should examine the work of physical therapists. These professionals do not necessarily develop a diet for people. Nevertheless, they are more skilled in diagnosing, and they can accurately determine which part of the musculoskeletal system was injured. They should be versed in several areas that are closely related to fitness. For example, one can mention neurology and orthopedics (Dutton 17). These professionals do not necessarily work only with athletes (Dutton 17). They can rehabilitate various people who suffered very severe traumas. Moreover, they assist those individuals who underwent some surgery (Dutton 20). These tasks cannot be performed by personal and athletic trainers. It is one of the distinctions that should be taken into account. Moreover, one should keep in mind that a physical therapist should have at least a graduate degree. Overall, while comparing these professionals, one should focus on the skills that they are expected to have. Additionally, much attention should be paid to the qualifications that they are supposed to gain.
Works Cited
Crossley, James. Personal Training: Theory and Practice, New York: Routledge, 2014. Print.
Dutton, Mark. Physical Therapist Assistant Exam Review Guide, New York: Jones & Bartlett Publishers, 2011. Print.
Starkey, Chad. Athletic Training and Sports Medicine: An Integrated Approach, New York, Jones & Bartlett Publishers, 2011. Print.