Final answer:
Sports physical therapists primarily study anatomy and physiology, which focuses on the structure and function of the body, crucial for understanding the biomechanics of movement during athletic activities. Their education also involves physics, biology, and chemistry. Hence, option (b) is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sports physical therapists incorporate knowledge from various scientific fields, but the primary one they study related to the biomechanics of how joints, muscles, and bones move during athletic activity is anatomy and physiology. This branch includes understanding the physical structure (anatomy) as well as the function (physiology) of the human body.
Knowledge of physics is also essential for understanding muscle contraction, energy release, and chemical reactions that occur within the body. Physical therapists often hold a master's degree or doctorate and are well-versed in the mechanics of body movements, specializing in sports injuries. They are also educated in related sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics, which provide the foundation for more applied courses such as kinesiology and nutrition.
Career Focus: Athletic Trainer - The role of the athletic trainer encompasses recognizing, evaluating, and caring for athletic injuries, with a background in science—including anatomy and physiology—being crucial for understanding and executing their responsibilities effectively.