Kinesiology

• ANATOMY OR SYSTEM AFFECTED: Brain, cells, circulatory system, heart, lungs, muscles, musculoskeletal system, nervous system, psychic-emotional system, respiratory system, spine

DEFINITION: The applied science of human movement, which combines the general areas of anatomy (the study of structure) and physiology (the study of function)

Science and Profession

In 1989, the American Academy of Physical Education (renamed the National Academy of Kinesiology in 2010) endorsed the term kinesiology to describe the entire field traditionally known as physical education, which includes the following subdisciplines: exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sports nutrition, sports psychology, sports sociology, athletic training programs, pedagogy, adapted physical education, cardiac rehabilitation, and physical therapy. Kinesiology can be defined inclusively as a scientific discipline focusing on human movement.

Kinesiologists work across disciplines and in several different industries, including research, clinical environments, and the fitness industry. Exercise physiology describes the body’s muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory functioning during both short-term and long-term exercise. Research has focused on muscle fiber typing, oxygen uptake assessment, lactic acid metabolism, thermoregulation, body composition, and muscle hypertrophy. Biomechanics applies Isaac Newton’s laws of physics to improve the mechanical efficiency of muscle movement patterns; using high-speed video and computer analysis, flaws in joint and limb dynamics can be assessed and changed to optimize performance. Motor control and learning pinpoint the areas of the brain and spinal cord that are responsible for the acquisition and retention of motor skills. Understanding the neurological basis of reflex and voluntary muscle movements helps to refine teaching strategies and describe the mechanisms of fatigue.

Sports nutrition describes how the body stores, circulates, and converts nutrients for aerobic and anaerobic energy production through carbohydrate loading and other strategies. Sports psychology explores the workings of the mind before, during, and after exercise and competition. Sports sociology examines aspects such as cultural, ethnic, and gender differences; dynamics in small and large groups; and the role of sports in ethical and moral development. Athletic trainers work with sports physicians and surgeons to prevent and rehabilitate injuries caused by overuse, trauma, or disease. Physical therapists use clinical exercise therapy and other modalities in a variety of rehabilitation settings.

Allied health areas under the kinesiology umbrella include pedagogy (teaching progressions for movement skills), adapted physical education (activities for the physically and intellectually challenged), and cardiac rehabilitation (recovery stages for those disabled by heart disease). Professional organizations in the field of kinesiology include the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Physical Therapy Association, the National Athletic Trainers' Association, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance.

Bibliography

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McArdle, William, Frank I. Katch, and Victor L. Katch. Exercise Physiology: Energy, Nutrition, and Human Performance. 8th ed. Philadelphia: Wolters, 2015.

Oatis, Carol A. Kinesiology: The Mechanics and Pathomechanics of Human Movement. 3rd ed. Philadelphia: Wolters, 2016.

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Plowman, Sharon A., and Denise L. Smith. Exercise Physiology for Health, Fitness, and Performance. 4th ed. Philadelphia: Wolters, 2014.

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“What is Kinesiology? A Comprehensive Guide.” University of North Dakota, 14 Aug. 2024, und.edu/blog/what-is-kinesiology.html. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.