What is Kinesiology?
Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement, performance and function and may also be referred to as 'human kinetics'. The practice of kinesiology applies the science of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and neuroscience to human movement and function. Kinesiology employs evidence based scientific research and assessment to assist in the prevention and rehabilitation of injury, lifestyle diseases and other physiological conditions, along with the enhancement of human performance, in environments such as work and sport.
Kinesiology is important to your health
Who are Kinesiologists?
Kinesiologists (also referred to as "kinesiotherapists" or "kinesiologues" in other regions of Canada and Quebec) are "human movement specialists". Statistics Canada defines Kinesiologists and related professions under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011 defines kinesiologists and related professions (Category 3144).
Kinesiologists provide unique and valuable services contributing to your health care and treatment.
We can work closely with you to:
- prevent and treat illness or injury through appropriate exercise testing, assessement and prescription;
- improve your physical performance in sport, work and activities of daily living;
- oversee or assist with the implementation of your individual health care plan;
- assess workplace demands and provide workplace design services (ergonomics) to help prevent and/or recovery from injury; and
- provide support in rehabilitation and wellness management.
Kinesiologists work as part of interdisciplinary teams to ensure you receive integrated best-practices care for safe and effective treatment and independently in the community depending on your needs.
Many Kinesiologists are community based, providing quality service when and where it is needed and can help 'bridge' the gap between clinic/facility based treatment and the home or independent community environments. This role has been shown to enhance your ability to return to regular home, work and leisure activities sooner and more effectively.
For more information on the Kinesiologists areas of practice, please see How Kinesiologists Serve the Public.