KINESIOLOGY

Careers in the Field

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human or non-human body movement. Kinesiology addresses physiological, biomechanical, and psychological dynamic principles and mechanisms of movement. Applications of kinesiology to human health include biomechanics and orthopedics, strength and conditioning, sports psychology, rehabilitation methods, such as physical and occupational therapy, and sports and exercise. Studies of human and animal motion include measures from motion tracking systems, electrophysiology of muscle and brain activity, various methods for monitoring physiological function, and other behavioral and cognitive research techniques.

The word comes from the Greek κίνησις kínēsis, "movement" (itself from κινεῖν kineîn, "to move"), and -λογία -logia, "study."

Kinesiology is the study of human and nonhuman animal-body movements, performance, and function by applying the sciences of biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and neuroscience. Applications of kinesiology in human-health include physical education teacher, rehabilitation, health and safety, health promotion, workplaces, sport and exercise industries. A bachelor's degree in kinesiology can provide strong preparation for graduate study in biomedical research, as well as in professional programs, such as medicine.

Individuals with training in this area can teach physical education, provide consulting services, conduct research and develop policies related to rehabilitation, human motor performance, ergonomics, and occupational health and safety. In North America, kinesiologists may study to earn a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, or Doctorate of Philosophy degree in Kinesiology or a Bachelor of Kinesiology degree.

Possible Careers:

Athletes and Sports Competitors

Athletic Trainers

Chiropractors

Coaches and Scouts

Postsecondary Teachers

Exercise Physiologists

Fitness Trainers and Instructors

Aerobics Instructor, Fitness Coordinator, Fitness Director, Fitness Instructor, Fitness Specialist, Fitness Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, Group Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer, Yoga Instructor