Kinesiology

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human or non-human body movement. It addresses physiological, biomechanical, and psychological dynamic principles and mechanisms of movement. Kinesiology as a field of study can involve specialties such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, and sport psychology.

A student performing a kinesiology study

Kinesiology tap

History

Kinesiology has roots in the ancient cultures of China, Greece, and Rome, but it was only recognized as a separate field of study in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Branches of Kinesiology

Kinesiology encompasses various disciplines, each focusing on different aspects of human movement:

• Biomechanics: Studies the mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms.
• Exercise Physiology: Examines the physiological responses to physical activity and exercise.
• Motor Control: Explores how the nervous system controls the muscular system to produce movement.
• Sport Psychology: Focuses on the mental aspects of sports and exercise, including motivation and performance anxiety.

Applications

Kinesiology has numerous applications in areas such as sports, fitness, rehabilitation, and the workplace. In a clinical setting, kinesiologists work in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training. In research, kinesiologists seek to understand the principles of human movement to improve health and performance.

Education and Career

Educational programs in kinesiology can range from bachelor's to doctoral degrees. Career paths for kinesiologists include athletic training, physical education, rehabilitation, and health and wellness coaching.

See Also

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Motor Control
• Sport Psychology

References

• Knudson, D. (2007). Fundamentals of Biomechanics. New York: Springer.
• McArdle, W. D., Katch, F. I., & Katch, V. L. (2010). Exercise Physiology: Nutrition, Energy, and Human Performance. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
• Shumway-Cook, A., & Woollacott, M. H. (2017). Motor Control: Translating Research into Clinical Practice. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.
• Weinberg, R. S., & Gould, D. (2014). Foundations of Sport and Exercise Psychology. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.