When it comes to typical work schedules, athletic trainers, simply put, run the gamut. Some of them work standard office hours, similarly to most office employees. Others, on the other hand, have decidedly more erratic schedules. Work schedules for athletic trainers generally depend on their specific place or places of employment.

Work Locations

The expertise of athletic trainers revolves around ensuring the health and proper functioning of peoples' bones and muscles. They're seen in many diverse work environments, from high schools and universities to medical clinics and community recreation centers. Many athletic trainers work directly alongside people who have jobs that involve a lot of physical activity, whether professional modern dancers or professional players in a variety of sports. Athletic trainers who do this generally have schedules that accommodate those of their busy clients. These schedules aren't usually as consistent as those of athletic trainers in hospitals, clinics and educational institutions.

Athletic Trainers Outside of Sports

Athletic trainers who have employment outside of the sports world usually have traditional work schedules. Athletic trainers in schools, community centers, clinics and hospitals, for example, often are busy for anywhere between 40 and 50 hours weekly. Like workers with more standard schedules, they're usually off duty on evenings, Saturdays and Sundays.

Athletic Trainers in Sports

Schedule-wise, it's a whole other ball game for athletic trainers who are hired specifically to look after the health needs of athletes on sports teams and dance troupes. Their typical work schedules aren't always so typical. They show up when necessary, whether to watch over practice sessions or to handle emergency injuries. It's also highly common for these athletic trainers' schedules to switch on a dime. If practice is delayed for whatever reason, it affects their schedules. Weekend and night duties are common for these athletic trainers. Athletic trainers in sports frequently work lengthier days than others in their field. When their teams are in the middle of their seasons, they often work for a minimum of between 50 and 60 weekly hours. Athletic trainers for teams sometimes work for as many as 12 hours daily, too. Outside of their seasons, their workload often drops to between 40 and 50 hours, although this always varies.

Extra Work

While athletic trainers who are employees for health centers frequently work traditional hours, it isn't uncommon for them to seek extra employment, adding to their schedules. Many athletic trainers take on extra work giving speeches at educational institutions or assisting individuals in training. Schedules for this type of outside work always are flexible, as well.