Human Movement Specialists
Kinesiologists provide services through the application of the science of human movement and deliver quality solutions through prevention, objective functional assessment, and evidence-based intervention.
Typical workplace settings include: clinics; public and private rehabilitation centres; health authorities; large employers including utilities, manufacturing companies, industry, construction, crown corporations, and others.
Utilizing the knowledge and training in, biomechanics, anatomy, physiology and motor learning & control, Kinesiologists specialize in active rehabilitation, injury prevention, performance enhancement, health and function through tailored physical activity and exercise prescription.
Fitness and Health Promotion
Many Kinesiologists work in the area of fitness which includes both physical and mental fitness. Exercise and education are tools for the professionals who work with their clients to improve both aspects of human health. Jobs in this sector focus on employee wellness and can be found in medium to large organizations, such as industrial labour organizations, manufacturing, private companies, all levels of government, crown corporations and related agencies.
Physical Rehabilitation
Assessing and treating injuries include client education and active exercise therapy. WorkSafeBC, ICBC, and other large organizations and employers support active rehabilitation programs that help injured persons return-to-work and return to pre-injury activities.
Kinesiologists are often integral members of healthcare teams who develop and progress exercise therapy programs.
Ergonomics and Human Factors
Kinesiologists can provide support in analyzing employees in their work environments – and the workplace itself. Looking at work spaces, practices, tools, and the work itself can improve worker safety and productivity. Kinesiologists with ergonomics training are able to take a ‘whole body’ systems approach to studying workplace challenges and reducing or eliminating repetitive strain or over-use injuries; they can also help to design workspaces and process improvements to prevent injury.
Research
Kinesiologists can also continue beyond their undergraduate degrees, to earn a Master’s or Doctoral degree in a related field. Kinesiologists also contribute to research and development in a number of human movement specialty areas.
The Role of Kinesiologists
In Canada, the Canadian Council of University Physical Education and Kinesiology Administrators or "CCUPEKA", has been accrediting University and College Kinesiology programs for content and instruction for the past 40 years. CCUPEKA's position statement: The Role of Kinesiologists and the Promotion of Physical Activity and Exercise in the Canadian Health Care System provides an excellent overview of the role of kinesiology professionals in society.
For those interested in pursuing a post-secondary education in kinesiology, please check out the universities and colleges which provide 4-year undergraduate degrees in BC.
We also recommend you refer to the list of BC Kinesiology Undergraduate degree programs approved for Practicing membership with the BCAK.
Graduation from other 4-year bachelor's degree programs in kinesiology does not exclude you from membership, however you must meet the BCAK's requirements for membership. This entails a full course by course review to ensure you meet in full, the core and elective course requirements. Full details can be found on the Applying for membership page.
In the United States, the American Kinesiology Association has developed presentations on the value of obtaining a kinesiology education and kinesiologists' impact on society. These are valuable resources for students considering a career in kinesiology or as a pathway to a related healthcare profession. Kinesiology and Public Health: How did we get here (YouTube Video)