I'm often approached with questions about my profession . Does a kinesiologist treat injuries? Do they provide sports massages? What do they specialize in? Whether you're thinking about consulting one or even becoming one, here's a summary of everything you need to know about this little-known health professional!
What is a kinesiologist?
In fact, the word kinesiology comes from the words "kinesi," which means movement, and "logy," which means science. Kinesiology is the science of movement. A kinesiologist is a health professional specializing in physical activity who uses movement for prevention, treatment, and performance. All our treatments are carried out using physical activity, and our goal is to help you discover the benefits of an active lifestyle by including the joy of movement.
Personal trainer, kinesiologist, same job?
A kinesiologist can be a personal trainer, but a personal trainer is not a kinesiologist! The main difference lies in the training. We have, at a minimum, a university-level bachelor's degree that is recognized and awarded by several universities in Canada and eight in Quebec. The personal trainer has the training they choose to pursue.
In addition, we are affiliated with the Fédération des kinesiologues du Québec, which oversees the practice of this profession and requires its members to have recognized training, continuing education credits, and adhere to a code of practice and ethics. Several employers and insurers recognize this health professional and reimburse our services.
What does a kinesiologist do, where does he work?
Thanks to their training, kinesiologists are also able to work with populations with specific needs or physical limitations, such as the elderly, pregnant women, athletes, children, and people suffering from diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or specific cardiovascular conditions. We carry out physical fitness assessments, the development of physical activity programs, the promotion and counseling of the practice, the management of programs at both the personal and professional levels, and research in the field of physical activity and health.
Since our fields of action are multiple, we can be found in hospitals, CLSCs, private or multidisciplinary clinics, fitness centers or with sports teams.
Why consult a kinesiologist?
Because...
you want to start or resume physical activities;
you have any special requests or limitations;
you are sedentary and want to get healthy without rushing;
you are recovering from an injury and want to regain strength;
you have a sporting goal to achieve;
you simply like to move, and you want to do it efficiently and safely!
Pssst, all the programs in our monthly health box are designed by a kinesiologist, it's the perfect solution for working out in your living room!
To find a kinesiologist in Quebec, consult the directory right here: https://www.kinesiologue.com/annuaire
VALÉRIE CHOUINARD-AUDETTE, KINESIOLOGIST
A kinesiologist is a physical activity professional. Professional sounds serious, maybe a little too serious? However, I'm far from being an Olympic athlete. I practiced figure skating for a fifteen years before turning to running and triathlon. What motivates me? The desire to push myself physically and overcome my fears.
