Guide to Health Careers

Kinesiologist

from: http://www.communityhealthcareers.com/careers_kinesiologist.htm

Kinesiologists thoroughly understand the science of human movement and work to improve the efficiency and performance of the human body at work, in sports and in daily life. Whether working with athletes, the physically challenged, or victims of physical injury, kinesiologists use their knowledge of science and anatomy to help train bodies for recovery and/or optimum performance.

The Cool Things They Do:

Work with athletes to improve their fitness and performance levels
Assess client fitness levels and develop appropriate physical activity programs
Develop rehabilitation programs for people who have movement disorders
Visit and consult with workplaces to recommend practices to reduce injury and to increase worker productivity
Design fitness and mobility programs for reducing accidents among the elderly
Design athletic equipment or help in sport management and promotion

Working Conditions:

Kinesiologists work indoors and outdoors and in a wide variety of environments. Their work requires them to be in good physical condition to be able to demonstrate exercises and lift and maneuver clients. Kinesiologists employed in laboratory research and ergonomic design usually work long hours in front of the computer.

Most Kinesiologists Work In:

Chronic care facilities
Institutions for the physically challenged
Hospitals
Rehabilitation clinics
Sports and fitness centres
Professional and amateur sport
Self-employed kinesiologists may work on a contract basis for several employers at the same time

Personal Characteristics/Skills:

Patience and flexibility
Strong oral and written communication skills
Ability to keep up-to-date on the latest scientific research and technology
Teamwork skills
Analytic capabilities combined with problem-solving skills

Education and Training Required:

University Degree in Kinesiology, Human Kinetics, or other health-science-related field or Master’s Degree in Physical Education

Length of Study/Training : 4-7 years post-secondary

Helpful High School Courses:

English
Sciences
Business
Math

Employment Prospects -GOOD

The demand for kinesiologists is related to the aging population and increased attention to the needs of disabled persons and accident victims. Opportunities will be better in private practices outside of the institutional health care setting.

Earnings:

Average annual income for beginning kinesiologists: $25,000 to $35,000. After several years of experience they can earn more than $50,000 a year. Self-employed consultants can earn up to $100,000 annually .

More Information:

Canadian Kinesiology Alliance
http://www.cka.ca

Ontario Kinesiology Association
http://www.oka.on.ca

Kinesiology.Net
http://www.kinesiology.net

American Kinesiotherapy Association (US)
http://www.akta.org

Job Futures:

Policy and Program Officers, Researchers and Consultants
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/416.shtml