Introduction
At AthleteNow, we are committed to connecting athletes and coaches with excellent professionals in the field of sports science, medicine and therapy. To maintain the highest standards, we have specific criteria for the disciplines and accrediting bodies we recognise. In this article, we’ll outline the disciplines we accommodate, the accrediting bodies you should look for, and the importance of regulated titles and healthcare councils.
Disciplines We Accommodate
We welcome practitioners in the following disciplines:
- Physiologists
- Strength and Conditioning Coaches
- Psychologists
- Nutritionists/Dieticians
- Performance Analysts
- Performance Lifestyle Coaches
- Executive Coaching
- Biomechanics
- Physiotherapy
- Sports Therapists
- Sports Ergonomists
These are the core support disciplines employed in a modern multi-disciplinary team at institutes of sport and professional teams
Note: We do not accommodate chiropractors at this time.
Accrediting Bodies to Look For
United Kingdom
- BASES (British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences): For physiologists, biomechanics, and performance analysts. SEPAR: A BASES route for psychologists.
- BPS (British Psychological Society): For psychologists.
- SENr (Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register): For nutritionists and dieticians.
- BDA (British Dietetic Association): For dieticians.
- UKSCA (UK Strength and Conditioning Association): For strength and conditioning coaches.
- HFES (Human Factors and Ergonomics Society): For ergonomists.
United States
- ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine): For physiologists and strength and conditioning coaches.
- CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists): For strength and conditioning coaches.
- APA (American Psychological Association): For psychologists.
South Africa
- HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa): For psychologists and physiotherapists.
Australia
- ESSA (Exercise and Sports Science Australia): For physiologists and exercise scientists.
- APS (Australian Psychological Society): For psychologists.
- SDA (Sports Dietitians Australia): For dieticians.
- HFESA (Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia): For ergonomists.
Global
- FEPSAC (European Federation of Sport Psychology): For psychologists.
- ESPEN (European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism): For nutritionists and dieticians.
- ILAM (International Life and Executive Coaching): For executive coaching.
- EMCC (European Mentoring and Coaching Council): For executive coaching.
- ISPAS (International Society of Sports Performance Analysis
- IEA (International Ergonomics Association): For ergonomists.
Note: This is not a comprehensive list, and there are other accrediting bodies in various countries that also maintain high standards. Get in touch if we should include one you feel need to be recognised.
Protected Titles and Regulation
Protected Titles
In some countries, titles like “Psychologist” and “Physiotherapist” are legally protected. For example:
- United Kingdom: “Chartered Psychologist” is protected by the BPS.
- United States: “Licensed Psychologist” is regulated by state boards.
- South Africa: “Registered Psychologist” is protected by the HPCSA.
Healthcare Council Regulation
Some disciplines are regulated by healthcare councils, such as the HCPC in the UK and HPCSA in South Africa. These councils ensure that practitioners meet national standards for their training, professional skills, behaviour, and health.
Practitioners ‘In Training’
At AthleteNow, we understand that excellence is a journey, and many practitioners are in the process of gaining the experience and credentials necessary for full accreditation or chartership. These ‘in training’ professionals are on a recognised path to meeting the rigorous standards set by accrediting bodies. While they may not yet hold the official title of a chartered or accredited practitioner, they are committed to achieving this level of professional recognition. Working with an ‘in training’ practitioner can offer athletes and coaches the opportunity to collaborate with a rising star in the field, someone who is up-to-date with the latest research and methodologies, even if they may lack extensive experience.
Understanding Accreditation and Chartership
The terms ‘accreditation’ and ‘chartership’ are often used interchangeably, but both signify a high level of professional recognition and expertise. In some disciplines and countries, other terms like ‘certification,’ ‘licensure,’ or ‘registration’ may also be used. Regardless of the terminology, these designations indicate that a practitioner has met stringent criteria set by a recognised accrediting body. This often includes a combination of educational qualifications, supervised practice, successful completion of examinations, and a commitment to ongoing professional development and ethical practice. By choosing a practitioner with such credentials, athletes and coaches can be assured of the quality and reliability of the services provided.
Why This Matters
For Athletes and Coaches
Choosing a practitioner with the right credentials ensures that you receive quality, evidence-based care. It also minimises the risks associated with poor or unethical practices, particularly in sensitive areas like mental health.
For Practitioners
Being accredited by recognised bodies not only enhances your credibility but also provides a framework for ethical and professional conduct.
Conclusion
At AthleteNow, we strive to uphold the highest standards in sports science by accommodating a range of disciplines and recognising various accrediting bodies worldwide. We believe this approach serves the best interests of both practitioners and athletes, elevating the field to new levels of excellence and integrity.