How to Become a Kinesiologist: A Comprehensive Guide
What Is a Kinesiologist?
Kinesiology is the study of human movement and the biochemistry and physics of exercise and physical activity. In other words, a kinesiologist is a health professional that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries related to physical activity. Kinesiologists assess, design, implement, monitor, and evaluate movement interventions to optimize physical performance, health, and wellbeing. Kinesiologists also develop and implement bio-mechanical strategies to help people move more easily and efficiently so they can participate in physical activities that promote healthy lifestyles.
Core Duties of a Kinesiologist
On a daily basis, kinesiologists will: assist patients with physical and functional limitations; create, manage, and implement various therapies; analyze movements to identify bio-mechanical or posture-related imbalances; participate in clinical research and clinical trial research; develop and teach exercise programs; measure physical strength and ability and provide patient education; and provide guidance on proper nutrition.
Steps to Becoming a Kinesiologist
To become a kinesiologist, you must:
1. Earn an Undergraduate Degree
Before you can become a kinesiologist, you must first earn a post-secondary degree in kinesiology. You will need to complete courses in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, physical activity, and physical education. An undergraduate degree is generally required to qualify for a professional kinesiologist position.
2. Gain Kinesiology Certification
Once you have earned your undergraduate degree, you will need to complete a kinesiology certification program. A certification program for kinesiologists is offered by several organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). These organizations will oversee the quality of care and safety of those getting their kinesiology certification.
3. Attend Graduate School
If you are interested in a career in teaching or research, you will need to pursue a master of science in kinesiology. This graduate program can help you develop a deeper understanding of the different aspects of kinesiology and help you hone your skills as a professional.
4. Get License and Certification
Depending on the state in which you work, you may need to obtain a license to practice kinesiology. Additionally, you may need to be certified by a professional organization like the NSCA. Certification is typically done on a voluntary basis, although, some states may require clinical kinesiologists to possess a license.
Advancing in Your Career
Once you have achieved certification as a kinesiologist and have been working in the field for some time, it may be beneficial to pursue a graduate degree in a specialized topic in kinesiology. For instance, a master’s in exercise science or a doctorate in exercise physiology may help you enhance your professional career prospects. Additionally, you can complete additional certifications that are available from the NSCA and ACSM.
Preparing for the Future of Kinesiology
As technology advances, kinesiologists will have to embrace the changes it brings. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are already being used to assess patients movement and physiological functions to develop individualized exercise programs. AI and ML also have the potential to increase precision in diagnosing and predicting physical performance, optimize patient health, and streamline the physical therapy process.
For those interested in getting ahead of the curve in the field, it is important to become well-versed in AI and ML technologies and keep up with the developments in the field. Additionally, kinesiologists will have to learn how to effectively use and interpret data from various sources. In the near future, this data could help develop and provide more personalized treatments as well as empower kinesiologists to learn more about the body’s movement.
Conclusion
As a health professional, a kinesiologist has a range of duties and potential specialties. To become a kinesiologist, it is necessary to first earn an undergraduate degree in kinesiology, complete a professional certification program, and possibly attend graduate school. Kinesiologists will play a major role in the advancement of technology and will need to stay informed and up to date with the new developments to remain successful in their field.