What is a Kinesiologist?

Kinesiology involves studying physical activity and its impact on health, society, and quality of life. In essence, it's the science of human movement. Kinesiologists are human movement specialists who provide services to the public by applying the sciences of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and psychomotor behavior. Kinesiologists study the principles of movement management, injury prevention, exercise improvement, and general wellness. Much of this is related to sports science. 

Generally speaking, to become a kinesiologist, you will need a degree in kinesiology or a related field. However, in the United States and most countries, a kinesiologist is not a licensed or professional designation. Kinesiology degree programs will offer additional focus on health science, exercise science, general medicine, physical education, or similar fields.

The Kinesiology Industry

Therapy

Kinesiologists generally continue their education to become physical therapists. Kinesiology therapists use active rehabilitation, which involves therapeutic exercises and range-of-motion techniques, to help soothe or lessen the effects of injuries through exercise programs.

Education

A Kinesiology teacher who wants to work as a university or community college professor will need to pursue higher education and earn a master's or doctorate degree. Kinesiologists can also teach physical education to improve physical fitness at the high school or middle school level but often don't need graduate-level education to do so. 

Research

Kinesiologists can also become research experts. Their research can explore and confirm new studies and techniques. Like a professor of Kinesiology, pursue either a master's or a doctorate degree. They will study and write about pursuits and accomplishments in their field. They also conduct case studies by researching physically active people, such as physical instructors, trainers, or athletes.

Related:

What is a Chiropractor?

What is a Physiologist?

Occupational Therapy

Physical Therapy

Manual Muscle Testing