A kinesiologist is an allied health professional. Kinesiologists use exercise and movement to help prevent injury, support rehabilitation and improve your health and wellness. They look at how the body's systems work together: the muscles and joints, the nerves, and the way your body makes and uses energy.
Some services a kinesiologist (or "kin") may offer include fitness testing, exercise therapy, strength and conditioning, rehab and general sport fitness.
The British Columbia Association of Kinesiologists (BCAK) defines kinesiology as "the scientific study of human movement".
Where the Word Comes From
The word kinesiology comes from the Greek word kinesis, which means "to move". An "-ology" is the study of a subject. People have studied human movement for hundreds of years!
Who Can a Kinesiologist Help?
A kinesiologist can work with a wide range of health needs, such as:
- Muscle, bone and joint injuries and conditions
- General exercise and wellness
- Chronic pain
- Recovery after a car crash (ICBC)
- Heart and lung health and recovery
- Metabolic health, including weight management
- Nerve and brain conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis (MS) and brain injury
To study kinesiology, students learn how the body is built and how it works. They study the science of movement, the role of the mind and social life, and the brain and nerves. Then they learn how all of this shapes the way we move in daily life.
Kinesiologists in BC
More and more, kinesiologists are seen as a key part of the health care team. They can work on their own, and they also work with other health professionals, such as physiotherapists and family doctors.
In BC, kinesiology is not yet a regulated health profession. Many kinesiologists in BC are members of BCAK. BCAK sets education and insurance requirements for its members.
A kinesiologist uses their own clinical judgment to do their work well and with integrity, within their scope of practice. Our team includes kinesiologists who work alongside our physiotherapists, in your home.
Curious what working with a kinesiologist and a physiotherapist together can look like? You can read more on our programs page.