Many of you have probably heard the term “kinesiology” thrown around, whether it be in the sports or rehabilitation fields but you may be wondering what exactly it is and how you can benefit from this. By definition, Kinesiology is the scientific study of the human body in movement. The focus of this scientific study is to analyze the ways in which the body moves and functions. In order to graduate from a kinesiology program, you are required to have foundational knowledge in the study of physiology, anatomy, ergonomics, psychomotor behaviour, biomechanics and social and cultural factors. Kinesiology uses the most recent evidence-based medicine principles to enhance and preserve human movements in a wide variety of populations and settings. Kinesiology uses exercise as a tool for managing chronic disease and injury.
What are the requirements for becoming a Registered Kinesiologist?
To become a Registered Kinesiologist you must have completed a four or five-year kinesiology, physical education or human kinetics degree. If you are planning to practice in Canada, you must then pass a jurisprudence and entry to practice examination with the College of Kinesiologists. Upon successful completion of these requirements, a Kinesiologist must purchase and provide proof of professional liability insurance.
The role of a Registered Kinesiologist
Registered Kinesiologists are human movement specialists who strive to understand human movement. Using a multidisciplinary approach to human performance and movements, Registered Kinesiologists take into consideration the factors which limit and enhance one’s capacity to move.
Who can benefit from a Registered Kinesiologist?
The work of a Registered Kinesiologist can benefit all those who move.
- People preparing for or recovering from surgery.
- People suffering from an injury or disease.
- High-performance athletes.
- Anyone wanting to improve their overall physical health.
What can Kinesiology do for you?
- As life expectancy continues to increase, Kinesiology plays a crucial role in allowing those in their later years to maintain their independent lifestyle through maximizing health, preventing injury and disease and enhancing their quality of life.
- A Kinesiologist can develop an individualized regime to ensure you are performing at an optimum level- whether it is in your home, at your job or on the playing field.
- Involving a Kinesiologist leads to accelerated recovery, a decrease in pain, healthier daily living and healthier, safer workplaces; which in turn leads to improved work, as well as enhanced mental and sports performance.
Are Registered Kinesiologists represented by a Professional Association?
It is a very exciting time for the profession of Kinesiology; as of April 1, 2013, the Province of Ontario allowed Kinesiologists to became licensed to practice as regulated health professionals. The College of Kinesiologists of Ontario is the body responsible for the licensing of individual Kinesiologists in the province.
- The College of Kinesiologists of Ontario ensures standards of practise are adhered to and provides recourse for the general public in the occurrence that a complaint is filed against a licensed Kinesiologist.
- The Ontario Kinesiology Association (OKA) is the professional association that advocates for the profession of kinesiology as an integral part of Ontario’s healthcare team.
- Additionally, Registered Kinesiologists are bound and insured with extensive errors and omissions two million dollar liability coverage. Depending upon the nature of their professional endeavours, some professionals choose to increase their type and level of insurance coverage.
- If you would like to learn more, the OKA and the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario websites are excellent resources.