If your child is training more than twice a week in one sport, you'll eventually hit an injury conversation. Knowing who does what saves time, money and unnecessary panic.
Sports physio
A qualified physiotherapist with sports specialism — HCPC-registered in the UK. They assess, diagnose and rehab injuries. If there's pain, start here.
Sports therapist
A different qualification track (BSc Sports Therapy), often working alongside physios. Strong on soft-tissue treatment and pitch-side care. Not a substitute for medical diagnosis of a bad injury.
Strength & conditioning (S&C) coach
Not medical staff. Their job is to make athletes more robust — improving strength, speed, mobility and general durability so injuries are less likely in the first place. Look for UKSCA-accredited coaches for youth work.
How to use them alongside 1-to-1 coaching
- 1-to-1 sport coach handles technique and game-specific work
- S&C coach handles the strength and speed base
- Physio handles pain, injury and structured return-to-play
A good 1-to-1 coach knows when to say 'that's a physio conversation' rather than pushing through pain.