For all the common and generic degrees out there, there has to be a cluster of degrees and disciplines not known to many, but of similar magnitude and importance as the known ones. People tend to do their research when going to study abroad, but often many of us get stuck choosing between the same degrees that one could say are “mass consumed”. We’d like to talk about a particular field that many of you might not have heard of by its exact moniker, but are already aware of its existence in some shape or form: Kinesiology.
What is Kinesiology?
Kinesiology is essentially the study of movement. Being a highly research-based profession, it focuses on the correlation between human movement and its impact on their health and wellbeing. People may not have heard about kinesiology so much, but it is one of the most essential disciplines taught, as its area of study is not only confined to the field, but it is part of our everyday lives and possibly the most overlooked necessity that we have: being able to move without the fear of our body collapsing on itself. So, one could say Kinesiology is directly related to understanding the fitness of a human being.
The discipline of Kinesiology converges upon several objectives that are considered to be its backbone:
- Improving body posture and alignment
- Increasing joint mobility
- Improving muscle strength and endurance
- Coordination, control, and balance
- Respiratory and sensory reeducation
These objectives are a part of every subfield that branches out from this particular discipline and constitute the very idea that kinesiology sets out to teach.
What are the Main Kinesiology Specializations?
Kinesiologists work in numerous industries, as their work is not limited to a specific profession. Everyone needs to inculcate an aspect of Kinesiology in their lives, no matter how small it may be. A kinesiologist can specialize in any of the following three fields:
Fitness and Nutrition
Anyone who knows or has played any sport understands the importance of Fitness and Nutrition. It is a Kinesiologist’s job to make sure that athletes stay fit, combining the best possible nutrition with regular conditioning to keep them in peak physical and mental condition. Fitness and Nutrition play an integral part in our daily lives, even if one doesn’t play sports. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and associated disabilities. Physical and mental health are highly correlated, so the importance of fitness and nutrition cannot be overstated.
Exercise Science
This includes trainers, coaches, or sports teachers who determine what exercise regime fits best for athletes playing different sports. Athletes from different sports have entirely separate fitness and conditioning programs to adhere to, and even the smallest of margins can exponentially increase or decrease their performance levels. For instance, a kickboxer may be required to keep their body fat at 9-12%, requiring an extremely lean physique with minimal fat for increased mobility and endurance. Conversely, a rugby player needs to have a bulked physique, as the sport is extremely high contact and requires immense strength training. Both programs will account for different eating and training habits, helping to achieve the desired results for athletes to excel in their specific professions.
Kinesiology and Physical Therapy
A Kinesiologist doesn’t just help athletes, they also help regular people maintain their physical and mental health through massage, therapy, and other methods. This specialization emerges the theoretical with the practical application, as they work closely with patients to find out the person’s exact needs.
Highest Paid Kinesiology Jobs
For those of you who are still pondering on the question “what is Kinesiology?”, a look at the different jobs for a kinesiologist will answer it for sure. Have you ever had a back spasm and had to go to a licensed professional? Ever practiced and worked out for a sport with the help of a trainer? Yep, that is what a Kinesiologist does. Just because it is not known by its actual term, it doesn’t mean there are no career prospects in this field. A Kinesiologist is extremely vital (even a necessity)in certain professions, and they get their due in full. Here are some of the highest-paid Kinesiology jobs:
Kinesiology Degree Admission Requirements
While every university has a different criterion for admission, there are a few general guidelines that need to be fulfilled to apply for a Kinesiology degree in the first place:
Bachelors:
- IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80
- Academic Transcript, minimum GPA 2.5
Masters:
- IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 85
- Minimum GPA 3.0
- GRE score
- Reference letters (at least 2)
- Personal Statement
These guidelines are followed by all universities with a kinesiology program. Keep in mind that these are not all the requirements, so be sure to check in with the university’s specific requirements in addition to the general ones.
Best Kinesiology Universities in the World
Kinesiology is offered by many institutes around the world, but some of those stand out for their extensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and hands-on training facilities. These are the top universities for Kinesiology if you want to study abroad:
Tuition Fee for Kinesiology Degree
Kinesiology is not exactly an inexpensive degree. The average tuition fee for Kinesiology ranges from 10500 – 20500 USD per year. However, countries such as Canada have cheaper programs on offer which would cost around 5500 USD per year. Not too bad for a profession that could go on to pay a six-figure annual salary.
For people who like keeping their health in check, and research on how to constantly improve it, Kinesiology might just be what you’re looking for. Not only will you be able to understand the intricacies of your health better, but you will also develop the capability to help others looking to do the same for their health. It isn’t too far-fetched to think that being a Kinesiologist can qualify as a noble profession. After all, you are impacting people’s lives by helping them be in their best physical and mental state.
