Kinesiologists

Kinesiologists, also known as kinesiotherapists, are health care workers who plan and conduct exercise programs to help their clients develop or maintain endurance, strength, mobility, and coordination. Many of their clients have disabilities. They also work with people who are recovering from injuries or illnesses and need help to keep their muscle tone during long periods of inactivity. According to the American Kinesiotherapy Association, kinesiologists provide such services as therapeutic exercise, ambulation training, geriatric rehabilitation, aquatic therapy, adapted fitness and conditioning, prosthetic/orthotic rehabilitation, psychiatric rehabilitation, driver training, adapted exercise for the home setting, fall prevention and recovery, evaluation of home/facility accessibility, and employee wellness. 

Kinesiology is based on the belief that each muscle in the body relates to a specific meridian—or energy path-way—in the body. These meridians also relate to organs, allowing the muscles to give us information about organ function and energy. The profession builds on basic principles from Chinese medicine, acupressure, and massage therapy to bring the body into balance. The goal is to release physical and mental pain, and alleviate tension in the mind and body. Relieving stress—be it physical, mental, emotional, chemical, environmental, or behavioral—is a main element of kinesiology. Various techniques are combined with visualization, massage, and movement exercises to help patients heal.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000

Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree

Certification/License

Recommended

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average

Personality Traits

Helpful

Realistic

Social

Career Ladder

Kinesiology Consultant or College Professor

Kinesiologist, Supervisor

Kinesiologist

Staff Kinesiologist