Kinesiology is the study of human movement. It’s an interdisciplinary field that covers many aspects of the human body's physiological and biomechanical functions. Graduates of kinesiology programs have a unique set of skills that can be applied to various fields.
Kinesiology majors are equipped with knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics and an understanding of the importance of exercise and physical activity for health and wellness. Here are 11 perfect potential careers for kinesiology grads.
1. Personal Trainer
Personal training is a popular career choice for kinesiology graduates. Personal trainers work with individuals or small groups to develop personalized fitness programs that cater to each person's unique needs and goals. They assess clients' fitness levels, set realistic goals, and create exercise plans to help clients achieve their desired outcomes.
Personal trainers must have excellent communication skills to motivate clients to stick to their exercise plans. Additionally, you must be certified to be a personal trainer. If you want to get started or are unsure what to do, try finding the cheapest personal training certification, and start from there.
2. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists work with individuals with injuries or chronic conditions that limit mobility. They design and implement customized rehabilitation plans to help clients regain strength and mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Physical therapists must have excellent communication skills and be able to work with a wide range of individuals, from children to the elderly.
3. Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists study how the body responds to exercise and physical activity. They design and implement exercise programs for individuals and groups and research the effects of exercise on the body. Exercise physiologists must have excellent analytical and research skills and strong communication skills to explain the results of their research to clients and colleagues.
4. Fitness Director
Fitness directors oversee the day-to-day operations of fitness centers and gyms. They are responsible for hiring and training staff, creating exercise programs, managing budgets, and ensuring the facility is clean and safe for clients. Fitness directors must have excellent organizational and leadership skills and knowledge of fitness equipment and programming.
5. Sports Medicine Physician
Sports medicine physicians are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of sports-related injuries. They work with athletes of all ages and levels, from weekend warriors to professional athletes. Sports medicine physicians must have a medical degree and specialized training in sports medicine.
6. Biomechanist
Biomechanists study the mechanics of human movement, including the forces and torques generated during physical activity. They use this knowledge to design and improve equipment and to develop exercise programs that reduce the risk of injury. Biomechanists must have excellent analytical skills and knowledge of physics and engineering principles.
7. Strength and Conditioning Coach
Strength and conditioning coaches work with athletes to develop strength, power, and speed. They design and implement exercise programs tailored to each athlete's sport and position. Strength and conditioning coaches must have excellent knowledge of sports science and be able to motivate and inspire athletes to achieve their full potential.
8. Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists help individuals regain their ability to perform daily activities, such as dressing and cooking, after an injury or illness. They develop customized treatment plans that improve clients' fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and overall physical function. Occupational therapists must have excellent communication skills and be able to work with individuals of all ages.
9. Exercise Equipment Designer
Exercise equipment designers use their knowledge of biomechanics and engineering to design and develop new and innovative exercise equipment. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 3D models of their designs, test prototypes, and work with manufacturers to produce the final product. Exercise equipment designers must have excellent analytical skills and knowledge of materials science and engineering principles.
10. Wellness Coach
Wellness coaches work with individuals to help them achieve their health and wellness goals. They create customized plans that focus on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and other areas of health and wellness. Wellness coaches must have excellent communication skills and can motivate and support clients to make positive changes.
11. Ergonomist
Ergonomists study the interaction between humans and their work environments. They design and modify workspaces and equipment to improve comfort, safety, and productivity. Ergonomists must have excellent knowledge of human anatomy and physiology and engineering and design principles.
Find Your Perfect Career
Kinesiology graduates have many potential career options, from personal training to research science. Before choosing your career, consider the personal trainer certification costs and other schooling you may need. The skills and knowledge gained in a kinesiology program apply to many fields and industries, and kinesiology graduates have the opportunity to impact the lives of individuals and communities positively.
