What is Kinesiology?
What is Kinesiology?
Kinesiology, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is the study of the principles of mechanics and anatomy in relation to human movement.
History of Kinesiology
-Kinesiology was originally developed by Dr George Goodheart DC., a second generation chiropractor, in the early 1960’s.
-He discovered the relationship between Chinese meridians (used by practitioners of Chinese medicine including acupuncturists) and muscle groups, organs, and glands in the body.
-By testing the resistance of a muscle when a small amount of pressure is applied to it, weaknesses and imbalances in its corresponding meridian could be distinguished.
-The technique was developed into the system of Kinesiology known as Applied Kinesiology that was used mostly by medical related practitioners such as dentists and chiropractors.
Sub-disciplines
Biomechanics- the study of the mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms.
Nutrition- the science that interprets the interaction of nutrients and other substances in food in relation to maintenance, growth, reproduction, health and disease of an organism.
Psychology- the scientific study of the mind and behavior.
Careers in the field
Athletic Trainer- often works alongside athletes within educational settings to help prevent athletes from encountering injury and related medical conditions during sports and physical activity
Recreational Therapist- helps to plan excercise and movement-based therapy programs for people with disabilities, injuries or illnesses.
Excerise Physiologist- develops fitness plans that helps patients recover from chronic diseases.