Peter Horobin
What made you decide to be an Osteopath?
The superior contact time dedicated to manual therapy training during the course. I was aware that Osteopaths were often regarded as having the best manual therapy skills in sport and clinical settings so I decided to study Osteopathy over the other professions for this reason. I’ve since been able to broaden my knowledge in other fields (such as rehab) but having the Osteopathic foundation has been invaluable.
Why did you choose the ESO?
I was accepted on a few courses so I asked the advice of a local Osteopath who had a large practice. I was told that the ESO taught the broadest range of techniques and that it was easier to get a job as an ESO graduate on the other side. I also preferred the idea of studying in Kent. I strongly believe that it is the best Osteopathic college and I am very fortunate to continue to have ties with it.
What have you been up to since graduating?
A lot! I graduated from the ESO in 2010. A couple years after graduating, I went on to complete an MSc in Sports Medicine at UCL alongside part-time clinical work. Since then I have been very fortunate to work in a variety of sports settings. I spent two summers at Guards Polo Club working with a polo team and more recently at Lee Valley Athletics Centre where I worked with team GB sprinters. I’m now working full time at my own clinic, Acer House Practice, which opened in 2019. Throughout all of this I have kept close connections with the ESO. I thoroughly enjoy returning on occasion for a guest lecture or as a tutor in clinic.
What advice would you give to someone looking to specialise in sports osteopathy?
Get out there. Shadow lots of people – particularly from other professions – and apply for tournaments and events. Learn as much as you can about sports injury management and attend conferences and courses that interest you. For me, the best move I made was completing a Master’s degree in Sports Medicine but I have met plenty of experienced osteopaths who don’t think it’s necessary to complete an additional degree.
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If you’re a graduate of the ESO and would like to share your experience of practice life please email us at news@eso.ac.uk – we’d love to hear from you.