Is “Athletic Trainer” the same as “Trainer” in Japan? Analysis of demographics and practice patterns

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine if there are differences in demographics and practice patterns between those who identify themselves as “Athletic Trainer (AT)” and “Trainer (TR)” among athletic training certification holders (Japan Sport Association Certified Athletic Trainer and/or Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer). Of the twelve athletic training related tasks investigated in this study, AT was more likely to perform tasks in prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, athletic rehabilitation, conditioning, safety management, and communication. Also, AT practiced a greater total average number of tasks than TR (median difference, 1). However, no statistical difference was observed in the odds of practicing all twelve tasks between AT and TR.