A kinesiologist helps people make physical activity choices that will help them lead a healthy life. A kinesiologist studies the science of human movement and how it can be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle. Kinesiologists give advice on which activities are best suited to help a person reach their health and fitness goals.
Duties of a Kinesiologist:
- Developing a fitness profile for clients and helping decide what their goals are.
- Developing fitness programs that suit the specific needs of clients.
- Link clients to the necessary resources to lead a healthy life.
- With physicians to design special programs for clients with various health concerns.
- Promote a healthy lifestyle to the general public.
Work Requirements:
Kinesiologist are involved with designing and implementing fitness routines for the general public and for those afflicted with various medical conditions. Part of their work involves being in an office setting where they can meet with clients and determine what their goals are and what their fitness plan should look like. The other part of work is spend in a gym or outdoor setting, helping the client perform their fitness plan.
Types of Work Environments:
-Hospitals
-Gyms
-Private Sector
-Self-employed
-Sports clinics
-Sports teams
Personality Requirements:
-Likes to help people.
-Excellent communication skills.
-Passionate about health and fitness.
-Well-organized individual.
-Confident in their knowledge.
Education: 4-6 years post-secondary
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Kinesiology or related field (Human Kinetics, Exercise Science, etc.)
Certification:
Provincial: Can become a member of the Ontario Kinesiology Association.
National: Can become a member of the Canadian Kinesiology Alliance.
Kinesiologists can also write the exam to become a member of the Canadian Society for Exercsie Physiology.
Courses taken in high school that will assist you in a career as a kinesiologist:
- Health
-Biology
-Chemistry
-Physics
-Anatomy
Job placement- after 4-6 years of post-secondary education you chances of finding a job are considered- Good
The demand for Kinesiologists is high and will continue to grow with an aging population looking to remain fit and healthy.
Wages:
Average annual income: $37,000 - $65,000 with higher salaries for those who have their Master's degree.
Links:
Ontario Kinesiology Association
Canadian Kinesiology Alliance
Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology
