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Writer's pictureRachel Deal

The Athletic Training Profession Risks Disappearing Without Innovation



The phrase "adapt or perish" is widely attributed to Charles Darwin, the scientist known for his contributions to the theory of evolution. It summarizes the central idea of his work on natural selection, which proposed that species must adapt to their environments to survive. The phrase has since been popularized and used in various contexts to emphasize the necessity of change and adaptation in the face of challenges.


Welcome to the current state of athletic training. The profession is at a crossroads and will continue to struggle to survive unless it adapts.



Athletic trainers often express dissatisfaction with the profession, citing issues such as inadequate compensation, long working hours, lack of respect, and limited career advancement opportunities.


As previously discussed, there is no shortage of qualified ATs. However, fewer ATs want to work in a traditional school setting due to a lack of respect, work-life balance, and salary. 


Progress has been hindered by:

  • a cycle of complaining without contributing to meaningful progress

  • lack of creative and innovative problem-solving

  • rejecting any new ideas that differ from traditional methods.




Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.


Athletic training has two options. The first is to continue with the current methods of athletic trainers providing care and athletes receiving care for athletic injuries, leading to growing insanity and limited access. Albert Einstein is famously quoted as defining insanity as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. The second option is to adopt current trends in other healthcare fields and embrace innovation.


WaveOn is determined to advance the future of athletic training by valuing the well-being of both athletes and ATs.


WaveOn is providing athletic trainers a platform to continue their careers as "traditional" athletic trainers, treating athletes and their athletic injuries but also giving them the autonomy to create their own schedules without throttling their compensation. No more trading hours for pay.


Athletic trainers will gain better job satisfaction, an improved work-life balance with increased time for other career ambitions or outside interests, and retention of excellent athletic trainers in the profession rather than running off for better employment opportunities.


Athletes now have access to athletic trainers for athletic injury management, which was previously limited to youth teams or high-paying professional sports teams. Older athletes can now access athletic trainers, avoiding the healthcare system. Additionally, athletes of all ages can access an athletic trainer regardless of their location, ensuring that those in rural or lower socio-economic areas are not left without support.


The future of athletic training hinges on its ability to adapt and innovate. By embracing new approaches and prioritizing the well-being of both athletes and athletic trainers, the profession can overcome its current challenges. WaveOn's initiative exemplifies this forward-thinking mindset, providing a sustainable solution that benefits trainers and athletes alike. Through such progressive measures, athletic training can thrive, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all, regardless of location or socio-economic status.


The time for change is now, and with the right steps, the profession can secure a prosperous and impactful future.


Learn more about WaveOn Health.




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