Kinesiology Video: Career Options for a Degree in Kinesiology

Introduction

Kinesiology is the study of human movement and how movement and exercise contribute toward healing. Kinesiologists use muscle feedback and body awareness to reduce stress and pain. Kinesiology is based on the premise that the body contains innate healing properties that can be better accessed through certain manipulations. A practice called muscle testing or muscle monitoring is used to recognize chemical, structural or emotional imbalances in the body. The blockages of energy flow these imbalances are treated with massage, light touch, mild corrections and exercise. Kinesiology is not meant to treat or diagnose disease but can be used in rehabilitation and in the possible prevention of disease.

Job Skills and Duties

Once blockages in the body are identified, kinesiologists come up with a plan to help the patient eliminate discomfort and promote good health. The plan will use energy balancing to deal with stress factors, such as a nutrition, pain, emotional dysfunction or a lack of mental and physical coordination. Physical movement and corrections are used to achieve this balance. Practitioners in the field are taught to tap into energies other forms of medicine may overlook. They develop the skills to look beyond symptoms and to 'listen' to what a body is trying to tell them. Kinesiologists also do more than just deal with ailments. They devise programs that help patients maintain balance and health.

Training Required

Prospective students interested in this field can earn a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science before moving on to a master's degree program. Degree programs focus on anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biophysics, biomechanics, motor behavior and exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation.

Well Known Jobs Within this Field of Expertise

Jobs in which kinesiology can be utilized are numerous. People in this field often work as athletic trainers, college coaches, fitness instructors, personal trainers, sports directors, strength and conditioning coaches and recreational therapists. Kinesiology practitioners are involved in health promotion, rehabilitation, ergonomics, disability management, health and safety, and health research.

Conclusion

The field of kinesiology is approximately 50 years old and still relatively new. As often happens with new procedures, many health practitioners have only recently recognized it as legitimate. Its recognition as a viable health science does however continue to grow as the health industry focuses more on maintaing good health through exercise and proper body movements.

Sources

http://www.icpkp.com/Section?Action=View&Section_id=64&Story_id=1221

http://www.americankinesiology.org