PTOI Encourages Standardization Of Sports Theoretic Profession In Indonesia

JAKARTA sports therapist professions are increasingly seen as important in supporting the development of athletes' achievements in Indonesia. The general chairman of the Jakarta Indonesian Sports Therapist Association (PTOI), Drs. Firmansyah emphasized that sports therapists are sports science-based professionals, not just massage services or traditional massage services.

He explained that sports therapists are directly involved in the athlete coaching process, from training to competition.

"A sports cap is part of a unified process towards achievement. From training to competition, we are the closest parties to maintain the condition of athletes," said Firmansyah, Sunday, November 30.

One of the main focuses of sports therapy is the recovery after intensive training and the prevention of injury. According to Firmansyah, sports injuries have special characteristics so that handling must be done through a scientific approach related to facilities, anatomy, and body movement mechanisms.

"To achieve maximum performance and remain protected, it takes treatment that understands anatomy and body facilities, especially related to injuries caused by sports activities," he said.

Firmansyah emphasized that sports therapy is different from traditional massage because it requires a background for sports undergraduate education or knowledge that understands the body structure and injury management techniques. On this scientific basis, sports therapists are able to analyze the exact cause of injury and provide measurable therapy.

As public awareness increases, the sports therapist profession is now increasingly in demand, both by sports students and practitioners who choose the non-training path. Sports therapy is also not only needed by athletes. People who are active in sports can also suffer injuries. Sports therapy can help their recovery," he said.

To strengthen professionalism, PTOI is preparing a standardization program through certification and tiered competency tests. The assessment will involve senior practitioners who have long been involved in sports therapy.

"The competency test is carried out in stages, from elementary to advanced levels. The goal is that this profession has clear standards and can be formally recognized," said Firmansyah.

PTOI hopes that increasing the capacity of sports therapists will also support the future of Indonesia's sports achievements. With increasingly fierce competition, the quality of recovery and health of athletes is a determining factor.

"We are here to take care of sports players so that they can achieve maximum achievements," he said.