A kinesiologist is a professional who focuses on the study of human movement. The field of kinesiology is sometimes referred to as biomechanics, referring to the fact that it focuses heavily on the mechanical aspects of human movement, such as the musculoskeletal system and how it functions. This field looks at the body as an interconnected system and investigates how people move to see how they injure themselves, build strong bodies, and engage in dance, play, and other forms of movement.
People who work in this field can use their education in a variety of ways. Some kinesiologists work on creating environments and furniture that work with the human body to encourage healthy movement. For example, a kinesiologist might consult on the design of a workplace, workout equipment, or furniture to ensure that people are not injured. Kinesiologists can also collaborate with physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists to help people recover from injuries and surgery by developing an exercise program and assisting the patient in retraining his or her body to cope with the injury.
One of the most important aspects of this field is assisting people in learning how to move properly. A kinesiologist can show someone how to work with the body rather than against it, and how to use the body as a tool to help them accomplish various tasks. Kinesiologists show their clients proper stretching and bending techniques, as well as proper heavy lifting technique and other types of movements, in order to reduce the risk of injury and strain.
Some kinesiologists work in the field of applied kinesiology, which involves using human kinetics to treat a variety of medical conditions. Some people are skeptical of this field of alternative medicine, which combines chiropractic, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and several other fields of alternative medicine. Many systemic problems, according to practitioners of applied kinesiology, can be addressed by making adjustments to the body and retraining people to move safely and properly. This field can also be used to prevent disease.
A four-year degree in human kinetics is required to practice as a kinesiologist. Anatomy and physiology courses are included in the program, with a focus on the musculoskeletal system. Working as a kinesiologist in a public health initiative to reduce the risk of injury in a community, for example, pays better than working as a physical therapist and rehabilitation specialist.